Alcona Conservation District
  • WELCOME!
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    • Meet the Board...
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    • Pictures of Trees and Plants for Sale
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    • The Referrals Process
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    • Understanding a Timber Contract
  • Hunting Access Program (HAP)
    • Habitat Improvement Funding
  • Deer Habitat Improvement Program
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  • IMPORTANT CONTACT NUMBERS
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UPCOMING EVENTS - Watch this page for dates and times!

2021 Spring Tree Sale
In progress now! Click on the 2021 Spring Tree Sale tab on your left. Pick up day is Saturday, May 8, 2021 between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the fairgrounds in Lincoln.



Past Events....

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FALL MUSHROOM HUNT OCTOBER 17, 2020
10:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

(Masks and Social Distancing Required)

The Alcona and Iosco Conservation Districts are hosting a fall mushroom hunt, Saturday, October 17 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at a forest on Bischoff Road in Iosco County near Tawas City. Anderson Road is the nearby cross street. Once in the area, follow the signs.

Sister Marie Kopin, a mushroom specialist from the Michigan Mushroom Hunter's Club, will be on hand to educate and identify collected mushrooms. During past fall hunts, over 80 different varieties have been found...many of which are considered edible.

Dress for the weather! The hunt will take place rain or shine but the sorting and identification of mushrooms will take place under a roofed pavilion. For your convenience, there are Port-a-Jons on site. There is no charge for the event which is open to the public. This is a family-friendly event and children are encouraged to participate. Masks and social distancing required.
For more information, call (989) 724-5272.
Bring a paper bag for collecting specimens and a small pocket knife to cut mushrooms.


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The Michigan Association of Conservation Districts Applauds Gov. Whitmer for Establishing July 17 as Michigan Conservation District Day
 
Executive Proclamation Celebrates 83rd Anniversary of Key Conservation Law, Local Protection of Michigan’s Natural Resources
 
EAST LANSING, MI — The Michigan Association of Conservation Districts (MACD) applauds Governor Gretchen Whitmer for establishing July 17, 2020 as Conservation District Day. In Michigan, there are 75 Conservation Districts that provide vital services and assistance to Michiganders, playing a crucial role in the protection and preservation of natural resources on Michigan’s working lands.
 
“The common mission of Michigan’s Conservation Districts is to protect and enhance the soil, water and habitat resources on working lands across the states’ 83 counties. said Gerald Miller, President of the Michigan Association of Conservation Districts and Chair of Kent Conservation District’s Board of Directors. Conservation Districts have worked hand-in-hand with Michigan’s farmers and producers for 83 years to accomplish this mission. The Governor’s Proclamation announcing July 17th, the anniversary date that authorized the establishment of Michigan’s Conservation Districts, informs all Michigan citizens about the role of their local Conservation District to help protect and enhance these resources now and into the future.”
 
The Proclamation honors the 83rd anniversary of Public Act 297 of 1937, Michigan’s first Soil Conservation District law, enacted as a response to the Dust Bowl and extreme drought across the country. In the last 83 years, the scope and responsibility of Michigan Conservation Districts have grown far beyond their original focus of agricultural soil erosion to include invasive species management, forestland habitat management, water quality and quantity, conservation education, recycling, farmland protection, and more.
 
“This recognition of Michigan Conservation Districts highlights their importance in providing Michiganders with quality programs and assistance to better manage and conserve our natural resources, said Lori Phalen, MACD Executive Director. “In their 83-year history, they have addressed many significant conservation challenges by providing trusted, local assistance working directly with land owners and managers to positively impact our natural resources, including the reduction of rain water runoff, soil erosion and nutrients into Michigan’s lakes, streams and rivers. “
 
Michigan Conservation Districts deliver several state and federal programs including the Michigan Agriculture Environmental Stewardship Program and the Qualified Forest Program; and are the local partner with the United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resource Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS). In 2019 Conservation Districts in partnership with the USDA-NRCS delivered over $30 Million dollars in direct funding to Michigan’s land owners to address natural resource concerns on their land.
 
Visit macd.org to learn more about Michigan Conservation Districts and their programs and services.
 
Michigan Association of Conservation Districts (MACD) is a non-profit organization that represents the interests of Michigan Conservation Districts and works to strengthen Districts through leadership, information and representation at the state level.
 
Michigan’s 75 Conservation Districts (CDs) are the local providers of Natural Resource management services -- similar to your local fire, police, health, and school services. They are also your neighbors, dedicated to helping their fellow Michiganders conserve their lands and waterways so our environment can be as clean, healthy, and economically robust as possible.

