On July 26, 2017, the Fillmore Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) will be hosting a field day to explore the benefits of using fire for vegetation management at Forestville State Park, 21071 County 118, Preston, Minn. The event is being held in partnership with MN DNR, MN Tree Farm Association, MN Forestry Association and High Point Realty. The tour will begin at 6 p.m. with a light supper being served beforehand at 5:30 p.m., provided by High Point Realty. Those attending will benefit from the expert knowledge of foresters and fellow landowners. Presenters include Mark White (Park Manager), Jim Edgar and Jake Froyum (DNR Foresters), and Mitch Gilbert (Private Forestry Consultant). Topics include comparing regularly burned areas with those that have not been burned, evaluating the benefits burning has for local wildlife, creating a firebreak and understanding the permitting process.
This is a fun and informational opportunity for anyone interested in forestry, prescribed burning, the great outdoors, or local forestry projects taking place within our area. Anyone who wishes to enjoy a fun and educational walk with beautiful views is encouraged to come!
• Note: Clothing and shoes (closed toe) appropriate for hiking through woodland terrain is encouraged. The hike is about ¾ mile long and some is uphill.
• Also note: State park one-day permits will be provided to attendees at no charge.
Directions: From the intersection of State Highway 16 and Fillmore County Road 5 south of Wykoff, drive about four miles south on County Road 5 and turn east on County Road 118 to the park entrance. Continue east on County Road 118 to the picnic shelter parking area about one mile from the park entrance. The bridge on the east side of the park is closed, so enter from the west from County Road 5.
Contact the SWCD for more information at (507) 765-3878, ext. 3, or go to www.fillmoreswcd.org.