Ramsey Resident - 2003 - November/December

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14 OAK WILT SUPPRESSION PROGRAM ADOPTIVE STRATEGY AND NEW RULES FOR 2004, EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2003 As a result of monitoring effectiveness of Oak Wilt Control Program for twelve years, the Department of Natural Resources has determined that a rate ofre-infection inside vibratory plowed lines is too high, indicated a need to adapt the control strategy. Vibratory plowing for root graft disruption continues to be the most important control strategy; removal of spore producing trees [SPT] and potential spore producing trees [PSPT] within the primary protection plow line is necessary for controlling Oak Wilt. To implement more effective control of spore production within plowed control zones, while recognizing homeowner's desire to preserve mature oaks, either of tow options can be selected: 1. Vibratory Plowing with Inspection - Primary and secondary plow lines installed, with 3 year prepaid annual inspection to detect additional infected trees, with homeowner responsible for removal before March 21. 2. Treat-to-the Line [removal or injection] - Remove all healthy but potentially susceptible [non- symptomatic] or symptomatic oal(s of same species as infected oaks [either Red/Pin or White/Bur Oak groups] within the plowed line to be removed after plowing. For more information about the Oak Wilt Control Program Guidelines, call Bruce Bacon at 763- 433-9813. OUTSTANDING CONSERVATIONIST AWARD Anoka Conservation District placed the nomination of the City of East Bethel for Minnesota Outstanding Conservationist Award. They are being applauded for their commitment to maintaining the quality and quantity of natural resources through such efforts as greenway planning, water quality improvement projects, wildlife habitat management, and open space protection. ACD feels that local government Winegar, Tim Landborg units that incorporate natural resources management into their planning, programs, and services deserve special recognition. The City of East Bethel has also advanced as the Area IV selection for Minnesota Outstanding Conservationist Award. The finalist will be announced at the MASWCD Annual Convention in December. EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR AWARD Chris Lord was recently nominated as Anol(a County Outstanding Employee. This will place him in contention with other nominees from around the state. This award, sponsored by the Board of Water and Soil Resources, will be presented to the winner at the MASWCD Annual Convention in December. Lord is being recognized for his outstanding contributions to soil and water conservation during the past year. His managerial and technical guidance, worl(ing relationships with many public and private agencies, and his ability to garner funds in tough financial times are qualities that the ACD's Board of Supervisors feels worth of recognition. ANOKA CONSERVATION DISTRICT ANNUAL TREE SALE The Anoka Conservation District is tal(ing orders for their annual tree sale to be held in the spring of 2004. Along with trees and shrubs ACD will also be offering prairie seed and combinations of wildflower and grass/sedge plugs (similar to bedding plants). The district is offering seed and plugs in their continued efforts to promote restoration of local ecosystems. The order form lists the native species that are for sale and is also a wealth of information on growth rates, soil, moisture and sun requirements. Twenty-three varieties of trees are offered for this spring sale. Trees and seed ordered through the District will be available for pick-up on April 24th at the Anoka County Fairgrounds. Call 763-434-2030 ext. 10 to get a complete order form mailed to you or an order form can be printed off their website at www.AnokaNaturalResources.com. The website also offers detailed descriptions of the trees and plugs that are being offered. In three words I can sum up everything I've learned about life. It goes on. - Robert Frost