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Easton forestry demonstration rescheduled: to be held Saturday, September 26, in Easton

AMHERST, Mass. (Sept. 9, 2009) -- A free public informational event and field walk showcasing forest stewardship and conservation practices now eligible for funding through the United States Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) will be held on Saturday, September 26, from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon, at the Ames property on Main Street in Easton.

If you’ve been wondering how to find professional advice in defining your own vision of forest management, and if you’ve been waiting for financial assistance to help you reach your forest management goals, this demonstration event is the perfect opportunity to have your questions answered.

The public is invited to see examples of several forest management practices chosen to enhance the aesthetics of woodland typical of the region, improve tree and forest vigor and productivity, and improve wildlife habitat.

Pre-registration is not required, but is recommended and appreciated. Those who register in advance will receive a free copy of either “A Woodlot Owner’s Guide” or “A Guide to Invasive Plants in Massachusetts” (landowner’s choice; each a $5 value) at the event on September 26th.  To register or for more information, call Marcheterre Fluet, Massachusetts Forest Stewardship Program Associate, Berkshire-Pioneer RC&D, 413-256-1201 or email: marcheterrefluet@berkshirepioneerrcd.org. The rain date for this event is Sunday, September 27. If in doubt, call 413-256-1201.

The program will begin with a brief introduction to the history of the property, and the forest management plans that have been developed by the Ames family with the guidance of Consulting Forester, Phil Benjamin. NRCS conservation staff will describe financial and technical forestry assistance now available through the federal Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and the Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program (WHIP).

A Service Forester from the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation will provide information on the Forest Stewardship Program, Chapter 61 tax programs, and the new Massachusetts Forestry Initiative. After these brief presentations, Phil Benjamin will lead a guided walk along well-maintained trails, explaining the past, present and planned forest management on the property.

Directions: Parking for the demonstration event will be in the field behind the NRT Farmers’ Market. The entrance to the field is on the north side of Main Street, east of Longwater Pond and just west of the North Easton Post Office. Follow the road through the field to the flagged parking area at the edge of the forest. The program will begin under the canopy. Water and snacks will be provided.

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