Eastern Virginia landowners can learn more about actively managing their forest lands during the fall Forest Landowners’ Retreat, to be held Sept. 6-8 at Airfield Conference Center in Wakefield.  Topics will include forest management planning, pine silviculture, wildlife management, forest health, estate planning and more.

“This program provides a great introduction to forestry and forest management issues, especially for those new to land ownership,” said Jennifer Gagnon of Virginia Tech’s Forest Landowner Education Program.

“We use a combination of classroom and field sessions, taught by experts, to get participants fully engaged in learning,” said Ellen Powell of the Virginia Department of Forestry.  “The weekend retreat format also allows people to share their experiences with other landowners.”

The cost for the retreat, which covers meals, lodging and materials, is $60 per person or $120 per couple lodging dorm-style, or $160 per couple lodging hotel-style. A commuter option with no lodging is available for $40 per person or $80 per couple.

To register online or download a brochure, visit www.forestupdate.frec.vt.edu. The deadline to register is Aug. 23.  For more information, contact Jennifer Gagnon at 540-231-6391 or jgagnon@vt.edu.