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The Handbook was developed specifically for those landowners who want to manage their forest and its precious resources with a focus on the long term. On behalf of future generations—thank you! Hopefully, this publication will help you and your family to manage your forest to meet your needs and your desires for many years to come. Whether you own 10 or 2,000 acres, you should feel great pride in knowing that your forest helps to clean the air, filter the water and provide food and shelter to literally thousands of plants and animals.

To order additional handbooks, contact MACED

at 859-986-2373, [email protected]

or the Division of Water502-564-3410

Published by

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Why We Need Healthy Forests 5

The Changing Landscape 6

Guidelines for a Healthy, Productive Forest 12

What’s Your Land Worth To You? 17

Your Land Assessment 19

Getting to Know Your Forest 25

Mapping Your Land 28

Managing Your Forest Investment 31

Developing Goals and Objectives 33

Why Plan? 37

The A B C’s of Management Planning 37

Case Studies 53

Appendices:Land and Water Protection Measures PreHarvest A–1 Harvest A–24 PostHarvest A–30

Glossary A–40

Contacts A–51

References A–58

Sample Timber Harvest Contract A–62

FINAL forest handbook single pages.indd 2/23/2004, 2:11 PM1

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Meeting your goals and objectives while managing for the long termDeveloping a management plan that promotes the

health and well being of your forest.

Your forest’s role in protecting Kentucky’s water, soil and other

natural resources

Importance of your Healthy Forest

Step Three:Managing your Investment

Step Two:Assessing your Current Forestland enlist help of forest professional

Step One:Past Practices and Occurances

Natural Disturbances:disease, insects and fire

Human Disturbances:overharvesting, water pollution,

soil loss and degredation

Geology, Topography, Vegetation, Watersheds and

special considerations

Identify unique ecological areas and fragile areas off-limits to

harvesting.

Getting to Know your Forestmapping and interpreting your land

Prioritizing your Objectivesand assessing short term needs.

Managing your Forest to achieve Goals and Objectives

(your forest management plan)

Implementing Land and Water Protection Measures

Maintain long term management activities

This handbook is designed around the following topics.

Family Resource Inventory


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This publication is aimed at helping people like you, private forest landowners, to better under-stand and manage your valuable resource. With proper management, your forest can provide many benefits for your family for generations to come.

By simply reading this publication, you are taking an important first step—one that will pay off in the long-term value of your forest.

Along the way, you’ll find interesting facts and contact information for forestry topics specifically related to Kentucky.

By following the steps outlined in this publica-tion, you will have an understanding of:

• land and water protection measures to help you maintain or increase the

intrinsic values of your forest; • how to set management objectives tailored to your specific property, your

goals and financial needs; • the how-to’s of management practices

including tips for working with forest consultants; and

• the state and federal guidelines related to landowner responsibilities.

Welcome to theForest Landowner’s Handbook


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Overview

There are many resources available to assist Kentucky’s private landowners and help carry out management plans. These resources will be most effective if first you take the time to better understand your forest and have clear goals and objectives for its management. This handbook will provide you with the information and tools to do just that.

The premise of this Handbook is that your goal is a well-managed forest. It will show you how to best match your needs, goals and objectives with management strategies that can help you reach that goal. In general, there are three critical points when the decisions you make do the most to determine the long-term value and health of your forest: 1. when you decide how to manage your land (now is a good time); 2. when you decide if and how to carry out forestry activities; and 3. when you make decisions regarding the future inheritance or sale of the land.

This Handbook is designed for landowners inter-ested in maintaining or increasing their forest’s value for the long-term. It is possible to have this goal and to manage your forest to provide income. All too often, these are seen as con-flicting goals, but with proper planning your forest can provide income and provide many wildlife and recreational benefits for your family forever.

The flowchart on page 2 outlines the steps covered in this Handbook that you will use to guide your management decisions. By reading the following chapters—fewer than 75 pages—you will have the information you need to set the goals and objectives of your management plan and will learn about the many state and federal resources available to help with your planning.

The Appendices include specific how-to’s of Land and Water Protection Measures, a complete landowner’s forest glossary and contact lists for state assistance programs and professionals.

WATERSHED: an area where all water

running off the land drains to a specific

location. Sometimes called a basin.

ECOSYSTEM: The components of a

particular habitat, such as a pond or

forest, together with the physical envi-

ronment in which they live. Components

of ecosystems are interdependent. That

is, what affects one plant or animal will

likely impact the others.

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Forested land may seem plentiful in

Kentucky, but the landscape is changing.

Timber harvest rates are at an all time

high.

MaryAnn Fajvan, West Virginia University

Why We NeedHealthy ForestsForests are valuable on many different levels. They have long fueled the economy, providing goods ranging from basic building materials to fine furnishings. Many forest owners are now also realizing economic benefit from non-timber forest products like gourmet mushrooms and medicinal herbs. This publication includes interesting case studies profiling people who make their living cultivating and selling non-timber forest products.

Forests provide recreational opportunities for hikers, hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts. Forests are instrumental to the health and well-being of our planet. They provide clean air, filter our water, help regulate temperature and support diverse plant life that also serves as habitat for many animals. With proper management, a forest can provide income to the landowner and simultaneously contribute to a healthy ecosystem.

Forests play a major role in your daily life—regardless of where you live. But this is a particularly important fact in Kentucky where nearly 93% of the state’s forests are privately owned. As a forest landowner, your management decisions reach far beyond the boundaries of your property. Poor management practices can impact fishing, birdwatching, wildlife habitat and even contaminate drinking water. Forests and water-sheds are interconnected—your neighbors’ forest practices directly affect your backyard.

Your decisions also reach beyond the present time into the future. In fact, some harmful logging practices can damage or degrade your

land and water quality well into your great- grandchildren’s lives.

You carry an awesome responsibility, but with it comes an opportunity to steward your land so that it continues to function as a renewable natural resource and increases in value for years to come.

Kentucky’s forests are among the

most diverse and complex in all of North

America. Maintaining your forest’s health is impor-

tant in many ways. If you suspect that a neighbor’s poor harvesting practices are affecting the wild-life and water quality in your area, call and we’ll send another copy of this handbook for you to pass along. It stresses the importance and long term benefit of sound forest management prac-

tices and even includes how-to’s of land and water protection measures. For

additional copies, call MACED at 859-986-2373.


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The Changing LandscapeAcid rain, global warming, loss of tropical rain forests, increased flooding and fire are all environmental topics that regularly headline our news. The story behind these headlines is that many of these catastro-phes are linked to poor forest management and the decline of forests throughout the world. As a forest landowner, it’s becoming increasingly important to view your forest as more than your backyard, but as integral to main-taining clean water and clean air in Kentucky.

Kentucky’s forests face a myriad of challenges from both natural and human disturbances. These disturbances may have long-range impacts on the productivity of your forest and the envi-ronment. Understanding these potential impacts and being able to identify some of their signs is vital for the long-term health of your forest and its inhabitants.

Natural Disturbances in Your ForestThere are several types of natural disturbances that may occur on your land and each type of these has the potential to degrade the quality of your forest. Primary types of natural disturbance

include: insect infestations, weather, fire, inhibiting vegetation, disease (butternut canker, oak decline, hemlock woolly adelgid), loss of natural pollinators (honey bees, but-terflies) and loss of forest understory (grasses,

herbs, shrubs and trees).

It is not uncommon to have multiple natural disturbances on your property, but not every disturbance means disaster. Forests have been responding to natural disturbances since the beginning of time. Some disturbances like weather and insect outbreaks have no preventative management mea-sures, only prescriptive ways with which to limit potential damage. Other disturbances can be offset, but it’s important to consider the impact that certain management practices like pesticides may have on oth-erwise healthy trees and clean water. In some cases you may spend time and money fighting an inevitable disturbance and end up creating a worse sce-nario.

Insect InfestationsExamples include the gypsy moth, Southern pine beetle and the Asian longhorned beetle. Insect infestations are common and there are several ways they can affect a tree. Each insect has distinct signs, but in general: defoliators eat the leaves or needles off of the

Gypsy Moth

photo: www.bugwood.org

The gypsy moth was first

introduced from France into the

United States in 1869. Since then,

it has steadily expanded north,

west, and south into Appalachia.

Favored host species are oak, apple,

hickory, maple, cherry, cottonwood,

elm, blackgum, sassafras, poplar,

sweetgum, and hornbeam. The

pests can defoliate millions of acres

in a season. In 1981, gypsy moths

defoliated a record 12.9 million

acres.

Defoliation results in reduced

growth, loss of tree vigor, mortality

and reduction of aesthetic,

recreational, and wildlife values of

your forest. Gypsy moth adult

females do not fly. The wind picks

up and disperses small caterpillars.

For information about how to stop

the spread of gypsy moths, visit

www.fsl.wvnet.edu/gmoth.

Getting bugged out? A

good resource to help you

identify types of insect infestation

and environmentally healthy

management steps to help curb

outbreak is

www.bugwood.org


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tree; bark beetles and borers drill holes that excrete sap or pitch onto the bark and wood; and piercing and sucking insects eat select portions of the tree.

Cutting and removing the infected timber is one way to help control insect outbreaks. Remember, not all insects are harmful or will wreak havoc on your forest.

WeatherIce storms, drought, tornados and lightning strikes occur some-where in the south almost every year. They can cause extensive damage by uprooting, wounding, deforming and breaking trees and the resulting fuels can lead to uncontrolled fires.

If you lose a group of trees to weather, you may choose to re-plant with seedlings or allow the area to naturally regenerate. You may find that a small area in transition will actually help promote the wildlife you see on your property.

Don’t just scrap the damaged trees. Often, sections of even small trees can be utilized for interesting projects like gourmet mushroom cultivation or small building projects. Some enter-prising people have even built an entire home with timber felled during an ice storm. Appalachia-Science in the Public Interest

(ASPI) can provide you with more details about their “cordwood buildings” that can be con-structed for as little as $8 a square foot! You can contact ASPI at 606-256-0077 or through email: [email protected].

FireFire can be beneficial to your forest. Prescribed burns are used as a management tool that can promote the health and vigor of your forest, but only under the guidance of a professional who will gauge temperature, wind conditions and relative humid-ity.

Natural fires have been sup-pressed for over a hundred years. This suppression has increased forest fuel loads, so fires burn hotter and longer than centuries ago.

Arson is the leading cause of forest fires in Kentucky. Whether intended or accidental, 99% are the result of some activ-ity of man. On an average, these fires consume nearly 45,000 acres of forest a year. Forest fires don’t follow property boundaries; all landowners are vulnerable to their devastation. Call 9-1-1 to report a forest fire. If you suspect arson, you can anonymously report it by calling 1-800-27-ARSON.

Fire is also the primary cause for basal wounding, which can serve as the entry point for disease

Gourmet Mushrooms

photo: Sara Thilman

Gourmet mushrooms can either

be cultivated or wild crafted.

Mushrooms grow so well under

wild conditions because they have

a “symbiotic” relationship with

the forest. They actually depend

on one another for survival.

Mushroom cultivation doesn’t have

to be a large-scale operation. Many

growers do so simply for personal

enjoyment. Timber damaged by

weather may not have commercial

value, but is often ideal to cultivate

mushrooms. You can purchase

mushroom spawn to inoculate your

own logs from several vendors,

like www.fieldforest.net (800)

792-6220 and Mushroom People

www.thefarm.org/mushroom.

Fire scars—also known as “catfaces”—

leave the tree susceptible to insects and

disease.

photo by Dave Powell, USDA Forest Service

According to

the state Division of

Forestry, 99% of the forest

fires in Kentucky are the result of

some activity of man.

Anonymously report arson by

calling

1-800-27-ARSON.


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and insects. Insects, such as beetles and wood borers, are attracted to trees stressed by fire damage.

Scarring is a good indicator of past fire damage. Fire scars usually occur at the base of the tree and normally on the uphill side where there is a slope. Charred areas are normally present on the bark of affected trees. Fire damage can be more apparent on younger trees, with a loss of bark or foliage in the crown.

Invasive VegetationInvasive, or nuisance vegeta-tion, such as grape vines, poison ivy and kudzu can strangle or suppress the growth and vigor of a tree. If this vegetation doesn’t destroy the tree it will stunt its growth and vigor. Invasive vegetation does not discriminate against any tree species and, if uncontrolled, can damage very large areas of forest.

Recommended procedure for removing nuisance vegetation often relies on manual labor—physically cutting and destroying unwanted vines and plants. Early detection and treatment is key. For more information about common invasives found in Kentucky and how to help eradicate them, you can contact the Kentucky Exotic Pest Plant Council at

www.exoticpestplantcouncil.org/ky.

DiseaseDisease can affect tree foliage, branches, and the main stem, typically resulting in fewer leaves

or defoliation. In cases of severe impact you’ll notice decay, broken limbs and even tree mortality.

There is no tree species that is immune to disease. Conifers show disease through distorted limbs and needle spots. Hard-woods will show leaf spots or distortion of the main stem and branches. A moderate hazard in Kentucky is annosum root disease, in which a fungus appears at the root collar of the tree. Spores, which are airborne to freshly cut stumps or wounds, germinate rapidly to infect the tree.

Disease control is usually costly in terms of forest stand man-agement. The best action to take is preventive management. Keep an eye on signs of disease or abnormalities. Contact your local extension agent or the Ky. Division of Forestry as soon as you suspect symptoms.

Loss of Natural PollinatorsFor every bite of food you eat, you should thank a bee, butter-fly, bat, bird or other pollinator. Pollination, which is the transfer of pollen from one flower to another, is critical for plant reproduction. Many insects and

Garlic Mustard

Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata)

is considered a severe threat

in Kentucky. It spreads easily

into native plant communities and

displaces vegetation.

The plant has no natural enemies

and can be present in an area

for years before it appears—often

seeming to explode. Garlic mustard

can invade forested areas, even

areas that have not been disturbed.

It grows quickly in the late fall

and early spring, when most native

species are dormant.

This photo is from www.invasive.org

—a good source for information

about invasive and exotic species

that are likely to cause economic

or environmental harm or harm to

human health.

All pine species in the South are

susceptible to annosum root disease—a

fungus transmitted through the root

system.

photo: www.forestryimages.org


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animals contribute to this process. It’s an invalu-able service considering three-quarters of our staple crops and 90 percent of all flowering plants in the world depend upon natural pollinators.

The decline of natural pollinators is a concern for everyone. This decline is due to a number of variables including loss of habitat, disease, pesticides and climatic fluctu-ations. Although these variables may seem to be beyond your control, you can encourage habitat for natural pollinators. Encourage mul-tistory growth to promote flowering plants, shrubs, and understory tree species. This will create a healthy habitat to help sustain natural pollinators. Keep pesticide use to a minimum. Remember, bug sprays and insecticides don’t differentiate between natural pollinators and pests.

