Forest thinning field day

The Universidy of Idaho Extension will host a forest thinning and pruning field day on Saturday, Oct. 22. Co-sponsored by the University and the Idaho Department of Lands, the program will teach how to properly thin a forest, and how doing so can promote growth while helping combat disease and fire.

Thinning and pruning the trees also encourages adaptation, which is critical for conifers in northern Idaho where the bark beetle has been rearing its ugly little head as of late.

The field day will consist of two parts: a presentation and a field trip. During the field trip portion, participants will visit a properly thinned stand and learn how to properly use pruning tools with a strong focus on chainsaw safety.

The program will be held at the Bonner County Fairgrounds in Sandpoint. It will start at 9 a.m. and conclude by 5 p.m. There is a $20 registration fee, and those wanting to participate should pre-register by Friday, Oct. 14, To register, contact the University of Idaho Extension Office at (208) 263-8511 or download a registration form at: http://www.uidaho.edu/extension/forestry