OWATONNA &8212; Daryl Smith, director of the Tallgrass Prairie Center in Cedar Falls, Iowa, will be the guest speaker at a special event intended to more fully explore the value of undisturbed roadsides in southeastern Minnesota.

Representatives from local and state government, conservation and sportsmen&8217;s groups, media and private citizens will be in attendance at the workshop.

Leaving roadsides undisturbed, especially during the spring and early summer, could provide a significant boost to both game and non-game wildlife. Additionally, undisturbed roadsides planted to native grasses and forbs add visual appeal for travelers and decreases expenses related to mowing and plowing drifting snow.

The Minnesota DNR launched a Roadsides for Wildlife program in 1984. Although the program has had success in reducing disturbance of roadsides from mowing, burning, and vehicles, the full potential of roadsides is far from being realized.

People wishing to stay for lunch are asked to RSVP Carmelita Nelson at (651) 259-5014 or e-mail Carmelita.nelson@dnr.state.mn.us.