As crops are being harvested, the leaves have all fallen off the trees and we prepare for the winter season, now is the time to start planning for those spring tree planting projects. Taking a little time to plan now can make the tree planting project go a lot smoother in the spring.
As a service to landowners and residents in the East Otter Tail Soil and Water Conservation District, the EOT SWCD offers assistance in planning for conservation tree planting practices such as field windbreaks, farmstead shelterbelts, living snow fences, riparian buffers, wildlife plantings, lakeshore stabilization, and general forestry practices. EOT SWCD staff can assist the land owner to develop a plan and determine what types of trees and shrubs are appropriate for their site, and how many trees would be needed to accomplish their desired goal. This planning assistance is done at no cost to the landowner, and in many instances landowners may be eligible for a variety of programs that provides financial incentives or cost-share to install these tree planting practices. The staff at the SWCD office can help determine if a landowner is eligible for one of these programs and assist them with the application process.
The EOT SWCD has recently started taking orders for the 2008 Annual Conservation Tree Program. The EOT SWCD also offers a variety of other service through the Conservation Tree Program including a tree planting service, tree planter rental, weed control fabric installation, and sprayer rental.
Individuals interested in more information, ordering some trees and shrubs, or requesting one of the other tree program services can contact the EOT SWCD at the Perham Ag Service Center located at 801 Jenny Ave. SW, Suite 2, Perham, MN, or by calling (218) 346-4260.
