WSU’s On-line Forest Management Courses Kick Off This Week

Washington State University Extension Forestry will kick off their 2026 Coached Planning Stewardships Shortcourse Wednesday.

WSU’s Joshua Cardin said this eight-week program is geared for small forest landowners, to help them create a forest management plan for their properties.  He added with the exception of the in-person field day May 23rd, the program takes place on Zoom, allowing forest landowners across eastern Washington to easily participate.

“And that field day, we're going to do some forest inventory, stuff that you need that hands-on application to learn," Cardin said.  "The other eight classes that are online are going to be taught by specialists from the DNR and other forestry agencies.  Each night is a different topic that helps you create a forest management plan that fits your specific goals for your forest.  So, whether that's protecting against wildfire, improving wildlife habitat, this eight-week course covers everything from the ground to the crown of your forest.”

Classes Will Help Prepare Landowners For Wildfire Season

Cardin added they will also provide insight when it comes to accessing cost share programs and how to be considered for tax benefits.  He said with the way 2026 is shaping up, this course will be even more important.

“With the lack of snow we got, we're going to be seeing some drought possibility and definitely at higher risk in wildfire," he pointed out.  "And this Shortcourse covers both that drought risk and that wildfire risk.”

The on-line classes take place Wednesday afternoons starting at 2 p.m.

Click Here to learn more or to register.

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