By: Ryan Duey
Photos Courtesy of Clay County Conservation District
The Clay County Conservation District is hosting a special workshop on Thursday, November 6th, titled “Rangelands: Protecting the Best, Reclaiming the Rest.” The workshop will be held at the Clay County Events Center from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Sign-in will begin at 9:00 a.m.
Jessica Boeckman, District Director, said the workshop will cover many aspects of Rangeland Management.
“The workshop will cover several different facets of rangeland management, everything from woody encroachment, the threat of it, and how to control and manage it.”
“We will also go into what we can offer as a Conservation District, or what USDA can offer as far as cost share and that kind of thing.”
The morning and afternoon sessions will feature guest speakers, including KC Olson, Doug Spencer, and more. Attendees will also speak about establishing a Prescribed Burn Association in Clay County.
Boeckman said a recent study showed nearly a quarter of the Rangeland in Clay County is covered in woody encroachment.
“In Clay County, we have about 87,000 acres of rangeland.”
“In 2022, a study was done in Clay County, and about 20 to 25% of our rangeland is taken up by woody encroachment. That’s a huge loss in production for our producers.”
“We really want to bring to light that threat because we’re three years out from that study. So, it’s not getting any better, it’s only getting worse.”
The Rural Fire Chief of Woodson County, who worked a large wildfire that took place in his area, will speak. Highlighting how woody encroachment is creating an undefendable fire situation.
To RSVP, email or call Boeckman; registration is also available on the District’s Facebook page. A free catered lunch will be provided to those who register by October 30th.
Boeckman also wanted to highlight that there is still a $500 Bounty out for the largest Red Cedar in Clay County. The winner will be announced during their annual meeting in January.