Loss of Understory Grasses, Herbs, Shrubs, and TreesAs forests become more fragmented, they encourage larger populations of animals that thrive on the understory plants, grasses and shrubs. White tail deer in particular present a threat to the natural diversity of the forest. Their grazing habits reduce the forest understory and consequently, reduce the habitat and food supply of many plants and animals. In heavily impacted forests, a deer browse line—where deer can no longer reach leaves and buds of branches—can be clearly seen several feet from the ground.

In your management plan, designate some areas to be left “wild” or in their natural state. It

will create habitat for birds, butterflies and small foragers.

Human DisturbancesAlthough natural disturbances pose a threat to the forest, nothing has the potential to degrade the

balance of our forests’ health like human impact. What’s more, it’s

largely avoidable. Humans contaminate water and soil resources without realizing it

or considering the consequences.

Water Pollution Through Erosion and Sedimentation

One of the most harmful impacts of improper forestry

practices is water pollution from erosion, sedimentation and runoff. This is known as Nonpoint Source Pollution. When land is cleared of trees and veg-etation the ability of that

land to store water, trap sediment, absorb nutrients

such as phosphorous and nitro-gen and regulate temperature by

shading the forest floor and streams decreases.

Surface runoff, erosion and sedimentation (think mud) pollute waterways by: • removing shade, which increases stream temperatures; • increasing the amount of precipitation runoff and sediment runoff. This can alter stream flow and lead to increased flooding, bank erosion and bank failure; • covering stream gravel with sediment that smothers habitat for fish and other

Nonpoint source

(NPS) pollution is also known

as runoff or diffuse pollution. Unlike pol-

lution from industrial and sewage treatment

plants, NPS pollution is caused by rainfall or snow-

melt moving over and through the ground. NPS

pollution is the number one contributor to water

pollution in Kentucky; it accounts for approximately

67% of the water quality impairments in Kentucky’s

streams and lakes. As the runoff moves, it picks up

and carries pollutants, finally depositing them

into lakes, rivers, wetlands, and even

underground aquifers.

75% of the food

crops we rely on and 90%

of all flowering plants depend

upon natural

pollinators! Think twice before

you kill a bee or spray for

“pests”.

Key Indicators of past Human Disturbances:• Structures - foundations, old

road beds, fences, rock piles or

ponds

• Agriculture - orchard, fence,

pine forest mixed with eastern

redcedar

• Forestry - stumps (alone they

indicate logging in the past

15 years, if tree tops are

also present logging occurred

within the past three years),

planted tree rows, trees are all

the same height and age

• Other - cemetery, burial mound

Key Indicators of past Natural Disturbances:• Wind Damage - broken tops

and limbs, crooked tree trunks,

downed trees

• Fire - charred tree trunks

(sometimes called catfaces)

• Ice - broken tops and limbs,

bentover trees

• Flood - roots exposed near

stream or river, debris trapped in

branches

• Wildlife - browse lines, nests,

beaver ponds

• Insects/disease - dead trees,

damaged leaves or needles, tree

decline

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aquatic organisms; • encouraging algae blooms by providing excessive amounts of sunlight and nutrients. This can inhibit the growth of beneficial plants and may lead to severe oxygen depletion; and • promoting the growth of harmful bacteria that may release toxic chemicals into the water. These bacterium live in the mud and silt that accumulate and their presence is known by a “rotten egg” smell.

The steep topography of Kentucky’s Appalachian region works to accelerate erosion and accumu-late more sediment, making Nonpoint Source Pollution even more of a challenge.

The cumulative effects of sedimentation and erosion are rarely isolated to a single stream. It’s likely that one landowner’s activities will also be felt downstream and can potentially degrade the quality of neighboring water resources. The Land and Water Protection Measures found in the Appendix of this publication include specific information about how to conduct forestry activi-ties without polluting your water.

Pesticides Pesticides are occasionally used in forest man-agement to reduce mortality of desired tree species, improve forest production, and favor particular plant species. Typically, each forest stand should have no more than two applications during their rotation, which depending on the tree species can range from 35 to 120 years.

Even with limited applications, watersheds accu-mulate pesticides and fertilizers in the soil and waterbodies. These chemicals, which are often toxic, can enter surface water through

drift, direct application, overland flow, leaching through the soil and transport through ephem-eral streams.

Pesticides and fertilizers actually alter the eco-system (relationships between organisms and their environment) and need to be used with extreme caution. There are recommended man-agement practices (in this handbook, they are referred to as Land and Water Protection Measures, in the Appendix) regarding pesticide and fertilizer applications that can help you determine the correct use and application of these chemicals.

Poor Land Management PracticesOften people think of forestry activities in terms of what is being taken out of the forest. But, if you’re interested in maintaining or improving the quality of your forest, the more important question is, “What are you leaving in the forest and in what condition?”

One of the most common forms of forest mis-management is called high grading. This practice removes the most commercially valuable trees leaving a residual stand of trees that are either in poor condition or of species that are not very marketable. By doing this, you weaken the “gene pool” or actual seed stock of your forest. It’s unhealthy for the forest and really decreases the value of your timber and property.

The forest is potentially a renewable resource, but not an unlimited resource. A growing world population, high consumption and increasing transportation systems that move resources to every point on earth has created a demand for forestry resources that will soon exceed the resource’s ability to satisfy demand on a long-term basis.

HIGH GRADING removes the most

commercially valuable trees leaving a

stand of poor quality or less desirable

species. This practice not only degrades

the quality and value of the forest, but

can have long term genetic implications,

too.

photo: KY State Nature Preserves Commission

This is a photo of what not to do. The

erosion and rutting of this logging site

are only the most obvious disturbances.

A cut and run like this can permanently

alter the entire forest ecosystem.

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Yellow Buckeye

American Elm Virginia Pine

American Basswood American Sycamore American Chestnut Chestnut Oak

American Beech Eastern Hemlock Kentucky Coffeetree Sasafrass

Sweetgum (autumn) Tulip Poplar White Ash (autumn)

Red Maple (autumn) Yellow Birch White Oak

Leaves of typical Kentucky trees speciesThe photos are courtesy of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources http://www.dnr.state.oh.us/forestryA great pocket version is Tree Finder (May Theilgaard Watts), $3.50 from www.naturestudy.com.

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Guidelines for a Healthy, Productive ForestForests are complex ecological systems with many living and non-living components. As demand for forest products increases, forests face greater threats. In order to make good management decisions, it’s essential to under-stand that your forest’s value extends far beyond the trees and far beyond your genera-tion.

At one time most of the eastern United States was forested with patches of prairie, glades,

wetlands and areas disturbed by wind, ice and burning. Human development, agriculture and deforestation dramatically changed the land-scape. Today much of the land is in fields, towns, industrial sites and homes with patches of forest and wetlands. In fact, less than one-tenth of 1% of Kentucky’s land is in its natural state. The maps on page 14 illustrate just how much of the land cover has been altered over the last two centuries.

As a landowner this presents both a challenge and an opportunity. A well-managed forest is a resource that can provide for all times. Nature has managed its forests for millennia. Now human use of the forest has moved that responsi-bility into the hands of landowners.

This handbook will help you better understand your forest, develop forest management goals and understand how to implement protection mea-sures for your property. But before narrowing your focus to your specific property, it’s worth-while to understand some of the principles that ecologists use when determining how to best maintain and restore healthy ecosystems.

Maintain and restore the largest continuous areas of forest possible. If your land is part of a large tract of uninterrupted forest, you have a rare treasure. It likely supports many different ecological communities and a rich diversity of plants and animals. Central Appalachia even boasts some forest types that are globally recog-nized for their significance and rarity.

In addition to providing habitat for a wide array of native plants and animals, a continuous forest also benefits the water quality and water flow on your property. A lush forest canopy helps to reg-

“Keep close to

Nature’s heart... and

break clear away, once in

awhile, and climb a mountain or

spend a week in the woods.

Wash your spirit clean.”

John Muir

After being clear cut, this forest patch was susceptible to the eastern hayscented fern.

photo courtesy of Don Harker

Volunteers repair a pedestrian bridge at Bad Branch State Nature Preserve located in Letcher

County. This Preserve boasts numerous rare species, a hemlock-forested gorge, a designated

Kentucky Wild River, and the state’s only known pair of nesting common ravens.


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ulate stream temperature and protects surface water. Large forests filter ground water and when needed act as giant sponges—absorbing overflow in rainy periods then releasing water gradually in drought-like conditions. Known as hydrologic equilibrium, this self-regulating tech-nique not only provides a healthy habitat for plants and animals, but is key to regulating ground water flow. Global deforestation has been directly linked to increased flooding and oppres-sive drought conditions.

You can promote continuous forests by preserv-ing them and maintaining the health and vigor of vegetative species. More details about sustain-able forest management are found on page 15.

Even though forests regenerate over time, land ownership patterns make it difficult to “reas-semble” a fragmented tract. So it’s important for adjacent landowners to work together either by mutual or contractual agreements to keep indi-vidually-owned large tracts together.

Reforest portions of the landscape that are best suited to forest. It’s likely that portions of your land were once used for small agriculture or live-stock operations. Reforestation allows this land to return to its natural forested condition. When reforesting it’s important to use more than one species and select species that are native to your region. The Kentucky Division of Forestry has tree seedlings native to your area available (502) 564-4496.

Maintain as many small patches of forest as possible. A small patch of forest is better than no forest at all. Even a small patch or forested corridor

will provide habitat not otherwise available in a field or pasture. Small patches can also protect landscape features like sinkholes and erodible soil.

Maintain and create corridors between forested areas along streams and rivers, fence rows, and natural features. Corridors are narrow strips of forest that allow animals to move between patches of similar habitat. Even small corridors provide a valuable “wildlife highway” for mammals, amphibians, and reptiles that travel on the ground and have limited mobility. Forest corridors are particularly important along streams, fences or between forest patches. See the special section on Riparian Buffer Zones on pages 23 and 24.

To further encourage wildlife, you can feather the edge between two habitats, such as forest and field. Feathering, or allowing adjacent land on either side of the corridor to regrow, provides a gentle transition that deer, songbirds and quail are drawn to. The regrowth will be a different age than the corridor and provide a step-wise progression into the next habitat type.

Minimize the fragmentation of all forested areas. Fragmentation refers to the decrease in patch size and the

BIODIVERSITY—the variety of plants,

animals and other organisms—was once

a term used exclusively by scientists.

Now concerned citizens are becoming

more aware of the importance of

tracking biodiversity and using it as

an indicator of relative environmental

health or degradation.

Short for biological diversity, it can be

used to describe the number of species,

the variety in the area’s plant and animal

communities, the genetic variability of

the animals, or a combination of these

elements.

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increase in patch isolation. Fragmentation can be defined as the landscape altering process that creates “islands” or isolated remnants of natural communities that once covered an entire land-scape. Forest clearing for roads, agriculture and housing interrupts ecological communities and habitats. This loss of habitat is considered to be one of the leading causes of species extinction.

EPHEMERAL STREAMS flow only during

significant rainfall. They flow in natural

channels, but the channel bottom of an

ephemeral stream is usually above the

water table.

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Kentucky, then and now

Maintain or restore a variety of natural community types and the full structural diversity of forest communities. Small “different” natural community types and the ecotone (transition zones between natural communities) should be protected. A small depression in a woodland may be a breeding site for amphibians. Likewise, a dry ridge may support a rare tree or shrub and the species that go with it. Remember that just because an area doesn’t “look like” the rest of your property doesn’t mean that it doesn’t belong. Through this variety you’ll achieve the greatest diversity of native plants and animals.

Likewise, preserve the diversity of the vegetation structure, which is the full complement of trees, shrubs, understory trees and herbaceous plants present in a natural community. Leaf litter and dead logs are also valuable in enhancing habitat for small animals.


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What is Sustainable Forestry?by the Western North Carolina Alliance

(http://www.main.nc.us/wnca/index.htm)

Forestry simply means human management of a

forest. The work that is actually done varies, depend-

ing on the objectives of the landowner. While

forestry often involves producing income and prod-

ucts for human use, it could include any one of the

many ways humans relate to the forest.

Sustainable Forestry works with the

long-term view in mind. Its goals are to preserve

the health of the forest community

while producing the finest

products possible. Timber

cutting is a valid

objective, but so, too,

are wildlife pres-

ervation, soil and

water conservation,

and aesthetic enjoy-

ment.

There is no specific

formula for Sustainable

Forestry. Rather, it is a set

of guiding principles, a “tool

box” of ideas and techniques.

Depending on the site and stand

condition and the landowner’s objectives, the

consulting forester pulls out the proper “tools” for

the particular situation.

Sustainable forestry practitioners try to reach their

objectives by the direct use of natural processes,

or by mimicking their action as closely as possible.

Although a stand under Sustainable Forestry has been

worked, it still functions as a part of the larger forest.

The forest is a complex web of interrelationships

among plants, animals, soil, and the elements. With

skilled and careful treatment, work in the forest can

be carried on that leaves these relationships intact.

Sustainable Forestry tries to “leave the land

better than it was found.” It minimizes soil deple-

tion, so the soil can continue to grow quality trees

in the future. The primary goal is to maintain

or improve the ecological condition

of the natural forest, and, if

timber production is an objec-

tive, to grow the finest trees

possible—trees that are

tall, straight and wide of

girth—to fetch premium

prices as quality sawlogs

or veneer.

Water quality is another

primary concern. We have

a responsibility to protect

the streams and rivers and the

aquatic habitats that they support.

The condition of the water leaving a

tract is an indelible record of the quality of

the work taking place on that tract.

The goals of sustainable forest

managment are to:

~ provide revenue from timber and non-timber products;

~ maintain and restore biodiversity;

~ maintain a healthy forest ecosystem;

~ protect water quality and quantity; and

~ provide scenic beauty for the spiritual and aesthetic enrichment of

all who visit and see the forest.

This aerial photo shows the natural

mosaic of the forest. Diversity is key to

nature as seen in the patchwork of forest

communities (the blending of trees, soil

types, plants, animals and other

elements).

photo: www.photos.com

15

Wh

at

is S

usta

inab

le F

ore

str

y?


16

forester and the logging contractor. But it offers its

own rewards.

Top-quality trees produce top-dollar prices. But

beyond any monetary compensation is the satis-

faction of being involved with the land and doing

good work. A walk in the forest takes on new

dimensions when land that is under one’s care is

healthy and productive. That is a satisfaction that

improves, generation by generation.

Sustainable Forestry is an idea that should be wel-

comed by loggers and the forest products industry

as well as by landowners. Between 85-90 percent of

the timber cut in the Southern Appalachian Mountains

comes from private lands. Logging contractors who

know sustainable forestry techniques will find a much

wider welcome among the current landowners who

control the timber base in the mountains today.

Sustainable Forestry requires constancy and a higher

degree of knowledge and skill from the landowner, the

This photo shows Kentucky’s natural beauty in full splendor. Our forests

are potentially a renewable resource, but only if we choose to manage them

sustainably.

photo courtesy of Keith Mountain, KY. Geographic Alliance

16


17

What’s Your Land Worth to You?Your Land Assessment

Getting to Know Your Forest

Mapping Your Land


18


19

Your Land AssessmentThe benefits of a healthy forest are immeasurable. A healthy forest provides for the landowner and also contributes to an overall healthy ecology.

A good way to fully appreciate your property is to “walk the land.” Observe your property like you’re looking at it for the first time. When walking your property, focus on the natural components that contribute to its distinct and unique features: geology, soil, topography, surface water and vegetation. It’s much easier to understand what make a forest healthy, if you look at its interconnected parts.

This section of the Handbook will give you basic information about these individual components. At the end of this chapter there is a landowner checklist to take with you on your walk.

Geology and SoilsThe underlying geology of your land is a primary factor of your forest and greatly influences other factors, like topography and soils.

The map (right) shows the major geographic and geologic areas of Kentucky.

The vast majority of Kentucky’s underlying bedrock is shale, sandstone or limestone. Because each reacts differently to weathering and erosion, they produce vastly different landscapes.

One of the most unique geologic features in Kentucky is Pine Mountain, which stretches for 120 miles through the southeast region of the state. Pine Mountain is the result of geologic events which “upthrust” rock layers at relatively high angles and exposed rock formations normally found 2,000 feet below the ground. This created a long uninterrupted rim with four distinct sides. The result is a wide variety of ecological communities, some of which are considered extremely rare for this area. Pine Mountain provides an excellent example of how topography, soils, vegetation and watershed are all tied to the land’s underlying geology.

Efforts are

underway to protect the

unique ecological communities

found on Pine Mountain and

enhance environmental learning

opportunities in the area. To learn

more, contact Kentucky Natural

Lands Trust 877-367-5658 or

visit www.knlt.org.


20

Basic Fundamentals of SoilThe term “soil” is a collective term that really refers to the composition of all soils, just as the term “vegetation” is used to designate all plants.

Characteristics of soil can vary widely. On the steep slopes of the eastern coal fields, the soil will not be as deep or productive as soil that resides in neighboring valleys. Underlying sandstone is often less productive than soil formed from limestone, found in larger quantities within the western portion of the state.

Soil consists of layers known as horizons. Typically soil has an A, B, C and R horizon. 1. A-horizon: Usually higher in organic matter and darker in color than underlying horizons.2. B-horizon: Typically yellowish brown to red in color from the minerals and materials that have leached from the upper horizons. 3. C-horizon: Unconsolidated parent material. Parent material is the name given to represent the underlying geology, such as sandstone. 4. R-horizon: Bedrock. See this in a soil profile? You are at a really poor site or have dug way too far!

Soil and geology are important factors that influence the vegetation and water drainage on your property. Soil maps and

surveys are available for most of Kentucky’s counties. Contact your county conservation district or the Kentucky Division of Conservation at 502-564-3080, online at http://www.nr.state.ky.us/nrepc/dnr/Conserve.

TopographyTopography describes the physical features of your land including elevations and natural features. Topography is very important to your property’s vegetation, water drainage and suitable land use.

You may notice that as topography changes from ridge to valley, the type of vegetation also changes. Look even closer and you’ll notice that certain trees and plants prefer one side of a ridge to another. Topography also dictates slope (degree of incline) and aspect (compass direction to which a slope faces, also called exposure).

Slope and aspect help gauge how much sunlight a specific area will receive at various times of the day or seasons during the year. For example, on a northeast-facing slope, the vegetation will receive only a few hours of sunlight, and the sunlight it receives is not the strongest sunlight of the day. Therefore, on a northeast-facing slope you would be more likely to see species that desire cool and moist conditions, such as yellow poplar and sugar maple. South-facing

photo: Paul Wray www.forestryimages.org

Species like this northern red oak

are typically found on north and east

slopes in Appalachian forests. Although

northern red oak is found in many

topographic positions, it always grows

best on lower and middle slopes with

northerly or easterly aspects, in coves

and deep ravines, and on well-drained

valley floors.

Mountain Cove

photo: Kerry Barringer, Paul Harwood

Dictated by topography, mountain

coves are locations were water

collects from surrounding ridge

tops. These areas typically exhibit

a more abundant and diverse

composition of vegetation as a

result of cool moist temperatures.

Coves also have an ecologically

diverse mix of tree species. Some

cove-dwelling tree species, like

the Eastern Hemlock are only

sparsely found outside of these

areas. Rhododendron can also be a

common site as the cove descends

into the valley.

Because these areas very are

sensitive to disturbance, it is

important to protect these areas.


21

slopes receive a greater amount of intense sunlight, which tends to make them drier. Expect to see species that desire these conditions like short-leaf pine and mountain laurel.

VegetationYour forest is a precious resource likely comprised of both deciduous trees (hardwood) and evergreen trees (coniferous, usually pines).

Many of the deciduous forests found in Appalachian Kentucky have several types of tree species that dominate. This rich diversity keeps your forest more resistant, resilient and over time, more valuable.

Species found within the Cumberland Plateau in the canopy layer on north and east slopes and in coves are northern red oak, basswood, beech, yellow poplar, sugar maple, birch, red maple, and hemlock. West slopes contain yellow poplar, red oak, white oak, and hickories. On the south slopes and on the ridges, where moisture becomes more limiting, short leaf pine, chestnut oak, white oak, and Virginia pine are more common. (See more about leaf identification of common Appalachian species on page 11.)

Human activities and disease have altered the composition of many forest communities. Secondary species like eastern redcedar, Virginia pine, shortleaf pine and red maple are almost always an indicator of previous disturbance.

Understory species are also important vegetation. Moist sites likely include rhododendron or fern-like plants, while dry sites feature mountain laurel, wild blueberry or huckleberry. The woody component of other understories usually consists of dogwood and sourwood.

WatershedsRegardless of where you live, your property is part of a watershed. This watershed is an area consisting of numerous streams and waterways, some of which might originate on your property. Of all the previously discussed factors, your watershed is the most critical and the most “at risk” when carrying out forestry or other land management activities.

Watersheds are dynamic and unique. A single watershed hosts a complex web of natural resources—soil, water, air, plants and animals. Technically, a watershed is a divide separating one drainage basin from another, but the term is also used broadly to describe the entire drainage basin or catchment area.

Why is your watershed important?Watersheds are the places we call home, where we work and where we play. Healthy watersheds are vital for a healthy environment and economy. Our watersheds provide water for drinking, irrigation and industry. Lakes and streams are a source of beauty and recreation like boating, fishing and swimming. Wildlife needs healthy watersheds for food and shelter.

We not only all live in a watershed, but most of us live “downstream.” Pollution problems are not isolated; once contaminants enter our watershed, they affect us all. The best way to protect vital natural resources is to understand and manage them on the watershed level.

Pollutants and water qualityIn the past, most water quality problems were traced to the most obvious cause, such as a pipe from a factory. This “end of pipe” source of pollution is known as a point source. However, pollution from a tree harvesting operation is

When water

pollution can be traced

to a specific source, like a

factory spillway, it is known as a

point source pollution. By contrast,

nonpoint source pollution cannot

be traced to one specific area,

but results from a variety of

activities over a wide

area.


22

typically in the form of nonpoint source pollution, which is more difficult to isolate and control.

Nonpoint source pollution often results from a wide variety of activities over a broad area. The largest contributors to nonpoint source pollution outside of urban areas are agriculture, mining and forestry activities.

In many cases there are easy steps to curb nonpoint source pollution. Keep livestock out of streams and other waterbodies. They erode streambanks and contaminate water with their waste.

When conducting forestry activities, ensure good management practices that protect streams from sediment and log debris. What may seem like harmless remains of a logging operation can easily roll downhill into streams. Large woody debris can get trapped in the stream, then erode the stream banks and actually change the stream flow. Sediment blocks out sunlight from the water, making photosynthesis impossible for plants and algae. Sediment and debris buildup cause stream temperature to increase, which in turn depletes the water of oxygen. This is not only toxic to fish, but to much of the plant life that helps naturally filter our water.

Even small steps, like keeping harvest activities outside of protective buffer zones, protect a stream and its inhabitants. Tree canopy provides shade that helps regulate water temperature. (See illustration on page 24.)

The Appendix of this publication, Land and Water Protection Measures, gives specific guidelines to protect water quality before, during and after a harvest operation.

Nonpoint

source pollution

accounts for 65-75% of

impairments in Kentucky’s

streams.


23

Spotlight on Riparian Forests

If you like to fish, swim or boat then you’re likely familiar with riparian forests. They are “life on the edge,” literally, the edge where the forest meets the water’s bank. They can occur next to almost any waterbody—rivers, streams, lakes, reservoirs, springs, bogs, ponds and seeps. Riparian forests are a combination of water, food and forest cover that create habitat for abundant plant and animal life. There are many species of plants and animals which can only survive in riparian areas.

Riparian forests are also key to water quality, regulating water flow and offsetting the harmful effects of drought and flood conditions. In Kentucky, these forests are populated with tulip poplar, sycamore and river birch towering above willow, paw paw, dogwood, ferns and flowers like the Virginia

FOREST BUFFERS or RIPARIAN

BUFFERS are vegetative areas along a

body of water containing a complex

assemblage of vegetation, typical of a

riparian system. Riparian buffers on

your property are important because

they:

1. Filter surface and subsurface

water flow, while the roots of

taller vegetation trap and transform

pollutants and nutrients.

2. Trap soil runoff from upland

areas, reducing the amount of

sedimentation occurrence in

surface waters.

3. Provide habitat and corridors for

wildlife.

4. Stabilize the streambank by

protecting it from erosion.

5. Shade streams and encourage

fish habitat and other desirable

aquatic life.

6. Reduce the effects of both flooding

and droughts.

hbluebell. These plants and the surrounding soils act like a giant sponge to regulate water flow and filter sediment, pollutants and other debris.

Riparian forests only make up a small fraction (< 5%) of the watershed, but contribute incredible benefits. They are also at great risk from forestry activities. In most cases the best way to manage a riparian forest is to leave it alone. If you’re concerned about wildlife habitat and clean water, your best bet is to keep all harvesting activities and equipment out of that area. Allow these areas to remain wild,

including dead trees and branches. As these snags lose their bark and begin to decay, they will continue to provide food and shelter for resident and migratory wildlife.

photo: photos.com

The tree canopy and understory brush of this riparian forest help to shade the

stream and naturally regulate its temperature. This is critical for many aquatic

species to survive. In fact, scientists look for certain types of crayfish, mussels,

salamanders and fish as indicators of water quality. To learn more about Kentucky’s

rare, threatened and monitored species, visit www.naturepreserves.ky.gov.


24

Th

e R

ipari

an

Fo

rest

an

d S

tream

sid

e B

uff

er

Zo

nes

photo

illustr

ation

: USD

A Fores

t Servic

e an

d Sara Thil

man

UNDISTURBED BUFFER ZONE

Mature trees, shrubs and grasses help regulate water flow. Dead trees or snags contribute to animal habitat.


Nature helps to filter sediment, nutrients and pollution from runoff and water below the surface.

STREAM

By following buffer guidelines you will contribute to stream quality, provided wildlife habitat and help offset the effects of drought and flooding.

Buffer Zone or smz100 feet, plus slope

smz = 100’ + 2 x (slope)’


smz = 100’ + 2 x (slope)’

Waterbody ponds, rivers and all perennial,

intermittent and ephemeral streams


25

Getting to Know Your ForestThe integrity of forest communities is essential for their long-term well-being. The first step to a healthy and well-managed forest is to walk throughout your property and become familiar with your land. This will help ensure your long-term enjoyment and pride in your land and its abundant resources.

Past PracticesYour land has gone through many changes over the past century. Both natural and human disturbances have altered the look and composition of your forest’s landscape. Recent disturbances may be easy to spot, but disturbances that happened many years ago may leave more subtle clues.

On the following page is an excerpt from a forest journal. It chronicles past practices and the reason for each action. If you recently purchased your property, you may want to talk with neighbors, the original property owners, local historians or the local Division of Conservation staff or local Division of Forestry foresters to obtain some of this information. Written records like the back issues of local newspapers, old photographs and property deeds may also include helpful facts. Even if you can’t locate records of past events, you may be able to determine past events by observing features throughout your property.

Identifying natural disturbances may require more detective work. Sometimes it is difficult, even for natural resource professionals, to identify past natural disturbances. Remember,

your aim is simply to piece together an overall picture. Individual details are important but not critical.

Forest SuccessionA forest goes through many stages of growth and development. The most common term used for these processes is succession, which means the changes in species composition over time. This happens in a somewhat predictable fashion, so if you can identify some of the indicator trees or plants that are prominent in a “successional stage”, then you can roughly estimate the age of a forest stand. See page 27 for examples of successional stages. In Appalachian Kentucky early successional species include black locust, eastern redcedar, yellow-poplar and sassafras.

Succession of tree species affects everything else in the forest. Not only do the tree species change and grow, but the forest understory and habitat for wildlife change as well.

There are five successional communities that arise when a forest goes from an abandoned field to a mature forest. As an old field is left to naturally revegetate, changes in the availability of light, nutrients, and moisture affect the species that may grow in certain areas. The example on the following page illustrates the five stages of forest succession: pioneer, transition forest, young forest, mature forest and old growth.

Depending upon the site productivity, this process can take from 30 to 300+ years, if human involvement does not occur to establish hardwoods faster.

Determining the Age of Your ForestDetermining the exact age of a forest is a


26

Crowns of trees create a canopy which

eventually will block out sunlight. These

trees are tall, but there are still some

gaps in the canopy allowing sunlight to

reach trees below.

precise science requiring professional equipment. However, there are means by which to obtain a “ball park” estimate. Based upon the principles of succession you can walk through the forest and look for key indicators. If you see an area that has shrubs and small trees then you can determine that this is a very young forest.

A forest with large trees and a closed canopy, which does not allow much sunlight through, is likely a mature forest. Depending on the tree species and soil type it is possible to have very small trees that can be 100

years old.

Recognizing a Mature ForestIn the southeast, typical indicators of

a mature forest are large hardwood trees that are well spaced among

each other with little understory vegetation. The lack of understory vegetation is a result of the trees’ canopy closure, which blocks sunlight from reaching the ground.

However, upon walking your forest you might encounter

areas of dense vegetation within a mature hardwood stand. This

is more than likely a result of a

An old-growth forest is a mature forest

that has never been logged. The actual height and girth of trees in

an old growth forest varies a great deal

and is largely dependent on tree species

and growing conditions. Many old-growth

stands have faced natural disturbances

like fire or lightning.

History of Past Land Practices on my Property

Jan 1947

fall 1948

Aug. ‘65

winter ‘90

spring ‘94

Aug ‘99

fall 2004

spring ‘10

Dad inherited propertyand selectively thinned.

Fenced 20 acres on north side of property

I started college.

Dad sold timber frommiddle acres

Dad passed away. We inherited 140 acres

Brush fire on fouracres closest to house

Used Forest LandownersHandbook

Selective cutting

Dad met with forester to draw up forest management plan to help pay for tuition.

To keep neighbor’s cattle out of streams

As planned, we were able to sell some timber to help pay for tuition.

Market was up, so timing was good. Dad set up accounts for grandkids.

