ONLINE — A webinar designed to raise awareness about smart strategies for farming in sensitive ecosystems—particularly around ponds and lakes—will take place from 12 noon to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, November 27. Registration by Tuesday, November 26 is required.

Hosted by Penn State Extension’s Center for Agricultural Conservation Assistance Training, the event is designed for agricultural conservation professionals, environmental educators, agricultural advisers, watershed organizations and anyone interested in soil and water conservation. 

Ponds and lakes are a common feature of the landscape in Pennsylvania. Although they occur naturally in the region, many ponds and lakes have been constructed for various purposes. Regardless of origin or intended use, management of a pond or lake can present an individual landowner or community organization with complex and difficult management decisions. 

The webinar will provide agricultural conservation professionals with an overview of lake and pond ecology and management, aquatic plant control, and nutrient and sediment management. 

Participants will learn how to assess environmentally sensitive areas, understand their ecological significance and implement best practices to minimize risks. 

The Pennsylvania State Conservation Commission, through the Clean Streams fund, partially funds this program. 

Penn State Extension offers the event free of charge. 

More information is available at www.extension.psu.edu/farm-ponds-and-lakes.