Tire Recycling Event Saturday, July 18, 2020
Recycle Alcona County will hold a tire recycling event on Saturday, July 18, 2020 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the ARA Site (fairgrounds) in Lincoln. First 5 tires are free; each additional tire is $1.

CANCELLED - SPRING MUSHROOM HUNT
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THE SPRING MUSHROOM HUNT SCHEDULED FOR MAY 30, 2020, HAS BEEN CANCELLED DUE TO THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC.

WATCH THIS WEBSITE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE FALL MUSHROOM HUNT SCHEDULED FOR SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2020.



OAK WILT PRESENTATION

Eric Brandon, CF, District Forester for Alcona and Iosco Conservation Districts, will present a discussion on Oak Wilt.

WHEN: Tuesday, January 14, 2020 at 1:00 p.m.
WHERE: Parks Library, 6010 N. Skeel Ave., Oscoda MI, (989) 739-9581

Eric will be speaking to the AuSable Audubon Society.
Public welcome.



TIMBER TAX WORKSHOP

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WHEN: TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2019 - 5 P.M. TO 7 P.M.


Susan Metcalfe, of Metcalfe Forestry, will be presenting a Timber Tax workshop covering capital gain treatment of timber harvest, cost basis of timber, timber depletion allowance, proper tax record keeping, and forest property tax abatement. The program is free and open to the public and will be held at the Alcona Natural Resource field office, 320 S. State St. Harrisville, MI.

Susan Metcalfe is a forester, certified timber tax consultant, and co-owner of Metcalf Forestry of Grayling. She is a graduate of the University of Texas with a B.A. in Biology/Chemistry, and of Michigan Technological University with an M.S. in forest manangement.



2019 Alcona Conservation District Annual Meeting/Banquet & Directors Election
October 9, 2019  -  6:00 p.m.
Harrisville Township Hall, 114 S. Poor Farm Rd., Harrisville



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FALL MUSHROOM HUNT OCTOBER 5 2019
The Alcona and Iosco Conservation Districts are hosting a fall mushroom hunt, Saturday, October 5 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at a forest on Bischoff Road in Iosco County near Tawas City. Anderson Road is the nearby cross street. Once in the area, follow the signs.

Sister Marie Kopin, a mushroom specialist from the Michigan Mushroom Hunter's Club, will be on hand to educate and identify collected mushrooms. During past fall hunts, over 80 different varieties have been found...many of which are considered edible.

Dress for the weather! The hunt will take place rain or shine but the sorting and identification of mushrooms will take place under a roofed pavilion. For your convenience, there are Port-a-Jons on site. There is no charge for the event which is open to the public. This is a family-friendly event and children are encouraged to participate.

Michigan Mushroom Hunter's Club

August 20-24, 2019 - In the Campbell Building
Alcona Conservation District at the Fair
Visit us at the Alcona County Fair located at 854 N. Barlow Rd. in Lincoln
Talk to our forester, Eric Brandon. Meet our board members. Find out about all the free services available to the community! See what we're working on!
Get to know Alcona Conservation District!


Spring Mushroom Hunt

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The Alcona Conservation District is hosting a spring mushroom hunt on Saturday, May 25, 2019 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at a forest on Bischoff Road in Iosco County near Tawas City. Using GPS, Anderson Rd. is the cross street or use GPS addresses 1561 through 1799. Sister Marie Kopin, a mushroom specialist from the Michigan Mushroom Hunter's Club, will be on hand to educate and identify collected mushrooms. Dress for the weather! Port-a-Jons on site. No charge, open to the public.

NO REGISTRATION IS NEEDED - JUST SHOW UP, RAIN OR SHINE!

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FRUIT TREE GRAFTING CLASS

Wednesday, April 17, 2019
3 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Harrisville Branch, Alcona County Library

312 W. Main Street, Harrisville

Workshop fee: $25 per person (advance registration required) includes three semi-dwarfing apple rootstocks, apple grafting wood of your choice, and all necessary supplies. Call (989) 724-5272 or stop in at 320 S. State Street, (US-23) in Harrisville to register.

