You are invited to join SEOWIG for a tour of Dave and Pam Schatz’ Tree Farm located three miles from Tuppers Plains, Meigs County, Ohio. Dave is a retired ODNR service forester and long time SEOWIG member. He along with service foresters Perry Brannan and Cameron Bushong will guide us along trails observing various forest management practices. Mature stands of Virginia pine were clear cut in 1999. Several acres were replanted to loblolly pine while most of the area was left to regenerate to native hardwoods. We will observe management practices that have been carried out in the form of thinning, corrective pruning of hardwoods on mainly oak and cherry, and most recently crop tree release. Growth responses will be noted. Other subjects covered will be white oak mortality, what is a crop tree, wildlife management considerations, aesthetics, as well as forest access trail establishment and maintenance.
In addition, for those interested, Pam will show what they have done with extensive plantings of hosta and lilies. The hosta number close to two hundred plants with nearly thirty varieties. Deer control will be discussed with regard to the hosta and lilies.
This event is free and open to everyone. The tour begins 1:00 pm on Saturday, June 25, and will last roughly 2 hours. Visit www.seowig.weebly.com for directions and more information.