Held on October 1st at Smith Hill, a 739-acre working forest in northern Benton County, this half-day gathering features expert-led discussions and a guided field tour focused on climate-adaptive forestry. Attendees will explore how this diverse property — spanning legacy oak habitat, mixed-conifer stands, and active timber production — is being managed to build resiliency in the face of an uncertain climate future. Led by longtime Guild members Shane Hetzler and Mark Miller, the tour will highlight practical strategies for planning on challenging sites, with opportunities to spot the property's semi-resident elk herd. A social hour in Corvallis will follow, providing a platform for idea sharing and community building among Guild members and forestry professionals.
Meeting Location: Our meeting spot has moved. It's just one block from the original location, but please note the change. We will meet in the free parking lot on 1st Street behind the Super 8, between Harrison and Tyler.
Parking Location:
Please arrive early – we will leave promptly at 1:00 PM. Vehicles will depart for Smith Hill at 1:00 PM sharp, and we won't be able to wait for late arrivals. We encourage you to arrive by 12:45 PM to park, check in, and get settled.
Agenda:
1:00 PM – Depart for Smith Hill
1:25 PM – Welcome, introductions, and Smith Hill history & overview
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM – Field Tour
4:00 PM – Arrive back in Corvallis
After – Optional happy hour at Squirrels – 21 and over
Continuing Education: Continuing Education Credits are pending from the Society of American Forests and The Wildlife Society
Meals & Refreshments: We will provide coffee and snacks at the beginning of the event. Please bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated as we explore Smith Hill.
Attire: Closed-toed, sturdy shoes are required. Poison oak is present on-site, so long sleeves and pants are recommended.
Weather: Event will proceed rain or shine; please bring appropriate gear.
Accessibility: We will walk up to 2 miles on rock and dirt roads with uneven terrain.