Required: A signed safety statement and waiver of liability by ALL participants
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Alcona Conservation District 2018 Annual Meeting

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WHEN: Wednesday, December 5, 2018 from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
WHERE:  Harrisville Township Hall, 114 S Poor Farm Rd., Harrisville, MI
We will be holding our Annual Meeting and Election. Dinner begins at 6 p.m. Dinner tickets are $10.
SPEAKER: Kurt Dalman, Natural Resource and Conservation Services Technician. Kurt will discuss NRCS programs and cost shares available to landowners.
Please RSVP on or before November 26, 2018.
Drawing for door prizes will be held.




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Timber & Taxes Workshop

A Timber and Taxes workshop will be held on Saturday, November 10, 2018  from 1 pm to 3 pm at the Alcona Conservation District Conference Room, 320 S. State St., Harrisville, MI. 48740.
Presentation by SUSAN METCALFE of Metcalfe Forestry of Grayling, MIchigan

FIND OUT: $ How U.S. tax laws favor timber land ownership - what the big guys know! $ How to handle income from a timber harvest - the right species of forms.
$ How to start keeping the right records. $ How to cut your property tax bill with state incentive programs!

RESERVE YOUR SEAT NOW! CALL (989) 724-5272!
FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.



INVASIVE SPECIES PRESENTATION
Wednesday, November 7 - 7-8 p.m.
Curtis Township Library, 4884 Bamfield Rd., Glennie, MI
Eric Brandon, CF, will discuss invasive species and the risks they pose to the Northern Lower Michigan area.  This program is free to the public. Call (989) 724-5272 for further information. No registration needed.


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Michigan Mushroom Hunter's Club

Fall Mushroom Hunt
WHEN:  Saturday, October 6, 2018 - 10:30 A.M. - 1:00 P.M.
WHERE: 1561-1799 Bischoff Rd., Tawas City

The Alcona Conservation District is hosting a fall mushroom hunt on Saturday, October 6, 2018 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at a forest on Bischoff Road in Iosco County near Tawas City. Using GPS, Anderson Rd. is the cross street or use GPS addresses 1561 through 1799. Sister Marie Kopin, a mushroom specialist from the Michigan Mushroom Hunter's Club, will be on hand to educate and identify collected mushrooms. Dress for the weather! Port-a-Jons on site. No charge, open to the public.

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Hunting Access Program Presentation
We Do the Work - You Get the Check!
When:  Friday, September 21, 2018, 6-7 p.m.
Where: Harrisville Branch of Alcona County Library, 312 W. Main St. (M-72), Harrisville

FREE Program: Eric Brandon, CF, Conservation District Forester, will explain how the program works and answer your questions, whether you are a resident or absentee landowner in Alcona County.
Call (989) 724-5272 to reserve your seat. Light refreshments will be served.


ALCONA CONSERVATION DISTRICT AT THE FAIR
WHEN:  August 14-18, 2018
WHERE: Alcona County Fairgrounds, 854 N. Barlow Rd., Lincoln, MI (across from Kris Mart)


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Spring Mushroom Hunt
WHEN:  Saturday, May 26, 2018 - 10:30 A.M. - 1:00 P.M.
WHERE: 1561-1799 Bischoff Rd., Tawas City

The Alcona Conservation District is hosting a spring mushroom hunt on Saturday, May 26, 2018 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at a forest on Bischoff Road in Iosco County near Tawas City. Using GPS, Anderson Rd. is the cross street or use GPS addresses 1561 through 1799. Sister Marie Kopin, a mushroom specialist from the Michigan Mushroom Hunter's Club, will be on hand to educate and identify collected mushrooms. Dress for the weather! Port-a-Jons on site. No charge, open to the public.
Wednesday, April 25, 2018
Fruit Tree Grafting for Alcona Schools Agri-Science Class  
1:25 p.m - 3:15 p.m.
Alcona High School

Fruit Tree Grafting Classes
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 - 
NEW DATE:
Monday, April 23, 2018
5 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Harrisville Branch, Alcona County Library

312 W. Main Street, Harrisville

             
Saturday, April 21, 2018 - CANCELED!

Workshop fee: $25 per person (advance registration required) includes three semi-dwarfing apple rootstocks, apple grafting wood of your choice, and all necessary supplies. Call (989) 724-5272 or stop in at 320 S. State Street, (US-23) in Harrisville to register.

Required: A signed safety statement and waiver of liability by ALL participants
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Cancellation Policy and Safety Waiver
COLLECTING APPLE WOOD FOR GRAFTING & BUDDING
Winter Tree I.D. Hike
Saturday, February 24, 2018 from 1 - 3 p.m.
Ingall's Property (
a forest on Bischoff Road in Iosco County near Tawas City. Using GPS, Anderson Rd. is the cross street or use GPS addresses 1561 through 1799.)
Alcona-Iosco forester Eric Brandon will lead you through a fascinating tour of the winter woods and teach you to recognize common tree species even when they have no leaves.



