MDC offers prescribed fire workshop in Knox County

THIS CONTENT IS ARCHIVED
News from the region
Northeast
Published Date
01/13/2015
Body

EDINA, Mo. - The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is hosting a workshop for landowners who would like to learn how to effectively and safely use prescribed fire to boost wildlife habitat and reduce less desirable plant species. The workshop is from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 7, at Knox County USDA Service Center, 56187 State Highway 6 in Edina.

The workshop is free, however registration is required by Jan. 30.

MDC staff will discuss methods and techniques for implementing controlled burns, safety considerations, and proper weather conditions for conducting a burn. Plus, the workshop will cover creating a burn plan, and timing the burn based on landowner management objectives and landscape.

"This workshop is great for new or current landowners who would like to learn about using prescribed fire as a tool to improve wildlife habitat on their property," said MDC Private Land Conservationist John Pinkowski. "While uncontrolled wildfires can harm habitat and property, controlled use of prescribed fire can actually improve the health of natural ecosystems."

The workshop will begin with a classroom session. Weather permitting, a small demonstration burn will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. to give participants hands-on experience. Participants are encouraged to bring leather work boots, gloves, and clothing (cotton or wool, no synthetics) that covers arms and legs to wear for the demonstration burn.

For more information or to register for the workshop, contact Pinkowski at 660-397-2223, ext. 117.

For more information on MDC programs to assist farmers and boost nature on private lands, visit mdc.mo.gov/node/90.