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   The Cass Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) invites woodland owners, hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts to attend the 2nd Annual Woodlands for Wildlife Event on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at the Walker Area Community Center, 105 Tower Ave., Walker, MN. This FREE event focuses on practical ways to improve woodland habitat for wildlife while keeping forests healthy and productive for future generations.

   This year’s featured speaker is Dan Steward, retired woodland professional and former Forestry Management Coordinator for the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR). Drawing from decades of experience, Dan will share how he and his family manage their personal 40-acre woodland with multiple priorities in mind:

   • Enhancing habitat for wildlife such as ruffed grouse, white-tailed deer, songbirds, and other woodland critters

   • Improving overall forest health by encouraging a mix of tree species and age classes

   • Managing timber responsibly to provide income and help offset the costs of landownership for future generations

   The event will include a presentation, open discussion, and Q&A session with Dan, offering landowners the chance to learn strategies they can apply on their own properties—whether the goal is better grouse drumming cover, quality deer forage, or healthier woodlands for wildlife and recreation.

Schedule of Events:

   • 9:00–9:20 a.m. Check-in with free coffee and donuts

   • 9:30–11:00 a.m. Presentation, discussion, and Q&A with Dan Steward

   • 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. Free BBQ lunch and networking with fellow woodland owners

   “This event is a great opportunity for anyone who owns or enjoys woodland to hear real-world strategies for creating wildlife habitat while maintaining healthy forests,” said Ryan Carlson Cass SWCD resource conservationist. “Whether your passion is deer hunting, grouse hunting, bird watching, or simply leaving your woods better for the next generation, you’ll walk away with ideas you can use.”

   Registration is free but requested. To register, visit www.cassSWCD.org or text 218-833-2492 with your name, number of people attending, and any dietary restrictions.

   The Woodlands for Wildlife series is part of Cass SWCD’s effort to provide landowners with tools, knowledge, and resources to improve habitat, protect water quality, and sustain the long-term health of our northern forests.

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