Family-owned forests are vital to the economy and quality of life in the Inland Northwest. These lands are critical for wildlife habitat, timber supply, water quality, and many other values. Unique skills are required of foresters and other natural resource professionals who help family forest owners manage their property. The Family Foresters Workshop is designed to strengthen the skills of consulting foresters, state-employed service foresters, and other natural resource professionals who work with family forest owners. It serves as a forum to provide updates on emerging technology and knowledge applicable to family forestry.

This year's program will be held at the Coeur d'Alene Inn (located off Interstate 90 at the Highway 95 exit in Coeur d'Alene). Topics include: forest carbon management and monitoring; new research on improving planted tree seedling survival on family forests; soil disturbance and productivity changes associated with timber harvesting; forestry apps for smartphones and tablets; habitat for bull trout and cutthroat trout on forest streams; and the annual family forest economics/policy update.

Program can accommodate up to 100 people. Registration forms are available at local U of I and WSU Extension Offices, and should be returned by Jan. 11, 2013. $85 pre-registration fee ($95 after Jan. 11) includes lunch and refreshments.