Manitou Islands Memorial Society - Volunteer Opportunity

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on North Manitou Island - 2002

Volunteer Opportunity

Antique Apple Tree Pruning Workshop
Friday, May 5, 2006 ~ 1:00 - 4:00PM
Kelderhouse and Lawr Farmsteads ~ Port Oneida

The Park invites you to participate in a pruning workshop on Friday, May 5th, from 1:00 - 4:00PM at the Miller Farmstead in the Port Oneida Rural Historic District, four miles north of Glen Arbor on M-22.

The workshop will focus on maintenance of neglected apple trees, how to bring them back into production, and maintain their health. You'll learn 1) how to identify and properly remove dead materials from abandoned trees, 2) proper pruning of the canopy for optimum maintenance and apple production, 3) maintaining tree health, 4) how to maintain ground cover under the tree, 5) watering and care of the tree, and 6) equipment safety. With all the "antique" apple trees found on both islands, this workshop could be the genesis of some very rewarding future projects.

Partners for this workshop include the Leelanau Conservation District, MSU Northwest Michigan Horticultural Station, and the County Extension Master Gardener Program. Participants will receive "hands on" training in all techniques. Experts from these three County offices will provide technical information and instruction, with the Park serving as host. Previous knowledge and experience is not required. The purpose of the workshop is to teach the techniques and train homeowners and the interested public how to restore to health and maintain antique apple trees.

We'll meet for a 1:00 PM orientation session at the Port Oneida Schoolhouse. Follow M-22 north from Glen Arbor about four miles, then turn left on Port Oneida Road. Wear sturdy shoes and gloves. Handouts, tools and materials will be provided, and there is no cost. Rain date: Friday, May 8th at the same time and location.

Registration by April 29th is requested. Advance sign-up is not mandatory, but would be helpful to event planners. If planning to participate, please advise Park Historic Architect, Kimberly Mann at 231-326-5135 x501, send your name, address and telephone number to kimberly_mann@nps.gov or use the "Sign-Up" link above.