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Alcona Conservation District and the Forestry Assistance Program present a free program!

TIMBER AND TAXES WORKSHOP

WHEN: Saturday, December 9, 2017 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon
WHERE:  Harrisville Branch of Alcona County Library, 312 W. Main Street, Harrisville



FALL MUSHROOM HUNT - OCTOBER 14, 2017
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Sister Marie Kopin, Mycologist, instructs attendees at the 2017 Fall Mushroom Hunt.

ALCONA CONSERVATION DISTRICT ANNUAL MEETING

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Forest Invasives

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Tuesday, September 26, 2017 at 1:00 p.m., Harrisville Branch of Alcona County Library. Host: Sunrise Gardening Club.


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Mushroom Hunt May 20, 2017


SPRING MUSHROOM HUNT!
WHEN:  Saturday, May 20, 2017 - 10:30 A.M. - 1:00 P.M.
WHERE: 1561-1799 Bischoff Rd., Tawas City

The Alcona Conservation District is hosting a spring mushroom hunt on Saturday, May 20, 2017 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at a forest on Bischoff Road in Iosco County near Tawas City. Using GPS, Anderson Rd. is the cross street or use GPS addresses 1561 through 1799. Sister Marie Kopin, a mushroom specialist from the Michigan Mushroom Hunter's Club, will be on hand to educate and identify collected mushrooms. Dress for the weather! Port-a-Jons on site. No charge, open to the public.

PEAR TREE GRAFTING DEMONSTRATION

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WHEN: Tuesday, May 2, from 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.
WHO: Alcona Conservation District with co-sponsor Harrisville Institute for Cultural Learning
WHERE: Harrisville Institute for Cultural Learning, 307 S. State St (US23), Harrisville 48740
WHAT:  Field grafting demonstration of pears onto dwarfing quince rootstock by Joe Lukasiewicz and Eric Brandon.
Open to the public, this is a free demonstration of "field grafting" of pear scions onto dwarfing quince rootstocks to convert wild seedling quince shrubs to pear trees. Instructors will cover cloning of trees by grafting, safety concerns when grafting, different budding and grafting techniques, and post-grafting care of trees. The process to be demonstrated can be used to propagate other fruit and nut trees, shrubs, and some flowers like roses. No pre-registration required -- just show up!
Contact information: Alcona Conservation District, (989) 724-5272 or in person at 320 S. State St., (US-23) Harrisville, MI 48740


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 FRUIT TREE GRAFTING WORKSHOPS

Saturday, April 15 10:00am-2:00pm at Parks Library (Oscoda Public Library), 6010 N Skeel Avenue, Oscoda Township on the old Wurtsmith Airforce Base;

Wednesday, April 26 4:30-8:30pm at the Harrisville Branch of the Alcona County Library, 312 W. Main St., Harrisville; and

Saturday, April 29 10:00am-2:00pm at the Harrisville Branch of the Alcona County Library, 312 W. Main St., Harrisville.

Workshop fee: $25 per person (advance registration required) includes three semi-dwarfing apple rootstocks, apple grafting wood of your choice, and all necessary supplies.
Required: A signed safety statement and waiver of liability by ALL participants



FRUIT TREE PRUNING DEMONSTRATION
​ Tree_pruning_4-7-17_Reel.mp4
  The Alcona Conservation District and the Harrisville Institute for Cultural Learning are sponsoring a fruit tree pruning demonstration on Friday, April 7, 2017 beginning at 6:30pm.  The program will be held on the property of J. B. Cook located on the west side of US-23 just north of the Black River Bridge (there will be signs). We will be pruning semi-dwarf apple trees. The demonstration is for backyard growers or hobbyists and not intended for those with commercial interest or high density plantings. The program is open to the public. There is no charge to attend. 

Alcona Adult Book Club - Emphasis on Science
February 21, 2017 - 12:00 noon, Harrisville Branch, Alcona County Library
"1491" - Discussion of the Americas before European discovery.  Forester Eric Brandon will explore how Native Americans managed the land and the forests.  Public welcome. Request a copy of the book "1491" to read prior to attending this discussion.

Alcona Conservation District and the Forestry Assistance Program present a free program!