Sold three large veneer quality walnut trees to cover expenses.

Junior loses BBQ privileges

Re-evaluate and update Dad’s management plan

For Lori’s college down payment

Date Land Practice Reason for Action

photo: Sara Thilman


27

In the pioneer stage, herbs, shrubs and sun-loving trees seed in to open fields.

Understanding Forest Succession

After several years, a young forest develops dominated by shade intolerant trees.

In the next 60-120 years, a mature forest develops dominated by intermediate species like oaks, ashes, hickories and maples.

The final stage of succession, old growth forest, contains a variety of ages within and is in a shifting state due to natural disturbances.

disturbance where a mature tree fell. Once a tree topples or is cut, sunlight is able to penetrate to the forest floor and promote vegetation growth.

Recognizing a Transitional ForestBased upon the logic of succession, a forest in the southeast begins with an herb-shrub layer and then progresses to a cedar/pine forest. When walking your forest it is important to recognize that different areas within your property might have forests at different stages of succession. You may notice an abundance of pine or cedar on the

1

54

32

In the transition stage, shrubs and trees shade out the herbs.

edge of a mature forest. This is a sure sign that this area is still in transition to a mature forest. To best identify stages of succession it is helpful to know which species need sunlight and will therefore dominate the canopy.

photos: E

d Ch

ristoph

er an

d Sara Thil

man


28

Mapping Your LandHaving a map of your property is helpful in several ways. A map can provide a useful description of the property boundaries. It’s a useful tool when working with a forester to develop your management plan. It can serve as a historical record for your heirs to carry forth your management objectives. And, it’s pretty cool to be able to look at your forest in a different way.

While walking your property boundary you can take note of unique features of your land, such as wetlands, streams, old growth forests, caves and rock outcrops. By jotting down the unique features of your land, you will start to piece together its history and its current state. The map you create will be really beneficial when you work with a forester or other professional to develop a management plan for your property.

step one: your base map There are two types of maps that work best to create a base map of your land: an aerial photo or a topographic (topo) map. It’s also helpful to obtain a copy of your property deed so you can mark exact boundary lines of your property on your base map.

Contact information on the next page will help you with the logistics of getting your base map. There is also contact information for soil sampling, which will also prove useful in your management plan.

step two: a walk in the woodsYou may enjoy walking through your woods on a regular basis. It’s great exercise and a way to leave the pressures of daily life behind. Many well-known poems, paintings, prayers and great

ideas were inspired by a simple walk in the woods.

This activity will result in a different kind of masterpiece—one that will be invaluable to you in planning for your future forest. So get ready to play detective and observe all your forest has to tell you.

At the end of this chapter you’ll find a landowner checklist titled “Reading Your Land.” This checklist will provide you with an inventory of past land uses and disturbances that have occurred on your property and help you form a baseline for forest management activities.

To observe and record your land’s history you should take along a camera, your base map with property boundaries marked, a tree identification guide, and a notebook.

Photos are very helpful in identifying and understanding your forest and can be a great tool when communicating with a forester about land management objectives. In your notebook, record where you take each photo. You may even want to mark your map with photo locations. That way, you’ll have a ready-made ID list when your film is developed.

Make the most of your walk in the

woods. Bring a companion, lots of water

and maybe a picnic lunch!

photo: photos.com


29

Topo maps, aerial photos and soil

surveys are the basic tools of forest

management planning. They are

helpful in locating your property and

marking its boundaries and unique

landscape features.

The information that follows

describes how to obtain these

resources. This information assumes

you know the general location

of your property (i.e. county and

proximity of your property to

specific roads, waterways, etc.)

Topo maps are available for the

entire U.S. Aerial photos and soil

surveys are not available for all

locations. The resources listed are

not exhaustive, but include the most

common methods to obtain the

maps you need.

How to obtain a topographic map, aerial photo and soil survey for your property

topographic mapsUS Geological Survey (USGS) 7.5 minute topo quadrant maps are considered the most useful for forest management planning. Each 7.5 minute quad covers about 50 square miles (32,000 acres). Topo maps are useful for identifying elevation changes, aspect, roads and structures.

Cost: Approximately $5 plus shipping for each 7.5 Minute map. Internet resources: The most comprehensive source for ordering maps (and aerial photos) on the internet is the USGS website: www.usgs.gov. Locate the map finder section of the website and follow the instructions provided. You can also view maps free of charge at www.terraserver.com, but these are low resolution and difficult to read when printed.

A related site: mapping.usgs.gov (note: no www) is an excellent source for mapping products, too.

Other resources: Many camping supply stores and outfitters carry topo maps for the area. A listing of stores near you can be found at: mapping.usgs.gov/esic/usimage/dealers.html (note: no www)

University libraries and government agencies may also have topo maps to copy or for purchase.

aerial photographsPhotos are available in black/white or infrared color in a variety of “photo scales.” For general forest management planning, photo scales are

very useful because they show different types of plants and vegetation.

Cost: Varies by type: $15 - $60, plus shipping.Internet resources: A comprehensive internet source is www.usgs.gov. Aerial photos can also be viewed free at www.terraserver.com.

Photocopies of aerial photographs can be obtained through your local Natural Resources Conservation Service or Kentucky Division of Forestry.

soil surveysU.S. Department of Agriculture Soil Surveys are generally completed for an entire county (or large cities) and contain soil maps, soil descriptions and soil properties information for land use management. Soil surveys provide information on land productivity and potential for agriculture, forestry and development uses. Recent soil surveys may also include aerial photos with an overlay of soil type boundaries.

Cost: If available, soil surveys are free.Internet resources: Very few soil surveys are available via the internet.

Field resources:Your best source for obtaining a soil survey is your local Natural Resources Conservation Service District Office. A directory of county conservation districts is included in the Contacts Appendix. It’s also online at http://www.ky.nrcs.usda.gov/main1/kentucky_state_directory.htm.

29


30

instructions1. Suggested tools to bring with you: camera, pen, paper and tree ID guide. (a great pocket version is Tree Finder (May Theilgaard Watts), $3.50 from www.naturestudy.com.2. Take a walk through the forested and open land of your property. As you walk look for evidence of human use and natural disturbances. Record your observations even if they are obvious. Your record will be helpful if you decide to harvest or make land improvements. It will also assist your family or future owners in carrying out management plans. 3. Use the back of this sheet or another piece of paper or draw a rough map of your property. When you record disturbance or land use in the table below, also note the location on your map. Also note water bodies, roads, caves or significant land features. When you’re finished, you will have a rough timeline of your property and its past use. 4. You may want to combine the information and photos you collect here with a topo map or aerial photo. Affix photos or your notes to the corresponding area on the topo map. It may be an activity the entire family wants to participate in. With a little guidance, kids can learn a lot about the surrounding forest. Their curiosity is particularly useful for observing nature’s clues.

Reading your LandAdapted from the Virginia Forest Landowner Education Program, Dylan Jenkins

Building/foundatio

n

Dam/pond

Fence/wall/rock pile

RoadUtility (E

G: gas or power lin

e)

Drainage

ditch

FarmingGullies/so

il erosion

Orchard

Cut/pruned limbs

Logging ro

ad/trail

Planted trees/ro

ws

Scars o

n bark

StumpsStre

ams or ponds

Damaged leaves

Needle or leaf d

ecline

Peeling bark

Tree decline/death

Exposed or rotten wood

Broken tree lim

bs/tree tops

Blown over trees

Crooked tree tru

nks

Beaver dams/ponds

Heavy deer browse

Nests/dens

human use/disturbance natural disturbance

structures agriculture forestry water insect/disease weather wildlife

past land use and disturbance

30

location, date and size(of each disturbance) Stre

ambank erosion

Caves or sinkholes

Charred bark or lim

bs

Bridges/other water cr

ossings


31

values assessment: developing your goals and objectives

Manage Your Forest InvestmentDeveloping Land Management Goals and Objectives

Why Plan?

The ABC’s of Management Planning


32


33

Developing Land Management Goals and ObjectivesIf you’ve taken the steps to map and walk your forested land, then you’re on your way to a well thought out management plan. You should take great pride in having part of Kentucky’s wonderful woodlands under your management direction.

Whether you purchased or inherited your land, you’ve probably given a lot of thought to the possibilities it provides: wildlife habitat, income potential and various types of recreation. One of the biggest challenges of developing management objectives will be to prioritize your interests in the forest’s many uses. It’s also important to discuss your wishes with your family—especially if you would like them to take a part in seeing through your long term vision of the forest.

A values assessment is really just a matter of thinking through and writing down what land and water features are important to you and why. It will help you (along with a forester or other professional) chart a course of action that meets your needs and desires now and into the future.

Included in this chapter are tools to help with your values assessment. Even if you plan on working with a professional forester, these activities will be very helpful in both thinking through and communicating your objectives.

The first worksheet, “Prioritizing your

Objectives”, lists various activities and a range of income-producing options. It should be helpful in thinking through your current needs and long-term desires. Think of this stage as the “why” portion of your management plan.

The second worksheet, “Family Resource Inventory”, asks questions that will be helpful in determining if your long term goals and objectives are achievable given resources you have at hand. Your daughter and son-in-law with six kids may not have time to help you map and inventory all 130 acres. Likewise, if your son is an ATV enthusiast you may consider permanent stream crossings to protect stream dwellers like small mouth bass.

When assessing the tangible and intangible values of your property, it’s important to remember that in time, both types of value will increase. With each passing year and good management, your trees will increase in size, wildlife will be more abundant, soil conditions can improve and you’ll see more opportunities for recreation.

Other Informed Decision Making ToolsThe focus of this handbook is to help you

better understand the many values of your forest land and the importance

of planning to meet your immediate needs and long term goals. It does not aim to cover the technical aspects of silviculture or the

mechanics of a forest inventory, timber cruise or timber sale. There

are state agencies and consulting professionals who can help with those

activities. There are also programs that offer financial assistance on a cost-share basis for planning and management of your forest. See the “Contacts” section of the Appendix.

“In laboratory

research, visual expo-

sure to settings with trees has

produced significant recovery from

stress within five minutes, as indicated

by changes in blood pressure and muscle

tension.”

Dr. Roger S. Ulrich Texas A&M University

Value by

definition does not

have to mean monetary

gain, but can also mean

the intangible benefits derived

from the natural resources

within your forest.

“Healthy,

mature trees add

an average of 10 percent

to a property’s value.”

USDA Forest Service

“The net

cooling effect of a

young, healthy tree is

equivalent to ten room-size air

conditioners operating

20 hours a day.”

U.S. Department of Agriculture


34

1Trees make effective sound barriers.Trees muffle urban noise almost as

effectively as stone walls. Trees,

planted at strategic points in

a neighborhood or around your

house, can abate major noises from

freeways and airports.

Trees produce oxygen.A mature leafy tree produces as

much oxygen in a season as 10

people inhale in a year.

Trees become “carbon sinks.”To produce its food, a tree absorbs

and locks away carbon dioxide, a global

warming suspect. An urban forest is a

carbon storage area that can lock up as

much carbon as it produces.

Trees shade and cool.Shade from trees reduces the need for

air conditioning in summer. In winter, trees

break the force of winter winds, lowering

heating costs. Studies have shown that

parts of cities without cooling shade from

trees can literally be “heat sinks” with

temperatures as much as 12 degrees

Fahrenheit higher than surrounding areas.

Trees act as windbreaks.During windy and cold seasons,

trees act as windbreaks. A

windbreak can lower heating bills

up to 30%. A reduction in wind

can also reduce the drying effect

on other vegetation behind the

windbreak.

Trees fight soil erosion.Trees fight soil erosion, conserve

rainwater, and reduce water runoff and

sediment deposit after storms.

Trees increase property values.Real estate values increase when trees

beautify a property or neighborhood.

Trees can increase the property value of

your home by 15% or more.

2

3

4 5

7

6Trees cleanse the air.Trees help cleanse the air by trapping

airborne particles, reducing heat and

absorbing pollutants like carbon monoxide,

sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide. Trees

remove air pollution by trapping particles and

through respiration.

8Nine Reasons to Value Trees

Trees filter water and help regulate water flow.Trees, especially their roots, help to filter underground water and

manage water flow. In wet weather trees absorb water, then

gradually release it during dry conditions.9

photo illustration: Sara Thilman


35

income wildlife habitat

recreation and

aesthetics water and soil

protection

Adapted from Forest Health—Community Wealth, North Carolina State University (Rick Hamilton) and Tennessee Forest *A*Syst:Self Assessment to Prioritize your Forest Uses.

totals:

Growing timber as an investment.

_______

Enhancing or diversifying wildlife habitat

_______

Developing a trail system forrecreation.

_______

Protecting fish and aquatic habitats.

_______

Supplementing your income through the sale of non-timber forest products.

_______

Using timber to cover planned family expenses like college or a wedding.

_______

Leaving a valuable asset for children or grandchildren.

_______

Increasing wildlife pop-ulations.

_______

Protecting threatened or endangered wild-life on your property.

_______

Observing wildlife in its natural state.

_______

Having a visually attractive forest.

_______

Going camping and hiking.

_______

Using your forest as a living laboratory to learn more about trees and wildflowers.

_______

Preserving a clean water supply for now and the future.

_______

Conserving fertile topsoil.

_______

Learning about prac-tical ways to con-serve water and protect water supply.

_______

Understanding and prioritizing your objectives is key to good forest manage-ment.

On a scale of 1 (least important) through 10 (most important), rate how inter-ested you are in the following objectives. Keep in mind this is only a sample list. If you and your family have other inter-ests not listed, you can cross out and add to this sample as needed.

When finished, total each column to help prioritize these objectives. Note that column 4 already totals 40. Water and soil protection is essential for every landowner regardless of your specific management objectives.

10

10

10

10

40

Prioritizing your Objectives

not important moderately important very important1 5 10

35


36

family member

or stakeholder name age

Family Resource InventoryAdapted from the Virginia Forest Landowner Education Program, Dylan Jenkins

physical c

apability?

income from forest p

roducts

n

eeded or desired?

distance to property?

(miles)

Bird watching

Boating/Fishing

Caving

Gardening

Hiking/Camping

Horse Riding

HuntingNature Stu

dy

Photography

Estate Planning

ForestryLegal

Skills

Plant / Tree ID

Surveying

Timber Sales

Wildlife Mgmt.

outdoor hobbies and land management skillsFamily resources

Goals and VisionWhat are the goals you have in mind for your property? It may be helpful to think of both long term and short term goals. Using those goals, try to write an overall vision statement for your property.

goal: vision:

goal:

goal:

36

Basic property informationLocation of property: Amount of forested acreage:

Date the property was acquired or inherited: Open field/agricultural acreage:


37

Why Plan?You’ve likely heard the adage that “failing to plan is planning to fail.” This is especially true of your forest management plan. Conducting a timber harvest or other management activity without a plan won’t necessarily make your harvest a failure, but it’s pretty risky. Your forest land is a valuable asset. To make the most of it— and get the most from it—you should plan accordingly.

This Handbook has taken you through the steps to map your property, walk your woodlands and set goals for the future of your forest investment. If you’ve completed these activities, you’re well on your way to developing your forest manage-ment plan. These activities were all designed so that you could conduct them with little or no assistance.

These next steps, though, are likely to require the assistance of a forest profes-sional. Read on to learn more about what else should be included in your management plan. But before you take any action, carefully consider the advantages of working with someone who is specifically skilled in forest management, timber harvesting and timber marketing. The special section on pages 46-48 provides more informa-tion about working with consulting foresters. The Handbook index also includes contact infor-mation about forest professionals working in Kentucky. Most Division of Forestry services are provided at no cost to the landowners.

The How-to’s of a Management Plan A management plan describes your property,

goals and a schedule of activities for the woods or portion of the woods. Generally the larger the acreage and the more diverse the woodlands, the more detailed the plan needs to be.

If you’re like most forest owners, you have a limited amount of time to devote to forestry work. A well thought out plan will help you utilize the time you have available to reap the best future returns. In other words, a manage-ment plan will help you set priorities for the work that needs to be accomplished.

The Who, What, When, Where, Why and How of your Management Plan:1. Map of your Property This is the “where” of your plan. The resources listed on page 29 can help you obtain a map of your property. Make sure you mark the legal boundaries, natural features like streams, coves and caves and include any signs of human disturbances.

You may also want your map to include details about the major kinds of trees and the size of trees on the wooded portion of your property. For planning purposes, it’s often helpful to treat a large or diverse forest as several unique parcels or woodlots. These divisions may separate large or mature timber areas from those areas having only pole size timber or an old field that is just restocking. In forestry terms, a group of trees that is relatively uniform in size/age or soil type/topography is called a stand.

On your map, include the approximate acreage of

STAND - An easily defined area of

the forest that is relatively uniform in

species composition or age and can be

managed as a single unit.

TIMBER CRUISE - A survey of

forestland to locate timber and estimate

its quantity by species, products, size,

quality, or other characteristics.

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38

each parcel or stand. A good way to estimate an acre is an area 209’ wide by 209’ long. For any parcel you plan on harvesting, it’s also advisable to do an inventory of the standing timber. This activity is often referred to as a timber cruise. Taking inventory of each individual tree may be more labor intensive than needed. There are statistical ways to estimate the trees in a stand. A forester can help you with this and other forms of measuring timber (called men-suration) such as point sampling and timber cruising.

It is helpful to know some of the basic terminology used in a timber cruise. Individual trees are typically measured by diam-eter at breast height or dbh. This measurement is taken 4 1/2 ’ up the tree from the ground. There are measurement sticks and calipers that calculate this measurement. Or you can measure the circumference around the tree and divide it by 3.14.

Timber volumes can be expressed in cords, cubic feet or the most commonly-used term—board feet. Volume mea-surements attempt to estimate the number of square feet of 1” thick boards (board feet) which can be sawed out of a given log or tree. Technically a board foot is a unit of wood mea-suring 144 cubic inches. A 1-inch by 12-inch shelving board that is 1 foot long is equal to 1 board foot.

2. Management Goals and Objectives

This is the “why” section of your plan. This can be a few short sentences about your goals and expectations from your forestland. If you complete the activity worksheets Prioritizing your Objectives and Family Resource Inventory

on pages 35 and 36 you’ve got most of your bases covered.

Include any pertinent details that may dictate forest activ-ity. For example, if you plan on using income from timber to offset tuition costs for your youngest son, include this and the year he plans on starting college. Even if you plan on working with a forestry professional, it’s up to you to communicate your goals and objectives. In turn, a professional will tailor their advice to best meet your needs.

3. Management Activities and TimelineThis section, describing the “what,” “how”and “when” is the meat of your manage-ment plan.

Using the corresponding map, you will specify your management goal or priority and a course of action for each woodland parcel or stand. There are several case studies at the end of this chapter that provide examples of the landowner’s priority and the management activities recommended.

MENSURATION or BIOMETRICS

The measurement and calculation of

volume, growth, and development of

individual trees or stands and their

timber products.

photo: Sara Thilman

Core sampling is a common method used

to accurately identify the age of a tree.

In addition to counting the tree rings, it

also gives indication of growth spurts or

stunts often due to weather conditions.

A good resource for various topics

related to forest measurement and assessment is http://www.forestry.uga.edu/warnell/html/

service/library/.

Select Forest Economics and Taxes,

then Forest Economics and

Assessing Various Community Tree and Forest Values With Inventories.

h

h

BOARD FOOT VOLUME is determined by:

length (feet) x width (inches) x thickness

(inches)/divided by 12.

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39

Determining the right management activities to accomplish your goals is as much art as it is science. That is why you should work with a natural resource or forestry professional. Contact information for this type of professional technical assistance is listed in the appendix of this handbook. Even when working with a professional, it’s helpful to have some understanding of management measures and techniques.

Intermediate Cutting PracticesThe average forested tract in Kentucky is less than 50 acres and is a community of small, intermediate and large-size trees. Under natural growing conditions, trees may grow too close together and require intermediate treatment if maximum growth is one of your objectives. The following activities are often recommended as part of timber stand improvement.

Crop Tree Management can create a break in the forest canopy that allows sunlight to reach smaller trees. These openings can increase the age distribution and species diversity within the stand. As certain trees are harvested, others have the ability to grow in the new openings. Intermediate cutting practices are then carried out during the life of a stand.

Cleaning is a cutting made in a stand of trees in the age range of 1 to 20 years, to free the best trees from undesirable individuals of the same age which are or may overtop them. This practice helps regulate species composition to favor the better, or more commercially valuable species.

In Kentucky there is typically enough species diversity that this practice isn’t needed.

Release Cutting is a cutting made in a stand of trees between the ages of 1 to 20 years,

to reduce competition of older over-topping trees. The older trees you

take out may be good species but of poor form. Crooked

or damaged trees are not commercially valuable, but block sunlight. So they are sometimes cleared to promote the growth of younger trees.

Thinning reduces the number of trees per acre. This practice

stimulates tree growth while con-centrating wood production on a

limited number of selected trees. The frequency of thinnings during the life of a stand of trees depends on the tree species being grown and site productivity. Yellow-poplar trees growing on a good site may have a cutting cycle of 8-12 years. Upland oak species growing on a good site might have a cutting cycle of 6-9 years. There are several types of thinnings including selection thinning, crown thinning, etc. Improvement Cutting is a cutting in a stand of trees which are 20 years of age or older. The purpose of the practice is to improve tree com-position and tree quality by removing trees of undesirable species, form or condition from the main canopy. This practice often includes grapevine removal. Trees may be harvested if a market exists or merely cut or chemically treated and left standing. One improvement cutting may be sufficient to put the stand into condition or several cuttings over a period of years may be

There is no

prescriptive measure that applies

to all situations. If a logger knocks on

your door and offers you a set amount of

money for your timber, it’s safe to say they don’t

have your best interest in mind. Don’t impulsively be

swayed by the offer of cash. Many Kentucky landown-

ers have made that mistake. You risk the health

of your trees, water, soil and the future of your

forest. What’s more, you probably won’t get

fair market value for your timber.


40

required. Improvement cuttings should precede a harvest cut by at least 10 years so the full benefit can be obtained from the release of the better trees.

Pruning removes tree branches to increase the quality of the wood. Trees usually pruned are pine species and black walnut. Normally in pruning pine species, at least 30% of the total tree height needs to be left in live crown to maintain maximum growth. With walnut trees, at least 50% of the total height should be left in live crown. Prune trees when they are young. It is recommended that crop trees be selected and pruned when 5 or 6 inches in diameter. Remove limbs flush with the tree trunk. Once the wound has healed over, new growth is clear and the tree is of higher value.

Harvesting PracticesIf your management plan calls for a timber harvesting, you will likely wait until trees are mature. Tree maturity varies with tree species, site productivity, climate conditions and the product to be grown. There are two different types of maturity for a tree-- financial and biological.

Financial maturity requires that the landowner attaches a dollar value to growing trees. If the expected value increase of a tree

no longer equals or exceeds the desired rate of return, then the tree should be removed and replaced with a younger tree.

Biological maturity is the age a tree reaches before beginning to deteriorate. Evidence of decline includes dead tops, insect damage, rot, etc. The financial maturity of Yellow-poplar on a good site may be 72 years, yet its biolog-ical maturity may be 200-250 years.

If you plan on managing your forest for wildlife, recreation, soil health or aesthetics, you may choose not to harvest at all. A dead standing tree, called a snag, creates habitat for many types of wildlife. Likewise, trees left to naturally decay “feed” nutrients back into the soil.

Selective Cutting involves the harvesting of mature trees (dominant and co-dominant) on a periodic basis. This practice protects the site during and after logging and is aestheti-cally pleasing. Selective cutting favors shade tolerant species such as maple, beech, gum and hemlock. You can selectively harvest a single tree or groups of trees.

Beware of anyone who suggests you selectively remove all of the most valu-able trees. This practice,

Harvest Practices

clearcut

single tree selection

These illustrations show two of

the primary ways to harvest:

single tree (or selective cut) and

clearcut. If your management

plan calls for aesthetics or

recreation that requires forest

cover, you should avoid doing

any clearcuts.

photo illustrations: Shari Hawley

HIGH GRADING - A harvesting tech-

nique that is detrimental to the long

term health and value of your forest.

High grading removes only the biggest

and most valuable trees from a stand,

leaving a residual stand of trees in poor

condition or poor species composition.

Historically many forest stands in Ken-

tucky were harvested this way. In order

to increase the productivity and integ-

rity of our forests, a more enlightened

approach to harvesting is necessary.

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41

commonly known as high-grading, is detri-mental to the health of your forest. By removing the most valuable trees, you deplete the genetic stock of your woodlands. To use a farm analogy, it is like selling off your best bull. When done properly, a selective harvest is done with an eye toward the future and removes a mix of good quality and low quality trees.

Clearcutting is used when a for-ester determines that an entire stand of trees is ready to be regenerated. Reasons for clearcutting may include insect/disease damage, natural disasters or when the stand is simply financially mature. In its purest sense, a clearcut involves the felling of all woody stems 2 inches and larger. Softwood clearcuts are generally replanted, while hardwood clearcuts will regenerate from seed and sprouts. The use of BMPs is critical when using clearcutting, but when executed properly, clearcuts are a widely accepted silvicultural method for stand regenera-tion.

Salvage Cutting is made for the purpose of removing trees killed or damaged by insects, disease, wind, etc. It may involve complete or partial removal of a stand. Salvage cutting can pose the same threats to soil and water as clearcutting if conducted on a large or unstable area.

Shelterwood Cutting involves the gradual removal of a stand in a series of partial cuttings over a period of 10–20 years. Natural repro-duction from seed and sprouts starts under

the protection of the older stand and is finally released when able to endure exposure.

Approximately 10–30% of the tree volume is removed in each pre-

paratory cutting. This method establishes a new crop before

older trees are removed. Young trees are fragile though, and can be easily damaged when harvesting if the cutter is not careful.

Non-Timber Forest Management

AlternativesNot all forest management goals

will call for timber harvest. Forests can be managed for non-timber forest products, wildlife, recreation and aesthetics. Though these practices may not yield profits comparable to timber harvesting, they can provide steady and reliable income.

Non-timber forest products may include the cultivation of herbs and medicinals such as ginseng and goldenseal; harvesting of specialty foods such as shiitake mushrooms, maple syrup, nuts or honey; collecting of handicraft materials like floral greenery, natural dyes and pigments, grape vines, basket making materials and associ-ated wood products; and collecting firewood or fencepost material. See spotlight section on Page 49.

You may be interested in wildlife management for hunting or nature/bird watching. Depending on your situation, a management professional may recommend some of the following practices to promote wildlife habitat: thinning; prescribed burning; den and mast tree selection; ground cover establishment; and planting wildlife food plots. Keep in mind that any new species planted

The forests of Central Appalachia boast a

wide diversity of deciduous trees (trees

that typically lose their leaves during

some part of the year). Also known as

hardwoods, they have broad, flat leaves as

opposed to coniferous or needled trees.

At the turn of the

century, clearcuts were a common

form of harvesting. Ecologists now realize the disadvantages of large area

clearcuts far outweigh the benefits. Not only

are they unpleasant to look at, but clearcuts strip

away the forest cover and leave the soil bare. Erosion

and runoff carry soil away from where it’s needed

and deposit it in streams and waterways. This

process pollutes your water and can actu-

ally change the micro-climate of the

area.

photo: Sara Thilman


42

should be native to that specific forest type. In general, large unfragmented parcels of land provide safe corridors for wildlife habitat and migration. Keep in mind that the need for Land and Water Protection Measures (see Appendix) still applies.

Recreation may factor into your management decision. For centuries, forests have supported activities like hiking, camping, horseback riding and fishing. Some people own their forestland specifically for recreation purposes. Others may manage for recreation purposes that could provide an income. Eco-tourism—attracting visitors who sustain and enhance the char-acter of the place being visited—is the largest growing segment of the tourism industry.

Recreational uses can have their drawbacks, too. As a landowner, you carry the burden of liability and the risk of “uninvited guests” trespassing. One of the most damaging forms of recreation comes from off-road vehicles. Although popular, their emissions and heavy impacts on soil, water and the forest understory can wreak havoc on the environment.

You may choose to manage the forest in harmony with its natural course. Areas allowed to “natu-ralize” are not only aesthetically pleasing, but promote diversity and forest health. Parcels of property can also be set aside for restoration. Areas along stream banks can be managed to stabilize the soil and vegetation, thereby offset-ting erosion. Forest restoration can increase the variety of wildlife and forest understory plants, too.

Timing of Forestry ActivitiesIf you have trees ready for a commercial harvest

or plan on conducting timber stand improvement, you need to time your harvest according to a couple of factors.

The first is weather. Harvesting operations should be carried out when the least damage will be done to soil and water. In Kentucky, har-vesting should take place during the driest times of the year, usually between July and September. Avoid the Spring if possible. This is growing season for trees so they’re more vulnerable to damage. Extremely wet weather also poses a hazard. If you’re contracting with someone to do the logging, be sure to specify—and include in the contract—alternate provisions for poor weather conditions.

Economics of the timber market is another impor-tant harvest consideration. Timber markets are highly variable, since they are related to economic fluctuations like interest rates and con-sumer preference. Timber harvest can be delayed if prices are low and resumed again when market values rise. If you choose to work with a con-sulting forester, they will advise you of market conditions and the best times to harvest.

The Land and Water Protection Measures in the Appendix provide in-depth discussion of safe-guards for all phases of a harvest operation.

4. Who will conduct management activities?

Harvesting Timber Yourself If you have some forestry experience you may choose to harvest timber yourself. Be wise about this though. Logging was recently ranked as the most dangerous occupation in the country, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Harvesting timber—even with reliable equip-ment—is very labor intensive. Don’t jump into

If you are interested in learning more

about the economics of the timber market, check out the Hardwood

Market Report, www.hmr.com or

contact the University of Kentucky’s

Forest Extension office http://

forestry2.ca.uky.edu/extens.htm.

photo: photos.com

A survey by Ducks Unlimited® revealed

that 44% of Americans participated in

some level of bird watching and more

than half of all Americans enjoy viewing

wildlife when away from home.

