Prescribed Fire Workshop at Lake Paho on Feb. 9

MERCER COUNTY, MO — A workshop on how to effectively and safely use prescribed fire to boost wildlife habitat and reduce less desirable plant species will be offered beginning at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 9, at the Lake Paho Conservation Area in Mercer County. Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) staff will discuss the history of fire on the landscape, benefits from prescribed fire, planning, equipment and how to utilize resources from MDC and other agencies. Tips like how to organize burn teams and cooperatives will be offered. The workshop will begin with a classroom session. If weather permits, a prescribed burn will be conducted after the classroom session. Those wishing to participate in the hands-on demonstration should bring leather gloves and leather boots. The workshop will be held at the Lake Paho headquarters, which is 4.3 miles west of Princeton, Mo., on U.S. 136 and north on Fathom Street. The workshop is free and a lunch will be provided. But pre-registration is required by Feb. 6. To register or for more information, contact Scott Roy, MDC private land conservationist, at 660.359.5685, ext. 114