TIMBER AND TAXES WORKSHOP

WHEN: WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 7 - 5:00 TO 7:00 P.M.
WHERE:  HARRISVILLE BRANCH OF ALCONA LIBRARY, 312 W. MAIN ST., HARRISVILLE


Presentation by SUSAN METCALFE of Metcalfe Forestry of Grayling, MIchigan

FIND OUT: $ How U.S. tax laws favor timber land ownership - what the big guys know! $ How to handle income from a timber harvest - the right species of forms.
$ How to start keeping the right records. $ How to cut your property tax bill with state incentive programs!

RESERVE YOUR SEAT NOW! CALL (989) 724-5272!
FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.




Fall Mushroom Hunt
Saturday, October 8, 2016, 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. at 1561-1799 Bischoff Road, Tawas City. Use the interactive map at the right for directions. Sister Marie Copeland, a mycologist from  the Michigan Mushroom Hunters Club, will be on hand to guide and educate. Dress for the weather!

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Click here for Michigan Mushroom Hunters Club

OAK WILT & OTHER INVASIVES WORKSHOP

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Thursday, September 8, 6:00 p.m.
Iosco RESA Building, 27 North Rempert Rd., Tawas City
Phillip Korjeha, DNR Forest Health Specialist, will discuss Oak Wilt and the implications it has for our forests.


Invasive Species Workshop
When:  Friday, August 26, 2016    2:00 p.m.
Where: Alcona County Library Harrisville Branch
Invasive species are species that are non-native to the ecosystem under consideration, and whose introduction causes or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm or harm to human health.

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WHEN:  Friday, August 12, 2016 -
4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
WHERE: Harrisville Branch,
Alcona County Library
PUBLIC WELCOME!


Would you like to earn up to $25 per acre yearly for allowing public hunting on your land?  Whether you are a full-time resident landowner or an absentee landowner, you can take advantage of this opportunity! Monique Ferris, Hunting Access Program Coordinator for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources will be on hand to explain the program and answer questions. You must have at least 40 acres There is no liability to the landowner Mandatory or self check-in for hunters Limit to number of hunters allowed on land Variety of lease options for landowner
Please call (989) 724-5272 to reserve your seat. Admission is FREE!
Light refreshments will be served.



 FOREST HEALTH AND OAK WILT
Hosted by the Alcona and Iosco Conservation Districts in Partnership with the Forestry Assistance Program


WHEN:  Tuesday, May 24 from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
WHERE:  Alcona County Library, Harrisville Branch, 312 W Main St., Harrisville

This is a FREE forest health presentation open to the public geared toward landowners, foresters, loggers and anyone with invested interests in oak forest types.
PHILLIP KURZEJA with the DNR Forest Resources Division will be giving an in-depth presentation on oak wilt, including the science behind the disease, signs and symptoms for detection, treatment options, and the latest updates.

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FRUIT TREE PRUNING DEMONSTRATION
APRIL 8, 2016




When:  Friday, April 8, 2016, 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Where:  Orchard of JB Cook, US-23, 7-1/2 miles north of Harrisville, just north of Malaski Road where Black River crosses US-23.
Admission: Free





CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE!

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TWO FRUIT TREE GRAFTING SEMINARS..
When:  Saturday, April 9, 2016 - Harrisville
When:  Saturday, April 16, 2016 - Oscoda
Where:  Harrisville: Harrisville Branch of Alcona County Library, 312 W Main, Harrisville
Where:  Parks Library (Oscoda Public Library), 6010 N Skeel Avenue, Oscoda Township on the old Wurtsmith Airport Base.
Time: Both sessions run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Admission: $25 per person



collecting apple wood

TIMBER TAX WORKSHOP
When: Saturday, March 5, 2016, 10 a.m.- 12 noon
Where:  Harrisville Branch, Alcona County Library -
312 W Main St, Harrisville, MI 48740

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If you own forested property and you have harvested timber within the last three years, you won't want to miss this workshop! If you're thinking of harvesting timber or purchasing forested property, this workshop is for you!
Money earned from a timber harvest is taxed differently than earned income, and many factors affect the taxes you owe. Don't overpay - get educated and save!
Susan Metcalfe of Metcalfe Forestry LLC and the Alcona Conservation Distrivct will present this informative workshop.

Call (989) 724-5272 for additional information and registration. Attendance is free, but seating is limited.

Improving Private Landowner Revenue and Reducing Costs

When: August 29th 2015, 10 a.m.
Where: Parks Library, 6010 N Skeel Ave, Oscoda, MI 48750

If you own forested property and would like to better understand how your property can be less of a financial drain and more of a recreational paradise, you won't want to miss this event. This lecture will focus on various assistance programs, tax exemption programs, and methods of managing forested lands in order to pay the bills and enjoy the landscape all at once. 
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Oct 17th Mushroom Hunt Cancelled



Invasive Species Lecture

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When: July 18th 2015, 10 a.m.
Where: Parks Library, 6010 N Skeel Ave, Oscoda, MI 48750 


Invasive species are some of the most important threats to the health of our forests in Michigan and abroad today. Join us and learn how to ID and control some of the most common invasive species present in Michigan today.

Wildlife Habitat from the Backyard to the Forest

¨ When: Wednesday July 15th, 6pm

¨ Where: Alpena Community College (Oscoda Campus) 5800 N Skeel Ave, Oscoda Charter Township, MI 48750

¨ Who: All are welcome to attend this event

¨ Cost: This event is free of charge

¨ Registration: Please RSVP with District Forester Andrew Beebe by  Friday July 10th by calling  (989) 335-1056

 

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Green Wood Budding

When: July 1st at 10 a.m.

Where: The Harrisville Institute of culture and learning across from the Alcona Conservation District 320 US 23 Harrisville, MI


Greenwood budding allows growers to propagate hard-to-graft trees like walnut and heartnut.  Unlike fruit tree grafting which is done with dormant stock in early spring, greenwood budding is done during the growing season using new season wood.  This method can be used from late May to mid-July in Michigan. The demonstration will last approximately 1 hour. 

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Spring Mushroom Hunt

May 30, 2015,11 a.m.

Participants can expect to collect mushrooms and discuss ID characteristics with a Mycologist from the Michigan Mushroom Hunters Club. This event is free and open to the public. Please dress for the weather. Use the interactive map to your right to determine directions.

Non-Timber Forest Products

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When: May 16th 2015, 10 a.m.
Where: Parks Library, 6010 N Skeel Ave, Oscoda, MI 48750

If you have ever thought that the only thing worth a buck growing in your woods were the trees, think again. This lecture will highlight some common and some more obscure methods of turning a profit without selling stumpage.


Tree Pruning Basics

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About the class

Apple Tree Grafting

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1)    April 15th, 2015 at the Harrisville branch of the Alcona Library from 10-2 pm

2)    April 18th, 2015 at the Oscoda Parks Library in Oscoda, MI from 10-2 pm



Mushroom Cultivation Workshop

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When: Saturday March 14, 10 a.m.
Where: Parks Library, 6010 N Skeel Ave, Oscoda, MI 48750

Growing your own mushrooms can be fun, easy, and good for the forest. This workshop will introduce you to mushroom forest farming and give you the tools necessary to start your own mushroom farm.


Chainsaw Safety and Technique

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When: January 18th 2015 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: The IRESA building, 27 North Rempert Road,
Who: all are encouraged to attend
Cost: No cost to attend

To register for the event or for more details please call District Forester Andrew Beebe @ (989) 335-1056. Follow the link below to see the event flier.
Event Flier
Video

Forest Management 101

Click here to see news coverage of this event!
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When: Sat. December 13th, 10 a.m.
Where: Parks Library, 6010 N Skeel Ave, Oscoda, MI 48750


Join us and learn the basics of forest management, forestry, and silviculture. This event will briefly cover how foresters manage forests from start to finish and the ideology behind silviculture.




Timber Harvest and Property Management Day

(November 4, 2014, 10a.m. )
Join us for a tour of the Iosco Conservation District's 80-acre property. During this tour you will see an active timber harvest, learn about the long-term plan for this property, and have an opportunity to discuss the science behind sustainable forestry. 
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Timber and Tax Lecture

When: Oct 25th 2014, 1p.m.
Where: Alcona Co Library, Harrisville MI
Timber and tax flier

Fall Mushroom Hunt  (10/1/2014)
Where: The Ingalls property near Tawas City MI. Follow the direction link for google maps 

When: Oct 1st @ 10:30 a.m.

