A series of public meetings to discuss forest management to benefit grouse and other woodland species in eastern Kentucky will begin next week. Biologists with the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources will conduct meetings in Morehead, Paintsville and Corbin.

Grouse populations in eastern Kentucky have been on the decline for several years. Management planning seeks to boost the population of forest species such as grouse. Presenters will discuss the current status of woodlands wildlife, existing forest conditions, the department’s future vision for management and an ongoing partnership with Wisconsin on habitat work. Department officials will seek feedback from the audience after their presentations.

Meetings are set for the following dates, times and locations:

• Morehead: Thursday, Feb. 26, 6 p.m., Morehead Conference Center, 111 East 1st Street.
• Paintsville: Saturday, Feb. 28, 7 p.m., Paintsville Recreation Center, 232 Preston Street (Held in conjunction with the Kentucky Grouse Hunters Association annual banquet).
• Corbin: Monday, March 2, 7 p.m. Tri-county Quail Club, 369 Wilton Cemetery Road.

Announcement by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources.