The Spring Mountains ECHO

Annual Soroptimist Plant-a-Pine Day, Saturday, May 17

Kathy Speck

Soroptimist International of Greater Las Vegas, in conjunction with the U.S. Forest Service, Southwest Trailhikers, Spring Mountains Association, and Mirage Voice Volunteers, sponsors the Annual Soroptimist Plant-A-Pine Day. The 12th annual event will be held on Saturday, May 17, 10 a.m. to 12 noon at Kyle Canyon Campground on Mt. Charleston.

Over 200 Woods Rose, 40 Mountain Mahogany, and 30 Ponderosa Pines will take root on this day in the soils of the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area of the Toiyabe National Forest. Remember to car pool, bring drinking water and sturdy gloves, and wear comfortable shoes. Pack a lunch if you wish to picnic when the planting is finished.

This year we will also be checking the drip water system that was installed last year, thanks to the Mirage Voice Volunteers. It has been helping to water over 400 Ponderosa Pine seedlings. The system needs to be checked for leaks and repaired. A new line will also be installed.

The Woods Rose and Mountain Mahogany that are being planted are from seeds collected by the

Spring Mountains Association in the Fall of 1995 in the Kyle Canyon area. The Spring Mountains Association has taken on the seed program, collecting seeds from vegetation growing in the Spring Mountains.

Keeping Your Forest Home Healthy And Fire-safe

A free workshop for Mt. Charleston residents and landowners will be given on Saturday, May 10, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., at the Mt. Charleston Library in Kyle Canyon. There will be an on-your-own break for lunch. Topics will include:

• Local Forest Conditions
• Common Tree Problems
• Insect and Disease Pests (and their control)
• Recognizing Hazardous Trees
• Proper Tree Care
• Fire Hazard/Safety Issues
• Defensible Space Planning
• Fire-Resistant Landscapes

Seating is limited; call 486-5123 to register. Sponsored by Nevada Division of Forestry and U.S. Forest Service.