Woodland owners can build skills for caring for their trees by taking Washington State University Extension Forestry’s Forest Stewardship Coached Planning course.

This course teaches owners of wooded property how to assess their trees, avoid insect and disease problems, enhance wildlife habitat, improve wood quality, reduce fire risk, and take practical steps to keep their woods on track to provide enjoyment or even income for years to come. During the course participants will develop a personalized Forest Stewardship Plan, which qualifying landowners can use to lower their property taxes or gain access to cost-share programs. Whether it’s a few wooded acres or a larger forest tract, landowners with all sizes of property and with all types of goals will benefit from this course.

The course will be held Saturdays from 8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. from March 1 through April 8, including a field trip on April 1. The course will be held at Skagit Valley College, Friday Harbor.

The cost is $185 if registered before March 1 ($215 on or after) and pre-registration is required. CTo register or learn more, visit http://forestry.wsu.edu/nps/events/cpsanjuan/ or contact Ian Fawley, WSU Extension Forestry at (425) 357-6023.