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43

a large scale operation. Plan on cutting a few trees over the course of many years, rather than harvesting all of the desired trees at once. Smaller-scale logging can be carried out with horses, mules or small trac-tors, which can cause much less damage than large equipment. In the Preharvest Appendix there is more information about alter-native harvest methods that are available for small-scale opera-tions. Even with these lower impact methods, you still need to follow Land and Water Protection Measures (Appendix) to protect the surrounding trees, soil and water.

Do-it-yourself logging requires do-it-yourself marketing. Marketing involves preparing a timber sale notice, making it available to various bidders, and preparing a timber sale contract. Not all saw-mills are willing to buy small lots of timber. Don’t make the mistake of cutting your trees first, then trying to find a buyer, as logs can be considered a “per-ishable” commodity.

Harvesting timber yourself can be satisfying and financially reward-ing. It is a good feeling to know you remain in control of your forest resources. Landowners who have harvested their own timber say that it is a learning process. Some offer the suggestion of working with a small-scale opera-tor first—maybe an experienced friend, neighbor or specialty har-

vester like a horse logger—to learn the ropes. Your local state conservation district or service forester may be able to help you make these contacts.

Who can Help with My Timber Harvest?It is important to note the dif-ference between a logger and a professional forester. A logger cuts down trees, cuts them into logs and transports them to a processing plant. A logger is primarily focused on how to extract timber from the forest. Since many loggers take a cut or percentage of the yield, they are interested in maximizing the yield and minimizing the costs. At times, these short-term objectives may be in conflict with your long-term goals.

By contrast, a professional for-ester is trained in all aspects of forestry and forest man-agement. Their training is in the applied science of repro-ducing and growing a forest in order to fulfill stated man-agement objectives. A forester can help you assess your current forest and develop a plan to reach your future goals. A forester can be a necessary middle person between you and the logger. If it is necessary to hire a logger to harvest timber, it is important to have a profes-

Horse Logging

photo: Sara Thilman

Horse, mule and ox logging

were common practices before

there were engine-powered

alternatives.

Horse logging allows for a

smaller impact area, so there is

less disturbance to the forest

than when harvesting is done

with mechanized equipment. A

good team of horses can offer a

logger lots of control for partial

cuts, moving timber around trees

that are left to grow without

damaging them.

There are considerable

differences between horse

logging and heavy equipment.

For instance, a draft horse

weighs about 1,900 pounds;

a rubber-tired skidder weighs

about 10,000 pounds. Horse

logging advocates also point out

that a horse can be maintained

for a year for less than it costs to

buy one skidder tire.

A logger is primarily interested in

extracting timber from the forest. A

forester is trained in all aspects of

forest management. Regardless of your

goals, a professional forester can help

you plan and manage your woodland

accordingly.

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44

sional forester work with you to assure the management practices (see Land and Water Protection Measures) performed are in line with state requirements and most importantly, the goals you set.

The Kentucky Forest Conservation Act requires that every commercial logging oper-ation in Kentucky have a trained Master Logger on-site and in charge at all times. Don’t be afraid to ask a logger to see his credentials.

The Kentucky Division of Forestry staffs nine district offices across the state to assist the landowner with prepara-

tion of forest management plans, obtaining cost-sharing assistance, tree planting recom-mendations, marking timber for timber stand improvement practices and for harvest. In most cases there is no charge for the services of a state forester. The Kentucky Division of Forestry 627 Comanche Trail Frankfort, KY 40601 Phone: (502) 564-4496 Fax: (502) 564-6553 or http://www.forestry.ky.gov

State foresters may not have enough time avail-able to satisfy your needs. In that case, you may choose to work with a consulting forester, whose principal business is working with landowners to help achieve their goals. Since a consulting forester works for you and is paid by you, their primary interest is your satisfaction. A complete contact list can be found in the Contact section of the Appendix.

Kentucky also staffs 121 conservation districts that can help with various aspects of con-servation and stewardship, including soil interpretations, appraising existing woodlands, assisting with site productivity, tree species,

stocking and values for wildlife, recreation, etc. The Kentucky Division of Conservation 663 Teton Trail Frankfort, KY 40601, (502)564-3080 or http://www.environment.ky.gov/nrepc/dnr/conserve/doc2.htm.

The University of Kentucky, through the Cooperative Extension Service, provides educa-tional services such as workshops and individual assistance and makes available the results of research and other information through its many publications. These services are avail-able through the County Extension Agent in each county. Learn more about their services (859)257-7611, http://www.uky.edu/Agriculture/Forestry/forestry.html.

Prior to timber harvest, you should also contact your attorney and accountant. Have your attor-ney review any logger or forester contracts before you sign them. Likewise, contact your accountant to better understand the tax implications before you harvest. Tax on harvested timber will affect the bottom line of your harvest operation, so you should factor it in from the beginning.

In Kentucky, every commercial logging

operation must have a Master Logger

on-site. Ask to see this card to

verify that any operator you hire has

completed the required training and

certification.


45

Before you Harvest. . .protect your interests.

1. Seek the advice of a trusted attorney.It is important to seek the advice of the forestry profes-sionals, either at state agencies or a private consulting firm who can help you plan for a harvest. Description of the services they provide is on the following page.

It is equally important for you to seek the advice of an attorney who can prepare for you a timber sale contract. Timber sale contracts are not complicated or lengthy and no fine print is necessary. A trusted local attorney can use the sample provided in this handbook on page A-62 to draft a contract which meets your specific needs. Take the Landowner’s Handbook with you to show the attorney exactly which management practices are to be referenced in your contract.

2. Don’t be talked out of using a contract.Too many Kentucky landowner’s have made the mistake of entering into a logging agreement on a verbal under-standing and a firm handshake. The logger and the landowner are both well advised to have a clear written understanding of the terms of the logging project, includ-ing the timber harvest management practice standards to be used by the logger.

The prudent landowner will have no problem addressing both his financial and ecological concerns with the logger if a proper timber sale contract is prepared. Don’t be persuaded to enter into a verbal logging agreement. Any ethical logger understands that you have a legal right to a signed written contract to avoid misunderstandings. If a logger is attempting to talk you out of using the timber sale contract, that is the first red flag letting you know that you may be talking with the wrong logger.

3. Who should pay for the contract?First, the timber sale contract is not an expensive legal

document. By reviewing the sample on page A-62, you will notice that the contract is not lengthy or complicated. Read this sample contract thoroughly before visiting your attorney. Your advance preparation will likely limit his or her time to a couple of hours. This will be a minor cost of the overall timber harvesting project. By accepting the responsibility of paying for the binding timber sale contract, you get the comfort of knowing your interests are protected. The old saying, ‘’an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” is applicable here.

The cost of a simple contract is only a fraction of the cost of property damage or a dispute over timber sales proceeds.

4. Can I just use the contract in the Handbook?The contract in the handbook is only an example. You are encouraged to use the sample contract as a basis for discussion and consultation with an attorney of your choosing. The drafting of a binding contract should be done by an attorney whom you trust. The sample is not intended to be used by you without first consulting with your attorney.

45


46

Do you need a consulting forester?A consulting forester is your personal representative who is working to help solve your forestry-related problems. If you answer “yes” to any of the following questions, then you want to consider employing a consulting forester:

Do you have timber you want to sell and want to get the best possible price while still protecting your property?

Do you need someone who is on your side to help you manage a timber sale?

Do you need help in contacting reputable potential timber buyers and in drawing up and monitoring a

timber sale contract so that your interests and prop-erty are adequately protected?

Do you need to know how much timber you have and its value, either for a timber sale, for buying or selling land, or for tax purposes?

Has someone stolen timber from your property? Did you know you may be able to receive triple

damages if the people who illegally removed your trees didn’t give you prior notification of their inten-

tion to harvest trees next to your boundary?

Will you be involved in any type of legal proceedings regarding forestland?

Do you need professional forest planning assistance?

These are some of the most common reasons a landowner wishes to employ a consulting forester. A consulting for-ester is able to advise and assist you with any problem con-nected with timber or the management of your woodland.

What services does a consulting forester provide? 1. Timber Sales - A consulting forester knows timber and stays current on timber markets. He knows who buys what kinds of products in your area and knows what kind of job they do. He can get you the best price for your timber and make sure that your woods, your land, and your interests are protected. Included in this may be:

Timber Marking - By selectively marking your timber for you, a consultant helps you sell only those trees which are mature or need to be harvested at this time. This will leave your better, younger trees to grow for the future. By pre-selecting the trees to be removed and not leaving the choice to a timber buyer, you will be able to help preserve the beauty of your woods to enjoy in future generations.

Timber Cruising - If timber marking is not needed or wanted, the consultant can cruise your timber to tell you exactly how much volume and the grade of what you have to sell.

Appraisals - The consultant can tell you what your timber should be worth and then help you get the most for it when you sell it.

Sale Representation - The consultant can represent you in the actual timber sale, from beginning to end, including:

a. Drawing up a timber sale contract to meet your specific situation

b. Advertising the timber c. Contacting the appropriate buyers d. Showing the timber to buyers e. Opening bids f. Awarding the timber sale contract.

The consultant can also make logging inspections to see that the contract is being followed and that your woods and property are being protected.

A consultingforester serves you in

professional ability, technical training,

broad experience, honesty, integrity and in

their desire to serve no one’s interest but that of

their client.

Materials on consulting foresters provided by the

Kentucky Association of Consulting Foresters. Learn

more about the services to expect from a consulting

forester at http://www.acf-foresters.com/

or locate a consulting forester in your area at

http://www.kacf.org/ or in the Contact

section of the Appendix.

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2. Forest Management Planning - A consultant can meet with you and help you plan the future of your forestland. A properly managed forest not only provides timber benefits, but also natural beauty, wildlife, recreation and high quality water. After determining your personal goals and objectives, the consultant can walk over your property with you and help you prepare a professional plan to help meet your woodland goals for the future.

3. Trespass Investigations - Did you know that under a recent Kentucky law (KRS 364-130), if someone crosses your property line and cuts timber on your property without your permission that you are entitled to receive triple damages in court? This law applies if the logger or adjacent landowner did not notify you in advance of their intention to harvest. A consultant can estimate the volume and value of any timber illegally cut or removed from your property and then help you recover damages.

4. Expert Witness Testimony - In cases of timber trespass, theft, or other legal issues related to forestland, a consultant can provide expert witness testimony in court on your behalf.

5. Other Services - Consultants may also provide other services such as vendor services for tree planting, site preparation, or timber stand improvement. Consultants may also provide or assist in environmental impact studies, ecological assessments and a great variety of other things which may in some way be related to forestland.

What are consulting forester fees?Consultant-handled timber sales and related work are usu-ally done for a percentage of the sale price of the timber. Because of the consultant’s knowledge and experience in timber and his knowledge of the local buyers and markets, the consultant will nearly always make a landowner more than the cost of his fee as compared to a landowner handling a sale on his or her own.

Not only does the consultant get the landowner more

money, the consultant’s knowledge of logging practices, contracts, and sale procedures will assure the landowners’ interests are protected with professional care. When a forest is mistreated or cut improperly, it may take a genera-tion or more to recover. In all fee arrangements, the ser-vices of a KACF Consulting Forester offer clear advantages of economy without conflict of interest.

Consultant fees for activities other than timber sales depend on the type of job, travel distance and the amount of time required.

The Kentucky Division of Forestry

The Mission Statement of the division reads, “To protect and enhance the forest resources of the Commonwealth through a public informed of the environmental and economic importance of these resources.”

To achieve this mission, the division operates eleven distinct programs: Forest Stewardship Program, Forest Fire Prevention and Control, Reforestation and Nurseries, Urban and Community Forestry Program, Forest Health Program, State Forest Administration, Forest Inventory and Analysis, Forest Resource Education Program, Timber Harvest Compliance, The Kentucky Forest Conservation Act, and the Kentucky Master Logger Program.

Many of these programs are extremely important to all Kentucky forestland owners, particularly the Forest Stewardship Program. The Division of Forestry pro-vides this, and many other services, free of charge.

Landowners with 10 or more acres of forestland are eli-gible to participate in the Forest Stewardship Program.

Financial assis-tance cost-share programs

to help landowners with land man-

agement and conservation practices are

available for a variety of activities including:

reforestation, timber stand improvement, soil

and water protection, riparian area protection,

wildlife habitat improvement and tree planting. To

learn more about the various programs and eli-

gibility contact the Division of Forestry at

(502) 564-4496 or www.forestry.ky.gov/

stewardship_web_cost_share.asp

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However, planning and technical assistance is not denied to landowners with fewer than 10 acres of forestland.

The landowner is asked to choose primary and secondary management objectives from four options on the applica-tion. Depending on the choices and their ranking, the forester visits the property and may be accompanied by a wildlife biologist and/or a representative from the local conservation district.

An assessment is made of the forest resources on the property and coupled with the landowner objectives to create a Forest Stewardship Plan specific to that landowner and that property.

Follow-up technical assistance is available to help the landowner implement the recommendations in the Plan and cost-share financial assistance may be available to help cover the costs of implementa-tion.

Some state agency policy limitations exist, such as a maximum of three field days to make the initial exam/assessment, 50 acres per landowner per year for timber marking, no timber appraisals, no direct involvement in private timber sales, and broad scale prohibitions against any activities that might lead to litigation.

There are nine district offices across the Commonwealth and 40 professional foresters whose primary duties include technical and cost-share assistance to private forestland owners in the state through the Forest Stewardship Program.

What are my other alternatives?Some private forest products companies or sawmills also employ professional foresters who may provide forest man-agement services to private landowners. At no time can a forester working for a private company be reasonably expected to provide a service which would compromise his company’s interests, though. If someone shows up at your home, unsolicited, it is likely they are representing someone else’s interests.

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Non-Timber Forest ProductsBy Deborah Hill, University of Kentucky ExtensionThis article was originally printed in Permaculture Activist and is reprinted with permission.

Nontimber forest products involve an existing forest or woodland, and intentionally cropping something other than trees. The practice may or may not involve cultivation—the intention is to manage the forest for nontimber crops. This kind of cropping can be done in any kind of forest and has been traditional in many parts of the world. With careful planning, forest farming can be done in conjunction with other agroforestry practices.

Forest farmed products include mushrooms, botanicals of medicinal or culinary value, fruits and nuts, craft materials, maple and other syrups, and baled pine straw. Other, more traditional wood products such as fenceposts and fuelwood are also possibilities, while the raising of honeybees (apiculture) is yet another option. Exotic MushroomsWild mushrooms that can be found in temperate woods include morels, chanterelles, boletes and honey mushrooms along with several other edible species. Most of these are only seasonally available, and one must be VERY sure that the mushrooms in question are the edible ones—not look-alikes that may be poisonous!

