2012 PEC Foxhunter's Forum 5/23
Informational Event-Challenge
Rex Linvile and associate visit FHC
On Wednesday 5/23/ 2012 47 members including Brian and Kay barquin, Acshah Henderson, Reynolds & Evie, Mark Thompson, Liz and Paul, Pattie, Helen Flor, Joy, Carolyn and Kenny Chapman, Sherry Buttrick and Forbes, Pat and Kay Buterfield, Bonnie Hanks, Kim Morton,Daron and Alison Beeney, Peter and Kip Holloway, Chris and Kim, Debbie Wright, Lynne Taylor, George Lindbeck, Anita Vere-Nicoll plus Diana Farrell and her father and husband Tommy Garland all came together at the Clubhouse in Free Union,VA for an important Forum on wildlife management and habitat preservation for all foxhunters and field sport enthusiasts. According to Stephanie Guerlain: "A very interesting talk on strategies for promoting wildlife on your land, and yummy fruit pies and coffee afterwards! Basically, you want to create "rough edges" wherever you can, e.g., don't mow right to the edge of tree lines or the edge of rivers/ponds, it's best to leave a 10' or more swath of "mid-level" brush grow up to create a tiered approach with some cover for wildlife - and use native plants whenever possible, and let rotting wood/dead trees remain standing or on the ground as much as possible to provide food and shelter for wildlife. Don't cut up those dead trees and haul them away, let them stand or lie where they are - birds love them! Different bushes promote bird and butterfly nesting - boxwoods are not used by any wildlife, oak trees are used by an abundant number of species. Milkweed plants promote monarch butterflies."
President Reynolds Cowles commented afterwards:
"Last night's event with the PEC was a very informative evening and many thanks to Pattie and BJ for setting it all up and bringing the desserts and coffee, and to the staff of PEC who did a great job. We had over 40 people and the information on wildlife habitat was well done and gave us all something to take home. Without a doubt the preservation of open spaces is critical to the future of our sport and all hunting, shooting and fishing pursuits. Let's hope that all of our members realize this and will join the PEC in their efforts to protect the Piedmont.
Link to "Frequently Asked Questions" about joining the Piedmont Environmental Council:
Butterfly Image: courtesy PEC
Report: Beth Sutton 5/25/2012
FHC won the MFHA North American Habitat Conservation Award for 2011. To read more about FHC and our club's role in habitat conservation go to :FHC in the Press
