The Indiana Department of Natural Resources will offer open houses at numerous state forests on Oct. 22, 23 and 24.
During the events, Hoosiers have the chance to learn more about outdoor recreation available at state forests and how the properties’ professional foresters work to manage the properties for long-term forest health.
Locally, the Jackson-Washington and Selmier state forests open house will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24, at the Jackson-Washington State Forest office, which is 2.5 miles east of Brownstown. That’s just east of the Jackson County Fairgrounds on State Road 250. Call 812-358-2160 for information.
“These open houses provide Hoosiers with a chance to receive first-hand information about how state forests provide diverse wildlife habitat and recreational opportunities,” said John Seifert, state forester. “They also allow us to receive valuable feedback from our neighbors and users about state forest management — I encourage everyone to participate.”
A guided hike will be offered at 5 p.m. during each open house. Attendees who want to go on the hike should meet at the forest office.
Jackson-Washington State Forest encompasses nearly 18,000 acres in Jackson and Washington counties in the heart of southern Indiana. The main forest and office area are located 2.5 southeast of Brownstown on State Road 250. This part of the state contains unique topography known as the “knobs.” The majority of the land that now makes up Jackson-Washington was purchased by the state of Indiana in the 1930s and 1950s. The Heritage Trust program, which uses funds from the sale of the environmental license, Division of Forestry funds generated from portions of timber sales, and assistance from other conservation partners has made possible the acquisition of additional state forest lands.
In addition to attendees being able to ask questions and comment, Hoosiers can submit written questions or comments at on.IN.gov/forestry-comments.
Property staff members also are often available during business hours, which are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. See dnr.IN.gov/forestry/properties for contact information.
The DNR Division of Forestry go promotes and practices good stewardship of natural, recreational and cultural resources on Indiana’s public and private forest lands. This stewardship produces continuing benefits, both tangible and intangible, for present and future generations.