Owen-Putnam State Forest to host open house events

People interested in how Indiana's State Forests operate can share their views at a series of open houses this spring.

Throughout the year, open houses will be held at the following state forests (SF) and state recreation areas (SRA): Clark SF/Deam SRA, Ferdinand SF, Greene-Sullivan SF, Harrison-Crawford SF, Jackson-Washington SF/Starve Hollow SRA, Martin SF, Morgan-Monroe/Yellowwood SF, Owen-Putnam SF, Pike SF, Salamonie River/Frances Slocum SF and Selmier SF.

At each event, the DNR Division of Forestry will provide information about recreational activities, major projects, forest resource management and planning. Attendees can talk directly with DNR personnel or submit written comments. Some open houses will include a tour of facilities or a woods walk.

"These open houses provide Hoosiers with a chance to receive first-hand information about how state forests provide diverse wildlife habitat, forest products and recreational opportunities," State Forester John Seifert said. "They also allow us to receive valuable feedback from our neighbors and users about state forest management."

Area events and open houses are:

-- Owen-Putnam State Forest, Wednesday, April 13 from 3-7 p.m. at the property office. The office is five miles west of Spencer and less than a mile north of State Road 46, Call (812) 829-2462.

Property staff members are also available during normal business hours. Go to dnr.IN.gov/forestry for contact information.

-- Morgan-Monroe/Yellowwood state forests, Saturday, April 9 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Training Center at Morgan-Monroe State Forest. Training Center is off State Road 37, approximately six miles south of Martinsville. Call (765) 342-4026.