Learn how to manage forestlands at the annual Forest Landowners Retreat in Appomattox April 26-28. The cost is $60 per person and $90 per couple. Fees cover meals, lodging and materials. Commuters are also welcome at the rates of $30 per person or $45 per couple. Registration must be received by April 12. To register, visit www.forestupdate.frec.vt.edu.

Here’s the press release from the Virginia Department of Forestry.

Virginia landowners can learn more about actively managing their forestlands during the 5th annual Forest Landowners’ Retreat.

This event will be held April 26-28 at Holiday Lake 4-H Educational Center near Appomattox.  Topics will include forest management planning, hardwood and pine silviculture, wildlife, forest health, invasive species and more.
“This program provides an introduction to forestry and forest management issues for those new to land ownership,” said Jennifer Gagnon of Virginia Tech’s Forest Landowner Education Program.

Ellen Powell of the Virginia Department of Forestry said, “The Appomattox-Buckingham State Forest is our interactive ‘classroom’ to get participants fully engaged in learning.  The weekend retreat format enables people to talk with other landowners as well as experts in the field.”

The cost for the retreat, which covers meals, lodging and materials, is $60 a person or $90 a couple. A commuter option is available for $30 a person or $45 a couple, for participants who wish to make their own lodging arrangements.

Sponsoring partners for the retreat are VDOF, Virginia Cooperative Extension and the Virginia Forest Landowner Education Program.  Additional support is provided by the Ballyshannon Fund.

To register online or download a brochure, visit www.forestupdate.frec.vt.edu. The deadline to register is April 12.

For more information, contact Jennifer Gagnon at 540.231.6391 or jgagnon@vt.edu.  Persons with disabilities who desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity may also contact Jennifer during the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations, no later than April 12. *TDD number is 800.828.1120.