The Pike County Chapter of the Alabama TREASURE Forest Association will host a “Women Forest Landowners Workshop” on Aug. 17 at First Baptist Church of Troy.

Although the workshop is billed as a “landowners” workshop, Claire Murphy, Pike County TREASURE Forest treasurer, said the workshop is open to all women who have an interest in forest management.

“More women are becoming involved in and have an interest in forest management,” Murphy said.

“This workshop is designed especially for them.”

The workshop fee is $10 and includes a luncheon featuring a variety of homemade salads and desserts. Informational materials will be available and drawings will be held for door prizes.

“We ask those who would like to attend to make reservations by calling 566-1213 before noon on Aug. 15, because we need to make plans for the luncheon,” Murphy said.

Registration on Aug. 17 will begin at 8 a.m. in the First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall.

The workshop sessions will begin at 9 a.m. with “Timber Theft” by Tony Chandler of the law enforcement section of the Alabama Forestry Commission.

“Timber theft is a big issue,” Murphy said. “For those who know how to do it, timber theft is relatively easy and it is widespread. Timber theft is something all forest landowners need to know about.”

At 10 a.m., Anna Haigler of Haigler Forestry and Wildlife Management will discuss land management plans with the participants.

“To be effective as a forest landowner, you have to have a well thought-out plan,” Murphy said.

“Anna will give excellent advice on plan development.”

After lunch, the focus will be on different agencies and how they can help forest owners.

Randy Hale from the National Resource Conservation Service, Robert Brown from the Pike County Office of the Alabama Forestry Commission and Grant Lyons from the Pike County office of the Alabama Cooperative Extension Office will discuss the many ways that their offices can provide information and services to forest landowners.

The “Women Forest Landowners Workshop” will conclude the Deborah Huggins Davis’ story.

“Deborah will tell the story of how she inherited forestland and how she has learned to manage it,” Murphy said. “Her story is interesting, enlightening and inspiring. It will be a great way to close out the workshop.”