[Sust-mar] Woodlot walks to learn how to manage the natural forest

[Wild Flora]

March 10& 17: Learn how to manage the natural forest

Nova Scotia woodlot owners and silviculture contractors are invited to participate in an “on-the ground” learning experience focused on identifying vegetation in the Acadian Forest to help them become more familiar with what their forest contains and how selection harvesting can help achieve multiple forest values. From 12:30 pm to 4:30 pm on Saturday March 10 and Saturday March 17, Picea Forestry Consulting and North Nova Forest Owners Co-Op Ltd. will host woodlot walks in the Tatamagouche area of Colchester County and in the Pugwash area of Cumberland County.

The woodlot walks are free and are being presented with funding from the Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources. Each walk will be of similar content but will be offered in different locations on different woodlots. 

The walks will help build an understanding of the natural Acadian Forest. They will also show how basic understanding of the ecology of the Acadian Forest helps forest managers improve forest health, growth, and diversity and how to implement appropriate methods in an ecologically responsible manner. 

These two woodlot walks will also emphasize common tree and shrub identification to help woodlot owners identify what their forest contains and how to use the Provincial Forest Ecosystem Classification Vegetation Type Guide. In addition, questions that will be answered during these sessions include: What species are known as indicator species on certain site and soil conditions? What species are commonly found in association with one another? How do I know what species are suitable to grow on certain sites? How do I recognize growth potential? How do I recognize past human-caused and natural disturbances? How can natural disturbance patterns and processes of natural mortality be mimicked through partial harvesting activities? How can I take advantage of available silviculture subsidies to help meet management objectives? 

To register, or for additional information on these programs, please call 902-527-1222or email piceaeducation at gmail.com. Participation is limited and registration is required. Spaces will be given out on a first-come,first-served basis.