Huron Pines is offering a FREE Conservation First Responder Program to landowners looking for assistance with managing their land in the 11 counties of Northeast Michigan.

The Conservation First Responder Program is made up of a team of volunteer natural resource professionals that will assist landowners with managing their land.  Huron Pines has recruited foresters, wildlife biologists, and soil scientists to serve as the first responders. 

The first responders will literally “walk the land” with landowners and address any concerns they have about land management.  In addition to this service, the first responders will also help landowners create a management plan to meet their goals.  They will cover topics such as timber removal, invasive species, stream bank erosion, and wildlife food plots.  They will also provide information on cost-share incentive programs available in Michigan that can help landowners cut the costs of implementing their management plans.

Similar programs were once available through the DNR and USDA Forest Service.  However, due to recent budget cuts, agencies are having difficulty meeting the demand for services.  Huron Pines hopes to supplement the need for this service in its 11-county service area.

The Conservation First Responder Program will be available to the public beginning April 1, 2009, and will run through the spring, summer, and fall.

If you are interested in participating in the Conservation First Responder Program, contact Chris Homeister at Huron Pines for more information.