What to expect: Participants should expect to be on their feet for a few hours and should dress for the weather. Please bring a paper bag and a knife for collecting. We are asking for a $5 donation if you can donate.
Ask A Forester Day (8/16/2014)
Do you have questions about the state of the forest, forestry, trees etc? Come on out to Lumbermans monument on Saturday August 16th from 1-2 and lets talk forests!  
Water Quality Day! (8/19/2014)
Come out and learn about water quality related to agriculture and forestry. This event will take place Aug 19th from 12-4 p.m. at the Alcona Fair Grounds. If you would like to have your well water tested for free, please fill out the "Drinking Water Well Screening" form to the left.
Water Quality Day information
Water Sample instructions
Drinking Water well screening

Au Sable Watershed Open House
July 24th from 12-2 at the Greenbush Township Hall

Invasive Species Workshop
June 28th 2014

This event will take place 10 a.m. at the Oscoda Township Parks Library. We will spend most of the class indoors; however a brief field session will also take place a short drive away from the library. Please call District Forester Andrew Beebe @ (989) 335 - 1056 to register.

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May 23rd, 9 a.m.

Come join us on May 23rd and tour some of Alcona County's more impressive private, well managed, lands!

Lunch will be provided!

You can expect to learn about active forest management, cost share programs, wildlife management, and forest health.
event Flier
Directions
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This event will take place Wednesday, May 21st  @ 10:30 a.m at the Iosco Conservation Districts Ingalls property. Please see the directions link to your right ---------------------->

Please wear appropriate clothing, bring a knife and a bag, and bring a thirst for knowledge

Call (989) 335-1056 to register
Direction to the Hunt
Event Flier
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Saturday April 5th from 10 am - 1 pm. 

Read the article below!!

Pruning workshop article

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Thursday April 10th from 12 - 4 PM

And

Saturday April 12th from 10 am - 2pm

See Flier for Details

$25 dollars to attend. You must pre-register

Grafting Workshop flier
Cancellation policy: For cancellations made prior to the placement of the nursery order for rootstocks by the District, a date yet to be determined, a full refund will be given. For cancellations afterwards, $10.00 of your registration fee will be refunded ($15 retained to cover the cost of rootstocks and their shipping, and other incidentals).


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Mushroom Cultivation Workshop

Saturday March 29th 10a.m.- 12p.m.



Click here for details

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Eco-Ski (Cross Country) Event
When: Saturday January 25th 11a.m.
Where: Silver Valley Trail Head (Corsair Trails) Huron National Forest

Come on out and learn about the ecology of Pine/Oak forests. We will discuss current conditions, future possibilities, and threats to the forest's health.
For more details call District Forester Andrew Beebe at
(989) 335-1056 or email him at andrew.beebe@macd.org

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Mushroom Walk

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The Alcona/Iosco Conservation Districts are hosting a free mushroom identification hike. This event will feature the expertise of the Michigan Mushroom Hunters Clubs Sister Marie Kopin.

Where: Iosco Conservation Districts Ingalls Property. The property is located on Bishoff Rd. North of the intersection between Monument Rd. and Bishoff, just 10 minutes East of Tawas City. Signage will be posted at the intersection.

When: Saturday October 19th from 11am - 1pm

Registration: Please register for this event by Friday, Oct 11th by calling (989) 335-1056 or email andrew.beebe@macd.org

Invasive Species Seminar
Free Event

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When: Thursday, October 10, 2013 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.,

Where: Alcona County Library, Harrisville Branch, 312 W. Main St.,
Harrisville, MI 48740


Hosted by the Alcona Conservation District, will educate private
landowners about current and impending forest health threats and invasive plant
species that endanger Michigan's forests. In partnership with Alcona County Library,
U.S. Forest Service (USFS), and Sunrise Forestry Consultants.

• Speakers & Topics:

• Andrew Beebe & Don Krejcarek - Andrew: Alcona Conservation District &
Don: Sunrise forestry Consultants will discuss forest health threats posed by
Oak Wilt, Beech Bark Disease, Asian Longhorned Beetle, and Emerald Ash
Borer Mitigation techniques for dealing with these threats will also be provided.

• Sierra Patterson - Of the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), will detail invasive plant
species and the threats they pose to our native ecosystems. Sierra will also
discuss native species to establish, and invasives to avoid, for enhancing
diversity on privately owned lands.
All speakers are professionally trained in their respective field(s) and have the practical
knowledge and insight necessary to discuss a variety of forest health threats and
invasive plant species. All possess a 4-year degree (or higher) in a Natural Resource
related field.

Free informational handouts, coffee and know/edge. Any and all are welcome to
attend. Please bring/tell a friend!

