For anyone who is interested in Pennsylvania wildlife and forests, the Western Pennsylvania Woodlands and Wildlife Conference scheduled for March 29 at the Four Points Hotel in Greensburg should prove interesting.

From 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., speakers from Penn State, the Pennsylvania Bureau of Forestry, and the Pennsylvania Game Commission will discuss management strategies to improve the value of wooded areas for wildlife, recreation, and timber. This conference is offered for landowners, land managers, foresters, sportsmen, or anyone interested in Pennsylvania's woodlands.

Dr. James Finley, professor at Penn State's School of Forest Resources, will begin the program by explaining problems created by poor forest management practices.

A team of foresters from private industry, the Westmoreland Conservation District and DCNR Bureau of Forestry, will discuss how good forest management can improve the woodlot for timber, wildlife and recreation.

Ben Jones, biologist with the Pennsylvania Game Commission, will show how the makeup of the wider landscape affects wildlife species.

To wrap up the morning session, Greg Hoover, Penn State Department of Entomology, will discuss introduced insect pests that threaten Pennsylvania forests.

Following a buffet lunch, participants may choose from one of three breakout sessions focusing on wildlife food and habitat, water and woods for wildlife, and the economics of forest land management.

Registration deadline is March 24. The registration fee is $35 and includes a buffet lunch and program materials. For a copy of the brochure and registration form, contact the Butler County Extension Office at 724-287-4761.

This material is submitted by Donna Zang, Extension director, and the staff of the Penn State Extension office at the Sunnyview Home complex.