FARMINGTON – Woodland owners and those who hope to own one are invited to a series of meetings to find out more about good forest management.

Meetings have been scheduled from 7 to 9 p.m. Feb. 14, 28, March 7, 14 and 21 at Mt. Blue High School, with a field trip planned on March 11.

Approximately one third of the woodland in Maine, or 5.5 million acres, is owned by thousands of individuals and families. It is used mainly for personal enjoyment and recreation.

The ownership also represents a significant part of the natural resource that is important to the state. Whether it is quality of life, clean air and water or habitat for wildlife, the woodland plays an important role in its well-being.

There are times when the best thing to do is to leave it alone and let it grow; however, even if the landowner is not interested in a commercial harvest, some cutting of trees can help prepare the woodlot for a healthy future.

The meetings will attempt to address some of the issues. There is a $10 charge for materials. The course will be canceled after the first night if less than 10 people are registered.

The sessions are jointly sponsored by the Small Woodland Owners Association of Maine, the University of Maine Cooperative Extension Service, SAD 9 Adult and Community Education program, the Franklin County Soil and Water Conservation District, the USDA-Farm Service Agency and the Maine Forest Service.

For more information, contact Bob Leso at 474-3499, 778-2000 evenings or [email protected].