Our Future Forests workshop set for Oct. 4 in Grand Rapids

GRAND RAPIDS — An upcoming free workshop in Grand Rapids aims to equip attendees with the knowledge and resources to support healthy and resilient forests.

Our Future Forests is 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, at Minnesota North College-Itasca. Refreshments and lunch will be provided. Pre-registration for the event is required by Friday, Sept. 12.

The event is supported by several environmental and governmental organizations, including the Itasca and Hubbard County soil and water conservation districts, Minnesota Forest Association and Minnesota Women's Woodland Network.

Speakers at the workshop will cover climate-ready woodlands, building a forest and planning for resiliency, stewardship planning, pollinators, wildlife and forest pests. The event also includes a walking tour of the University of Minnesota's North Central Research and Outreach Center's forest.

"Our way of life in northern Minnesota depends on our forests and woodlands," Itasca SWCD said in an email about the event.

"They are sources of habitat for wildlife and natural beauty, help keep our water and air clean, and play an important economic role through timber, recreation, and tourism.

" ... Our Future Forests Workshop is open to all regardless of whether you own 100 acres, 1 acre, a small backyard, or live in an apartment! We are all part of the forest community."