Parsons Family Honored At Fall Forestry Festival

The Parsons family was honored for their commitment to sustainable forestry Saturday as part of activities at the 12th annual Fall Forestry Festival. The event was hosted by Kretz Lumber Company and included a day full of activities, seminars and awards. Dave Parsons, his son Curt, and grandson, Cody, were honored as legacy landowners for their efforts to work with Kretz on creating a healthy, sustainable forest environment.

The Parsons had a large stand of forest land near Lily that serves as a family gathering spot for all the generations. We use the land for everything, Curt Parsons said. It’s a great place for family time. But along with the recreational opportunities, the family has recognized the need for regular management, including logging, under a plan developed by Kretz forester Dennis Fincher. Our goal is always to manage it for future generations, Parsons said. We always try to do what is best for the land.

Other honorees were Dave Marsceau, Kronenwetter; the Duren Farm, Cazenovia; and Dennis Rezner, Wittenberg.

This year’s festival focused on forest management practices for improving wildlife habitat and featured an expert discussion on the topic.

Our Forestry Field Festival provides landowners an opportunity to gather and learn from not only all of the trained professionals in attendance, but also from each other. By sharing proper technique and strategy, landowners are better educated and empowered on sustainable practices, Troy Brown, president of Kretz Lumber Company, said. This festival is one of the tools we use to assist landowners in achieving their property goals while also educating attendees on woodlands management.

There was an entire day of hands-on forest activities, including exhibitions, learning stations, tours, discussions, trainings, guest speakers and a northwoods lunch. Other highlights included DNR stream shocking, cutting demonstrations, forest insect and disease discussions, horse skidding, and hayride tours.

Three generations of the Parsons family, from left, Dave, Cody and Curt, were honored at the Fall Forestry Festival.

Source: Antigo Daily Journal