Other high quality mushrooms that can be forest-farmed include culinary mushrooms like shiitake, maitake or Hen-of-the-woods, oyster mushrooms and a primarily medicinal mushroom, reishi. The majority of these mushrooms grow in wood fiber and can be inoculated into small diameter (3-5 inch) logs.

Production of these mushrooms can return enough economic benefit to justify thinning and culling forest stands to upgrade the quality and improve the health of the remaining trees. Because small logs are preferred for mushroom production, large branches can be used as well as small diameter trees.

Shiitake and oyster mushrooms are probably the most familiar of the exotic mushrooms. These, along with Lion’s mane, reishi, and maitake can be inoculated into drilled holes in logs harvested during the dormant season (November-February in the central U.S.A.). The objective is to inject the active mycelium or “root” of these fungi into the wood that they will ultimately consume at a time when it contains the maximum amount of sugars. This season begins when the tree is shutting down for the winter—having shed its leaves—and runs through the time it gears up again in the spring, preparing for the new year’s growth.

Trees used for this purpose must be alive at the time of cutting. Even though the fungi feed on dead wood, it is important to get the desirable mycelium into the wood before some other bacterium or fungus begins the decay process. Log lengths vary, but most people cut lengths they find easy to handle. All my experimental work has been done with logs 39 inches long, but other people have worked with logs both longer and shorter. Cutting logs shorter than 24 inches could create problems with the mushroom spawn drying out.

Once the logs have been inoculated and sealed, they need to be placed in a relatively cool, moist environment for the fungi to grow (run) through the entire log. Ideally this would be a wooded site with some mixture of conifers (so that there is some shade year round), and near a water source. Monitoring the moisture content of the logs is important; supplemental watering may be necessary in hot, dry weather. Production usually begins 6 to 18 months after inoculation and continues seasonally with the right combination of moisture and temperature. The logs usually

Farming the forest

provides many options for

annual (maple syrup, crafts, some botan-

icals, mushrooms) and longer-term (fuelwood,

fenceposts, ginseng) commodities, along with the pos-

sibility of timber crops. Production of these commodities

may involve altering the forest canopy (shade for mushrooms

and botanicals, crown spread for apiculture and maple syrup)

or making changes in the forest floor (sowing medicinals such as

ginseng and goldenseal, inoculating for morels or stropharia). Many

of these options could also be implemented in the tree rows of

alley crop plantations, as well as in the selection of species for

windbreaks and riparian buffer strips. One or more of these

options can provide annual cash flow and can be managed by

various member of a family. Implementing several of them

will bring greater biodiversity to the existing forest,

thereby enhance its health, while supplement-

ing annual income from the land.

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produce about 10% of their original weight in mushrooms over their productive life. Shiitake logs can be sterilized and reinoculated with oyster mushrooms when the shiitake production declines.

Markets are available and increasing in many parts of the country. If you expect to sell mushrooms, however, it is important to locate your own markets before inoculating any logs. The fungi that do not grow on logs—stropharia and morels—grow on the forest floor. Stropharia can be “seeded” into wood chip beds in the forest and watered like a garden until they begin to produce mushrooms. Even though these mushrooms can grow to remarkable sizes (big enough for a child to sit on!), they are marketed when relatively small—roughly the size of large commercial button mushrooms.

Morels are a little trickier to grow—their life cycle is known, but it is still difficult to produce them at will. Kits are available, and at least two companies are producing morels commercially under controlled indoor conditions. They too require a prepared bed on the forest floor and need to be kept moist until they produce. Under outside conditions they will only produce in season, which is late spring to early summer. Botanicals and MedicinalsEvery culture has used botanicals to remedy various ills. Echinacea (purple coneflower) and St. John’s wort are now commercially available. Less common, but highly regarded forest-based herbs include goldenseal, black cohosh, bloodroot, and blue cohosh. Tree barks from witch hazel, slippery elm and sassafras also boast healing properties.

Probably the best known and certainly most valuable botanical is American ginseng. Ginseng grown under forest conditions, so-called woods-grown, woods-cultivated, or wild-simulated, has maintained a stable price of close to $300 per pound for some time. Most of the herbaceous and shrubby botanicals are marketable for pennies to dollars per pound, and there are several national herb

companies that will buy dried material from producers. Several of these herbs can be encouraged to grow in larger patches than occur naturally, by techniques that disturb the forest soil very little. Both herbaceous medicinals and exotic mushrooms prefer a forest canopy—usually with fairly dense (75-85%) shade, so minimal alteration of the overstory is needed. As with most plant cultivation, the problems are competition for water and nutrients, so some weeding may be necessary.

Most of these herbaceous plants, especially those with marketable leaves, seeds, and fruits, bear annually. Harvesting roots may take longer. Goldenseal, from which both root and leaves are marketable (and seed for that matter), takes two or three years to develop a large enough root mass to market. Ginseng commands a high market price because it takes five to ten years to develop the kind of root that brings top dollar.

The greatest challenge in growing ginseng to fruition is keeping it until it’s big enough to sell. In the central U.S.—and the Appalachian and Ozark Mountains in particular—theft of nearly-grown ginseng is widespread. Ginseng is considered by the federal government to be a threatened plant, and its harvesting is restricted to certain months of the year and to certain ages of root, but there is considerable disregard for those laws.

Trees and shrubs from which roots (sassafras) and bark (witch hazel, slippery elm) are taken for their medicinal use, require a different kind of management. Witch hazel is best managed by cutting the stems fairly close to the ground, then stripping the bark off. Cutting the stems encourages re-sprouting while taking the bark off the standing stems would probably kill the whole plant. Slippery elm, which can grow into a large tree, can either be managed—like the witch hazel—by coppice when young, or could bear some vertical strips of bark being removed from a mature tree, as long as most of the bark is left around the trunk to keep its circulation functioning. Some of the roots of sassafras may be removed without killing the whole tree; alternately, only the smaller shoots may be harvested, roots and all.

photo: Sara Thilman

Popular mushroom varieties, like these

shiitakes, fetch prices ten times higher

than their lowly common cousin the

button mushroom. Try some of the

exotic or gourmet versions and you may

understand why people are willing to pay

so much more for these organic treats.

When in season people will spend days

“hunting” the somewhat elusive morel

mushroom. Its heavenly flavor is likened

to filet mignon!

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Fruits and NutsNative fruits and nuts are other options for forest farming, and can include such species as persimmon, pawpaw, hazelnuts, pine nuts, and walnuts. Unfortunately, one of the greatest nut trees of all time, the American chestnut, no longer grows big enough to produce nuts. It occupied some 20% of the eastern deciduous forest and was effectively wiped out by a disease, the Chestnut blight in the 1920s.

As with apiculture and maple syrup production, farming of fruiting species requires adjustment of the forest canopy (more water, nutrients, sunlight) to allow for better growth of the crop trees. This usually means removing the surrounding trees whose crowns touch the crowns of the crop trees (you can then use some of the harvested wood for mushroom production, fenceposts, or firewood for boiling maple syrup!). Crafts MaterialsWorking crafts materials as part of forest farming ranges from collecting pine cones and gilding them for decorations, or waxing them for fire starters, to selecting odd-shaped branches or burls on trees for carving. There are many plant species at all levels, from herbs to shrubs to vines to canopy trees, that may produce something harvestable for crafts. Grape vines are collected for fashioning into decorative wreaths, while small diameter 10 inches white oak saplings are the ideal size for making splints for white oak baskets. People have even made (beautiful) baskets from kudzu vines, so opportunities live greatly in the eyes of the beholder. One enterprising company injected dyes into very young pine saplings 2 inch diameter and then cuts the stems and branches into disks that were made into jewelry—the color already in them. Maple syrup and other tree sapsMaple Syrup, and syrup or “beers” made from other tree saps, have been produced for centuries in North America. Native Americans figured out how to get this sweet material long before Europeans came to this continent. A “sugar bush” is simply a forest where the owner has selected for maple trees, specifically sugar maple. Maple

syrup can be made from the sap of any maple tree species but the sugar content of sugar maple sap is higher than that of the other maples, and it therefore takes fewer gallons of sap to make a gallon of syrup (with sugar maple the ratio is about 40 to l, so it’s a lot more work to get the syrup from the others).

Management of the sugar bush requires spacing the trees far enough apart that they form large crowns (when the trees are all crowded together in a normal forested situation, the crown of any individual tree is not particularly large). Large crowns mean a lot of leaves, and a lot of leaves means high syrup production.

The expense of maple syrup production lies in the fairly substantial capital investment required for the tapping (buckets or plastic tubing), boiling, and bottling equipment and materials. People who do this every year build a “sugar shack”—a building that houses the boiling pans, with lots of roof ventilation for the steam to escape, and a long, deep fire pit for heating the sap. Scrap wood from other forest management operations can be used to fuel the sugaring process. Labor is intensive during the production process, but the season of work is short, lasting usually four- to six-weeks in the spring—when days are beginning to warm but nights are still cool, and before buds break. The result is a very high value-added product.

FencepostsThe most desirable tree species for fenceposts in the eastern United States are black locust and Eastern redcedar. These species are desirable because of their natural resistance to decay—locust posts may last for decades without chemical treatment, whereas other species, even with treatment, may not last as long. Management consists of favoring the growth of these species over others and providing access to maximum water, light, and nutrients in the system where they are growing. Fenceposts are also an option as an intermediate product in the crop tree rows of an alley cropping system. Black locust, for example, can grow large enough to be harvested for fenceposts in 12-15 years, while black walnut 51


52

photo: photos.com

This honeybee and spider are both part

of nature’s wildly intricate web of life.

Both are intent on a midday snack, but

the likelihood is that only one will have its

appetite satisfied.

Estimates show that one in every three

bites of food we eat depends on active

pollination!

may take three times longer than that to reach a size that would be considered marketable. FuelwoodFuelwood, or firewood, is more of a byproduct of other management for forest farming than perhaps a specific activity, unless the forest is managed to encourage the growth of trees that are known to be excellent fuelwood, such as black locust or some of the less commercially desirable oaks, like post oak or blackjack oak. Exhausted mushroom logs can be used for firewood also, although they maybe punky enough that they are better ground up and used for mulch. ApicultureIf agroforestry is “the intentional integration of agronomic crops with tree crops or livestock with tree crops,” then with apiculture in forest farming, the “livestock” are very tiny! It has been estimated that one in every three bites of food we eat is dependent on active pollination of plants. The insect world, specifically bees and wasps, are the major operators in this case.

The European honeybee is the best-known of these insects, although it is not a native species. It has a couple of characteristics which make it particularly valuable. One is that honeybees show species fidelity, which means that they will use the same source of nectar to make honey until the source is exhausted. This enables them to make “specialty” honeys from crops such as buckwheat, tupelo, and sourwood. Another is that they collect pollen, along with nectar, and use both to raise their young, but also collect it in sufficient volume that it can be harvested without compromising the health of the hive.

Managing honeybees is not difficult, and getting setup with bees and hives is neither particularly expensive nor complicated. Extracting honey from the combs is an expensive proposition (extractors are costly), but it is possible to get good equipment second-hand.

Forests can be managed to favor trees that honeybees particularly like, such as basswood and black gum, providing extra light, water, and nutrients for those trees, as well as exposing the crowns to maximize surface area for flower production.

Average production for a hive is 50 lbs. of honey per year. It is also possible for a hive to produce 50 lbs. of pollen in a year. Products from the hive include: royal jelly (the super-rich food fed in tiny amounts to all honeybee larvae, but the exclusive diet of the queens) popular in both the health food and cosmetic markets; propolis, another product used in food supplements; and beeswax, used for candle-making and other crafts. Pollination itself is another saleable service, as hives can be transported from place to place to pollinate crops. Some alternative health practitioners use honeybees for their venom, which anecdotally is said to be extremely helpful to people suffering pain from rheumatoid arthritis or other joint problems.

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sample case study:

Timber ManagementJack and Dianne are in their late 50s and own 70 acres of woodland on which they live. They would like to supplement their fixed retirement income and offset other expenses through timber harvesting. Their two daughters will inherit the family property.

Both Jack and Dianne want to be responsible land stewards. They have walked their forest and identified a spring and what appears to be an old home site. They want their forest management activities to avoid these two locations and be compatible with personal recreation and soil and water protection.

long term goals

P To leave the forest in better condition than when they purchased the property.

P To have a healthy, productive forest which generates income while protecting water and soil quality.

P To maintain a system of trails and roads, which support the timber harvest and enhances hiking and other outdoor activities.

P To protect the natural spring and cultural resources on their property.

recommendedmanagement practices

P Improve the attractiveness of the forest edge surrounding their house by thinning poorly formed trees.

P Perform uneven aged management by removing one-half of the large sawtimber on 50 acres to generate income and improve growth and vigor of future crop trees.

P The remaining 20 acres, minus the determined boundaries around the spring and old home site will be group selected for the second cycle of harvests to promote wildlife patches.

P Improve recreational access and water quality by reseeding logging access roads and skid trails and by improving stream crossings.


54

in the real world:

Skyview Ranch This case study has been provided by Sustainable Northwest.

Colleen Krieger was raised on a cattle ranch. When she and her husband Wayne bought a 310 acre property in southwestern Oregon in 1973, they planned to clearcut and start a ranch of their own. Then they began talking to other people about forestry practices and getting other ideas. “Now,” says Colleen, “although we do run some cattle, we have more trees and fewer cattle than we expected.”

The land they bought had been logged in the 1940s and 1950s, with no follow-up planting. They found brush patches, lots of hardwoods, and, in other areas, densely-packed firs. The Kriegers sought help, and by the late 1970s, they were working with a state forester and their local extension agent to return their forest to a healthy state. They started with a management regime that included a few small clearcuts of six to 38 acres, regeneration cuts, site conversion, and thinning. In 1992, that work was formalized under a comprehensive Forest Stewardship Plan that has guided their management ever since.

“We had to convert the brush patches, which were full of twisted material,” Colleen says. “We thinned and replanted Douglas fir, and nature added white fir, alders, and cedars. We added some redwoods to see how they would do. The Port Orford cedars were not doing much until we thinned the Douglas fir, then they came in as an understory crop.”

The Kriegers perform 95 percent of the work on their land themselves. Over the years, they have improved the condition of streams and riparian areas. Their open meadows provide habitat for

elk and deer, and wild, fruit-bearing plants offer food for wildlife forage. “We went from having hardly any elk to having them break down a fence every now and again,” Colleen says without annoyance.

For three years the Kriegers raised salmon fin-gerlings in their pond as part of the Salmon Trout Enhancement Program; the fingerlings were used to repopulate nearby Euchre Creek. They maintain hiking trails on their land which are open to public schools and youth groups, and they conduct tours of their operation for local and national organizations.

Yet their focus remains in timber management, and in 1993 they were awarded the National Tree Farmer Award. The Kriegers sell small quantities of timber, and sometimes ornamental greens. But, says Colleen, “we don’t make a living off of it. Our main goal is to regrow the forest for our children and grandkids. The kids are being taught to manage the forest, respect its values, and take only what’s damaged or needs to be thinned.

