JEFFERSON — “Home Firewood Production Basics: From the Woodlot to the Woodshed” will be offered on April 9, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., at Hidden Valley Nature Center. This workshop will cover the basics of home firewood production including the selection of wood species, cutting a number of different diameters of wood, a variety of hand and mechanical splitting techniques, as well as storage/drying options for the homeowner.

Taught by Kirk Niese, a long-time low-impact forestry practitioner and instructor, this course was developed from Kirk’s “Home Firewood Production” talk given annually at the Common Ground Country Fair and designed to be an in-depth learning experience.

Persons who can demonstrate that they have taken a chainsaw safety course may practice bucking techniques. Safety-toe boots, cut-resistant pants or chaps, hearing and eye protection will be required. Those interested in that option should contact tim@midcoastconservancy.org regarding proof of chainsaw safety training. 

To register, go to https://www.midcoastconservancy.org/events-list/home-firewood-production-basics-from-the-woodlot-to-the-woodshed.

Midcoast Conservancy is a vibrant regional land trust that works to protect vital lands and waters on a scale that matters and to inspire wonder and action on behalf of all species and the Earth. The organization works throughout the Sheepscot River, Medomak River, and Damariscotta Lake watersheds. Midcoast Conservancy manages over 13,000 acres in 55 preserves and 95 miles of trails, including Hidden Valley, a preserve with cabin and outdoor recreation equipment rentals and a low-impact forestry program. Community members can get involved in the organization’s work as volunteers with water quality monitoring, habitat restoration, fish passage projects, forestry and oyster farming or outdoor recreation and education. For more information, go to www.midcoastconservancy.org or call (207) 389-5150.