The Monroe County Soil and Water Conservation District is hosting its first Conservation Forum this Saturday, Jan. 28, at Waterloo High School.

The event takes place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with attendance prizes awarded and free lunch offered.

Attendees can choose from several sessions geared toward farmers and non-farmers:

• “Establishing Wildlife and Pollinator Habitats” by Preston Chapman, Pheasants Forever

• “Managing Agronomic Challenges” by Nathan Johanning, U of I Extension Educator

• “Controlling Invasive Species” by Chase Seals, National Wild Turkey Federation

• “Water Quality and Conservation: Become a River Watcher” by Dr. Paige Mettler-Cherry and Dr. Danelle Haake, National Great Rivers Research and Education Center

• “Urban and Community Forestry” by Emily Ehley, Trees Forever

• “The Economics of Conservation” by Andrea Kohring, Precision Conservation Management

• “Navigating Land Values and Interest Rates” by Ron Lintker and Luke Fraley, Farm Credit Illinois

• “The Science of Rain Gardens” by Ned Siegel, U of I Extension Master Gardener

• “Conservation Program Financial Assistance” by Cindy Zipfel, Monroe County Soil and Water Conservation District

This event is sponsored by Gateway FS, Sydenstricker Nobbe Partners, Farm Credit Illinois and Rural 1st.

RSVP by by calling 618-939-6181, Ext. 3.