Conservation workshop for landowners held in Alexandria

April 18, 2024 by Dave Schwarz

ALEXANDRIA, Minn.  — Landowners had the opportunity to learn more about conservation practices available to them during a recent presentation by local experts. 

Led by Pheasants Forever Farm Bill Biologist Kasey Jenc, the event was co-sponsored by Viking Sportsmen Inc. and held Tuesday, March 19, at the Douglas County Fairgrounds. 

The workshop focused on a variety of conservation program options and opportunities in addition to habitat management options with program-specific requirements. Details of the state’s Walk-In Access program that allows public access for hunting on private lands were also discussed. 

Landowners also were able to share successes and challenges that they have experienced on their own projects. 

“That’s one of the best things about these types of gatherings. If somebody has a question or a difficulty, there’s a good chance there’s somebody in the room who’s been through something similar already and can help out,” Jenc said. “It’s a great chance for everybody to network and learn from the real-world experiences of others.”

Jenc was joined by other conservation professionals, including Cory Walker of the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Andy Rice with the Douglas County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD), Shawn Papon of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), and Precision Agriculture Specialist BJ Werk of Pheasants Forever. 

About 20 landowners attended the workshop. Jenc said she plans to host similar events every two years or so. Jenc is based in the SWCD office in Alexandria and serves Douglas County and the surrounding area. 

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