Please Register! For this event by phone at (989) 335-1056 or by email to andrew.beebe@macd.org by Oct. 1st, 2013. If you need an accommodation to participate in this event, please let us know by September 25th, 2013. Visit www.alconaconservation.org or call the number above for more details.
All Programs and Services are offered on a non-discrimination basis without regard to race,color, nationality, religion, sex, age, marital status, or handicap


Tree Walk Around Oscoda

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Please Join Andy Beebe and Sunshine Love with the Iosco Conservation District for a walk around Oscoda’s neighborhoods.  They will be identifying and describing unique features about trees you see every day.

Where: Oscoda’s River Bank Park on River Rd. kitty corner to Oscoda Canoe rental

When: Sunday September 29th from 1-3 p.m.

Registration: Please register for this event by Friday, September 20th.  Call (989) 335-1056 or email andrew.beebe@macd.org

Forest Invasive Field Day

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Spring Tree Sale (2013)

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When - Tree pick up is Saturday, April 20th, 9am-1pm
Where - Alcona Conservation District & MSU Extension building,  320 S. State Street (US-23), Harrisville MI, 48740
Tree Order Deadline - Was Friday, March 22nd, 2013

Please visit the "Spring Tree Sale" tab to view the sale brochure and order form.  Order deadline is Friday, March 22nd, 2013. 
We look forward to seeing the look on your face as you take in that "new tree smell".  Our District Forester, John St. Pierre, will be on hand to field your tree planting questions.   

Improving Wildlife Habitat Through Active Management

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The Alcona Conservation District's "Forestry Assistance Program" (FAP) will host a FREE Outreach Event detailing several techniques private forest landowners can utilize to improve wildlife habitat on their land, through active management.  The topics and management techniques covered will focus heavily on common timber types found within Alcona and Iosco Counties.  Presenters will discuss various wildlife habitat(s), with an emphasis on jack pine ecosystems, oak dominated stands, and the benefits of early successional forests across the landscape.  Recommended native plants species to consider establishing, and invasives to avoid, to improve wildlife habitat will also be discussed. 

When:   Friday, April 26th, 2013
Time:     1- 5pm
                                                                                                                           Where:  Alpena Community College (OSCODA CAMPUS), 5800 Skeel Ave, Oscoda MI, 48750
                                                                                                                           Please Register: for this event by Wednesday, April 24th if you plan to attend.  Thank You!

                                                                                                                                                              Please Click the link below to view event details -

improving_wildlife_habitat_flyer.pdf
File Size: 226 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File

Improving Private Landowner Revenue and Reducing Costs

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When - Saturday, February 16th, 2013 from 12pm - 4pm
Where -  Robert J. Parks Library, 6010 N. Skeel Ave, Oscoda MI 48750

Hosted by the Alcona Conservation District, this FREE event will provide informational presentations about programs and land use techniques private landowners can utilize to improve revenue and reduce costs associated with Non-Industrial Private Forestland.  In partnership with Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), Metcalfe Forestry LLC, and Jacques Forestry, LLC - Huron Consulting. 

Soil Conservationist Bryan Zabel, and District Conservationist L.J. Donahue will discuss pertinent NRCS cost-share programs available to private landowners.  An explanation of  the Qualified Forest Program (QFP), Commercial Forest Act (CFA), and Timber Taxation laws by Bryce & Susan Metcalfe of Metcalfe Forestry LLC.  Tom Jacques of Jacques Forestry, LLC - Huron Consulting, will explain efficient methods of acquiring and or selling forested property. 

Everyone and anyone is welcome to attend and please bring a friend!  Free informational handouts, food, and knowledge will be provided.

Please register for this event by phone (989)724-5272 or by email to John.St.Pierre@macd.org  by February 13th, 2013.  If you need an accommodation to participate in this event, please let us know by February 11th, 2013.  Hope to see you there!!


Buying and/or Selling Forested Property

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Tom Jacques from Jacques Forestry, LLC - Huron Consulting, is seen here discussing the variables to consider when buying and/or selling forested property during our February outreach event.  Thank you to our presenters and to all of those who attended this event!  We look forward to the next educational outreach program.  

October Forest Visit

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Bryce Metcalfe of Metcalfe Forestry, LLC, leads the Forestry Field Seminar on September 22, 2012 on a private landowner's property.  Here he talks about regenerating Aspen following a sustainable timber harvest. Thanks, Bryce, for a great  day of education and information!

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320 S. State Street
PO Box 291
Harrisville MI 48740

District Manager: Janet Reins

Phone: 989-724-5272  FAX: 989-724-3707
email: janet.reins@macd.org

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