FCFA hosts thinning workshop on April 22

The Franklin County Forestry Association will host an educational workshop related to thinning of pine trees at 9:30 a.m., Saturday, April 22.

“A number of factors determine when a pine plantation is ready to be thinned, including: Site productivity, planting density, genetics and weed competition,” Keith Whitehead, who serves as the Mississippi State University Extension Service’s Franklin County agent.

“A first thinning can affect the productivity and economics of pine plantations for the next 20 to 30 years, so it is imperative thinning be done at the right time.”

Whitehead said the workshop will be conducted on-site where landowners can view pine stands that have yet to be first thinned.

Dr. Curtis VanderSchaaf, a MSU Extension Forestry professor, will present information during the session to help forest landowners make good decisions related to thinning their timber.

The program is open to Franklin County Forestry Association members and a meal will be provided following the gathering.
“Members who plan to attend should pre-register no later than Tuesday, April 18 by calling the Extension Service office in Meadville at 601-384-2349 or visiting us at 20 Walnut Street in Meadville,” Whitehead added. “Directions to the site of the meeting will be available when participants pre-register.

“Forest landowners and other interests who are not members are encouraged to join the association and plan to attend this workshop.”

Annual FCFA membership fees are $15 for individuals and $20 for couples.

Registered foresters will earn one hour of Category A BORF CFEs and logging contractors will earn three hours of Category I PLM CLEs for attending this meeting.

Additionally, Whitehead said the Extension Service will, upon request, provide reasonable accommodations to anyone with disabilities or special needs who wants to attend the program.