Trends in timber harvesting have led landowners to believe that two of the most common harvesting methods are good for forest health.
The first of these practices is commonly advertized as "we only cut the best". This slogan sounds good, as you are leaving the worst trees behind, but what is left come the next harvest rotation? With proper forest management most landowners should be able to see at least two harvests on their property within their lifetime.
A high grade cutting technique severely decreases the chances for another timber harvest for a few reasons: no seed source is available for regeneration of the stand for wanted tree species, large falling trees can destroy or diminish the value of residual standing timber and finally increased sunlight to the forest floor can diminish desirable tree regeneration and decrease hunting opportunities.
The second common harvesting practice is a diameter limit harvest. A diameter limit harvest sets a minimum diameter on trees to be harvested. This can be a good timber harvesting practice in some cases only if conducted properly. Commonly the diameter limit is set too low. When a diameter is set that is to low and you have an abundance of large diameter trees, this type of harvest could essentially be a form of clear-cut. It would be best to set a diameter and tie ribbon around trees of that diameter or higher. Get a visual image of what that stand would look like without those trees. If it seems like to many trees would be cut, you may want to think about raising the diameter limit.
Another problem with the diameter limit harvest is that the logger may only take species that are desirable in the timber market. Make sure that the logger takes all trees within the specified diameter range to ensure your forest will contain greater diversity of tree species, and a quality seed source for future regeneration.
It is recommended that a consulting forester be contacted prior to any harvesting activities. He will be able to answer any questions you may have about harvesting and will be able to work accordingly with your goals and objectives for your forest. If you have any question contact Clayton Rico, Forest Resource Specialist with Muskingum Soil and Water Conservation District 740-454-2027.
Clayton Rico, Forest Resource Specialist with the Muskingum Soil and Water Conservation District.Zanesville Times Recorder
