The Trees Forever organization is partnering with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and other agencies to bring a field day to the Port Louisa Wildlife Refuge on Friday. The event is called “Buffers, Birds, Bees, and Beyond,” and according to Field Coordinator Hannah Howard, it’s a chance for landowners and farmers to come together and learn about different options to help improve their property. Topics to be covered include riparian buffers, pollinators, wildlife habitats, invasive species, and agroforestry.

Agroforestry is a way of using trees to improve farming practices, such as riparian buffers which improve water quality around streams and rivers, or providing shade to livestock to prevent heat stress. Howard feels field days like this one are important to show people in the agricultural field some of the practices that can help improve their land and make it sustainable for future generations. The field day runs from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Friday, October 7th. It’s free, though registration is required before Tuesday, October 4th.