LOOGOOTEE – Martin County residents looking to improve the health and value of their woodlands have a unique opportunity this winter. The Martin County Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) has announced it will fully sponsor the registration fees for local landowners to attend Purdue University’s acclaimed “Forest Management for the Private Woodland Owner” course.
The initiative aims to remove financial barriers for residents interested in forest stewardship, allowing them to enroll in the eight-week program free of charge.
The course is designed as a comprehensive introduction for those who own or manage forested acreage. Participants will gain insights into the long-term sustainability of their land, covering topics such as:
- Tree Identification: Learning the specific species native to Southern Indiana.
- Forest Biology: Understanding how woodland ecosystems function and grow.
- Timber Marketing: Navigating the complexities of selling timber responsibly.
- Wildlife Habitat: Enhancing the environment for local flora and fauna.
To accommodate different schedules and preferences, the course offers two ways to participate:
- In-Person (Dubois County): Sessions will be held at the Southern Indiana Purdue Agricultural Center (SIPAC). These classes run on Mondays from January 26 through March 16, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. EST.
- Virtual Participation: Landowners may also choose to attend the course online.
Space is limited to ensure a high-quality learning environment, with a maximum of 40 participants per session.
Martin County landowners interested in having their registration fees covered must contact the SWCD directly contact Brenda Norris at 812-295-3149 or email martinswcd@yahoo.com.
This program offers an essential foundation for anyone looking to be a responsible steward of their land, by partnering with Purdue Extension, who are bringing expert-level resources directly to the local community.
For those residing outside of Martin County or seeking additional details on accommodations and course brochures, please contact the local Purdue Extension office.
