The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will host a prescribed burn workshop 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 29, at the Trails West Regional Library, 432 N. Holden St. in Warrensburg. It's very important for those of us in the county and working in agriculture to be safe when it comes to getting rid of leaves, debree, and tree limbs. Prescribed burns are fires that help manage fields and woodlands to improve wildlife habitat.  One strong wind, and so much damage can be done.

That's why the Missouri Department of Conservation is having this big workshop in Warrensburg. This workshop is free and will interest landowners or property managers who wish to improve wildlife or grazing habitat on farms.  They aid in control of unwanted invasive species. The burns can boost native prairie or woodland plants that evolved with wildfires. Thinned cover or tender regrowth can also be beneficial food sources and travel areas for wildlife. But a prescribed burn always involves advance planning, established procedures and safety equipment.

The workshop will cover basic practical information for safely conducting prescribed burns. Participants will gain a familiarization with prescribed burning tools and techniques for habitat management. This course may be especially helpful for those managing property enrolled in the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP).

Landowners are required to attend this course to get a written burn plan from MDC. Light refreshments will be provided. Participants are urged to register for the free workshop by Jan. 27 by calling 660-747-8200, ext. 117.

Burningly yours,

Behka

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