The Northwest Illinois Forestry Association (NIFA) is delighted to host Matt Pustejovsky, Chairman of the Illinois Tree Farm Committee, at its annual dinner meeting on Tuesday, March 19th, at 7 pm. The event will take place at the Mount Carroll Church of God, 816 S. Clay Street, Mount Carroll, IL. Following a hearty dinner featuring Arnold Farm pork and beef, prepared by the local 4H group, Mr. Pustejovsky will present an overview of the Illinois Tree Farm Program, discussing the enrollment process and briefly reviewing the sustainability standards of the American Tree Farm System (ATFS) used for program eligibility.
Matt Pustejovsky, along with his family, serves as stewards of 48 acres of land in Mercer County, Illinois, primarily managing the property for merchantable native hardwood trees. While the forest historically comprised an oak/hickory ecosystem, it has been gradually transitioning to more mesic species. Matt utilizes overstory thinning, prescribed fire, and augmentation planting of oaks to reverse this trend. Additionally, he actively combats invasive plants such as bush honeysuckle, multi-flora rose, and barberry.
To attend this insightful presentation and enjoy a delicious dinner, please make reservations by Tuesday, March 12th. The fee for the dinner and program is $20 for NIFA members and their guests or $25 for non-members. Without a reservation, the fee is $30. Conveniently register online by clicking on the REGISTER button on the event page. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights into forestry and conservation practices from a knowledgeable speaker.