“Nature doesn’t grow monocultures,” Colleen con-tinues, “and it teaches us a lot of lessons. We’ve been studying how it does things like thinning, pruning, and leaving wood on the hillsides to provide moisture. Management puts these things in a better time frame.”

From “Founders of a New Northwest 2000” published by Sustainable Northwest, 620 SW Main, Suite

112, Portland, OR 97205-3037. www.sustainablenorthwest.org

Wayne & Colleen Krieger

Skyview Ranch

95702 Skyview Ranch Road

Gold Beach, Oregon 97444

541.247.7990

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55

in the real world:

Endless Rhodes This case study has been provided by Sustainable Northwest.

Endless Rhodes is a fitting name for Darci Rhodes’ business. Darci has harvested non-tim-ber, or so-called “special” forest products for most of her adult life. But she has now managed to turn the work she loves into a new value-added business that is kind to the earth, while supporting the best instincts and aspirations of landowners, harvesters, and others in the indus-try.

Once on the receiving end of training in sustainable harvest methods and value-added manufacturing of special forest products, Darci is now a stewardship instructor and an advocate for harvesters.

“With the decline in opportunities for harvesters, most of us have adapted to diverse seasonal markets and various jobs. It’s very difficult to live off just the income from harvesting and selling fresh, because the price per pound for most prod-ucts has not changed much in 20 years. I try to get as much as I can for the highest quality wildcrafts and stay working year round as close to home as possible.”

Darci started collecting floral greens for local buyers about 20 years ago. Throughout the woods of the Northwest, this silent, nearly invisible industry has been growing for years. Special forest products encompass a range of goods other than timber, including: floral greens, Christmas ornamentals, wild edibles like mush-rooms, medicinal herbs, and a variety of craft products. They are harvested for a host of per-sonal and commercial uses.

Over the years Darci has seen enormous

changes. In the early 1980s, the industry went through a rapid period of growth, contributing millions of dollars annually to the Pacific Northwest’s economy. While she believes special forest products have great potential to reduce pressure to cut timber from important forest eco-systems, Darci has also watched overharvesting lead to environmental degradation in many of the region’s forests.

The basic structure of the industry, where har-vesters get access to land through permits and leases secured independently and with proces-sors, has created a “cash and carry” element. Bad press and poor business practices have helped fuel the perception that the special forest prod-ucts industry is an underground economy that often employs destructive harvesting practices.

Darci has also been saddened by the racial tensions and sometimes violent confrontations among the culturally diverse harvesters. “I have witnessed exploitation and mistreatment of minority harvesters by leaseholders, contractors, and law enforcement agents.”

Darci, who describes herself as “a student of the forest,” took a course in 1996 and earned a Special Forest Products Stewardship Certificate from Northwest Natural Resource Group (NNRG), a non-profit conservation orga-nization based in Port Townsend, Washington. She believed so strongly in the concept of ecologi-cally sustainable harvesting that she decided to become an instructor herself and went to work for them. She helped NNRG develop and deliver a successful Harvester Stewardship Training and Certification program that is aimed at improving special forest products harvesting practices, while developing economic opportuni-ties for the harvesters.

photo: photos.com

Darci Rhodes harvests floral greens,

Christmas ornamentals, wild edibles and

a variety of craft products for both

personal and commercial uses.


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Darci Rhodes

Endless Rhodes,

Specialty Forest Products

Stewardship Service and Supply

P.O. Box 723

South Bend, WA 98586

360.875.6122

[email protected]

h

The training course provides harvesters with species-specific best management and harvesting practices and a set of related skills to ensure land stewardship. By harvesting in the proper seasons, and using percentage harvesting and species-specific techniques, the harvesters can help protect and improve forest health. “The course itself consists of four hours in the class-room where we instruct harvesters in best practices and competencies such as forest land-owner relations, rules, regulations, safety, and map reading. Then we do four hours in the field for general and species-specific best harvest prac-tices.”

Darci’s involvement does not end at the con-clusion of the course. “We give the harvesters several months to get their certification and apply the best practices outlined in the Stewardship Training Manual (published by NNRG). Then I do a follow up visit with harvest-ers at their work sites and evaluate how they are doing. If they have complied with the require-ments and are competent in all practices, then NNRG sends them a certificate.”

In addition, Darci and NNRG monitor the long-range ecological effects of the best management practices, and continue to assist and support the harvesters in their stewardship efforts.

NNRG program director Larry Nussbaum says that Darci’s experience in the industry is invalu-able. “She brings a lot to the training beyond what’s in the manual, providing tips on harvest-ing, cultivation of plants, and marketing through creative channels. She actually encourages har-vesters to do direct marketing, skipping the middle man altogether to get a better return for their efforts. She also encourages them to do value-added manufacturing instead of selling

high volumes of low-value product. That’s all part of creating the incentive for stewardship and good business practices.”

Darci is as interested in the economic well being of the harvesters as she is in the environmental health of the forests in which they work. She and NNRG often team up with ShoreBank Enterprise Pacific, a regional business support organization, to provide financing and business assistance to harvesters and special forest products compa-nies. Of the first 12 people certified through the program, four started new businesses and five increased production in an existing business. Most were able to access new markets for their value-added products.

Darci is particularly pleased that the program has enabled low-income harvesters to enter into more equitable relations with forest-land owners, employers, and buyers. Armed with their new knowledge and skills, the harvesters have been able to negotiate better land access contracts. Darci believes that this has also “helped several non-English speaking harvesters in southwest Washington find more diverse work, which allows them to stay in the area year round instead of having to move to find additional work.”

The company may be called “Endless Rhodes,” but there is clearly a goal in sight.

From “Founders of a New Northwest 2000” published by Sustainable Northwest, 620 SW Main,

Suite 112, Portland, OR 97205-3037.


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in the real world:

Goebel Tree Farm This case study has been provided by Sustainable Northwest.

Leo Goebel was a school teacher who spent summers logging or working for the Forest Service. Bob Jackson was a forester and licensed surveyor who worked for timber companies, timber cruising and surveying. The two men had known each other for 20 years, when, in 1970, they bought a 160-acre parcel in Wallowa County. They bought the land as an investment, but things turned out differently than they had planned. Managing their land became an ongoing experiment and a commitment that brought years of work and public recognition.

At the time of purchase, the standing volume on their parcel was 1.9 million board feet. After 25 years of harvesting, they still retain close to two million standing board feet, and they have cut a total of two million feet in a steady annual flow of timber, which is exceptional for their dry, eastern terrain. Their forest is healthy and diverse, con-taining trees of all ages and many species, with a clear-running stream and a rich variety of birds and mammals.

Goebel and Jackson did not start with an old-growth stand. Like most of the forests in eastern Oregon, theirs had been logged. Its Ponderosa pine, particularly, had been cut in the 1920s, and the land had been used for pasture. “From the beginning, we managed it differently,” says Goebel. “In fact, we managed our timber the opposite way the companies and Forest Service that we had both worked for managed their timber. Our jobs (on other lands) were to get logs into the mill as cheaply as possible, cutting the biggest trees, as many per acre as possible. But here, we manage for forest health through

thinning and spacing.”

In the early years, they bought salvage sales from the Forest Service in the summer and worked their own land weekends and in the winter, learning as they went and adapting their management practices accordingly. “How we managed in 1975 wasn’t the same as it was in 1970,” Goebel says. “And how we manage today isn’t even the same as it was five years ago.”

Four or five years into their work, they were approached by the local state forester who knew and respected their work. He asked the two men to turn their land into a tree farm where others could come to learn from their approach. The Goebel-Jackson Tree Farm was born.

In their management, the two friends emphasize the health of the soil. “The more you care for the soil, the more forms of life it will support,” says Jackson. They fell dead and sick trees and take care not to damage the soil in removal. They leave much of their slash, scattering some to keep the soil cool and regenerate it, and piling some to offer habitat to small mammals and insects - including ants which eat the larvae of some of the budworm and moth forms that have devastated Oregon forests. Knowing that wildlife plays a crucial role in the mechanics of a healthy forest, Goebel and Jackson strive to maintain habitat complexity.

Their management is labor-intensive. They seem to know each pine, fir and larch personally, and, in fact, tag many of their trees to indicate their long-term management plans. They thin to allow the best trees to grow to full capacity. They point out that well-spaced trees are far less vulnerable to pests and disease. Cutting this way, they take down only three to four percent of their trees per


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“If a tree is healthy, then it doesn’t make sense to cut it down.”

Leo Goebel

year; most will not be cut for a generation or two. Goebel and Jackson also prune many trees up to the live crowns to create better quality, clear lumber.

“If a tree is healthy, then it doesn’t make sense to cut it down,” says Goebel, who is fond of demonstrating to visitors that trees put on pro-gressively more volume per year after their diameters reach 16 to 18 inches. He keeps cross sections of trees and bar graphs to prove it. At exactly the point many foresters judge a tree ready to cut, Goebel and Jackson say it has just begun to be a profitable enterprise.

Their profits are also increased by avoiding planting costs. “We much prefer natural repro-duction to planting,” Goebel continues. “It’s site specific. If you bring in trees from outside, they may have come from a different elevation or slope—you don’t know. And since we leave our best trees standing, for us, natural reproduction comes from the best stock. We do get more fir coming in that way, but we can cut it back in our pre-commercial thinning. We do that because we favor a mix of trees, and pine and larch are more resistant to root rot.”

In addition to hosting regular tours, they have received recognition through several awards, including Oregon Tree Farmer of the Year in 1984 and in 1991, and the Outstanding Western Tree Farmer in 1992 from the American Forest Council. Leo Goebel’s son, Ed, won the district Proficiency Award for forest management at the state Future Farmers of America convention in 1982, 1983, and 1984. In 1984, Ed was the state winner in Forest Management and he also won the Star State Agribusinessman Award, all for his work on the tree farm.

“Jackson and Goebel have set an example of resource management creativity for other manag-ers in the Blue Mountains region of northeast Oregon and southeast Washington,” comments Bill Mullarkey of the Blue Mountain Natural Resource Institute in LaGrande.

At a roundtable discussion during the Seventh American Forest Congress, Bob Jackson had this advice: “For this area, forget about sophisti-cated or clever forest practices. Spend the time and money on basics: regenerate depleted areas, thin over-stocked areas in stages, and manage downed woody material for rapid decom-position and restoration of soil organic material. In all of it, consider genetic improvement and diversity in a relentless manner.”

Leo Goebel’s family is involved in the manage-ment of the tree farm, giving him reason to believe his work will continue past his lifetime, but both Jackson and Goebel take the long-term view, anyway. They are at peace with the fact that many of the trees under their stewardship will not be ready for harvest under their guide-lines until after their death.

“My vision is for 300 to 800 years—to have our forest land restored as highly productive, diverse, and sustainable forests,” says Jackson, speaking about more than the land he shares with Leo Goebel.

“I hope there will be people who are willing to do manual labor,” he continues, “people willing to work beyond discouragement, willing to think beyond standards, guidelines and popular ideas, and willing to forego the pretentious and compul-sive use of resources.”

Goebel Jackson Tree Farm

62309 Wallowa Lake Highway

Joseph, Oregon 97846

541.432.2431

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Wildlife (linking forest and wildlife)

Wildlife management and forestry are interre-lated. If one of your goals is to manage your forest for wildlife, understand that harvest or other management decisions will likely alter wildlife habitat. You can still have a productive forest and abundant wildlife; this is achieved through careful consideration of each decision and how that decision may affect a wildlife species.

The age and composition of a forest stand will directly affect the type of wildlife you can attract. For example, certain songbirds thrive in forest stands that are zero to five years old, while certain animals require a mature forest with den trees. A den tree has one or more cavities used by birds, reptiles, and mammals for roost-ing or nesting. Several aspects of your property determine how many species can live and thrive within your forest: 1) plant cover, 2) forest cover-age, 3) water resources and 4) topography.

timber management tips topromote wildlife

P When or if you harvest, use an irregular pattern to create more “edge” perimeter than a typical square.

P Separating harvest areas with 100+ft. wide areas of uncut timber will enhance diversity of habitats and provide travel corridors between fragmented forest stands.

P Keep riparian buffer zones intact.

P Islands of uncut timber within a harvest area will provide wildlife habitat and mast (food)

producing trees.

P Thinning timber stands allows more sunlight to reach the forest floor, which will promote understory growth.

P Mark den and mast producing trees before harvest to insure that the most desirable wildlife trees are not removed.

P Use native grasses when reseeding your skid trails and logging roads. Insects attracted to the vegetation are an important wildlife food source.

P Seeding and establishment recommendations vary depending upon soil type, moisture availability and fertility as well as time of year.

All wildlife

have four basic

requirements:

Food, Water

Cover and Space


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photo: photos.com

White tail deer are a favorite of wildlife

watchers and hunters, but they’re also

known to gobble up understory plants

and vegetable gardens.

sample case study:

Wildlife managementSarah is married and in her late 30s. She, her sister, and one brother inherited their 200-acre, non-working farm from their mother. Although there is sentimental attachment to the property, for monetary reasons they are going to subdivide the property and sell off parcels.

Currently, all siblings live several hours away. Sarah comes home most frequently and is the primary caretaker of the property. She enjoys fishing and hunting (deer, turkey) and often cuts her own firewood to heat the old farmhouse. Her siblings enjoy the relaxation and solitude they get when visiting.

The inherited farm is mostly wooded with a large meadow and a high quality trout stream running through it. Part of the farm is an apple orchard, with blackberry patches upslope of a former hay field. One field next to the orchard is rented for pasture.

long term goals

P To maintain the forest habitat optimal for deer and turkey.

P To manage the forest for a feathered edge which will enhance wildlife diversity.

P To have a productive forest which generates income to help pay property taxes and general maintenance while protecting water quality.

P To specifically protect the quality trout stream.


P Improve timber stands by removing poorly formed trees for firewood and to sell the firewood.

P Thin the entire forest to generate income.

P Seed skid trails and logging roads with native grasses.

P Expand the riparian buffer zone for added protection around the trout stream.


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RecreationWhether you decide to primarily manage your forest for income, wildlife or aesthetics, it is likely that recreation is your second goal. Regardless of the type of recreation you enjoy, it is likely compatible with your second goal. Let’s face it, managing a forest requires a lot of hard work. You deserve an afternoon picnic, an early morning bird sighting or an evening alone with your fishing pole. Mutual funds may be a popular investment, but they’re worthless on a camping trip. Naturalist John Muir put it best, “The clear-est way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness.”

timber management tips to promote wildlife Because you are investing the time and effort to enhance your recreational opportunities, you should think of ways to ensure that others do not compromise your efforts.

P Restrict access to only family, friends, neighbors and responsible recreationists that contact you for permission. Post signs to control activities and limit liability on your land.

P Leasing your land for recreational activities is a sound way to restrict access and earn income. Organizations, such as hunt clubs, frequent the property on- and off- season and provide extra eyes for unwanted visitors. Leasing your land usually can pay for the property taxes. Your contribution may be to maintain roads, gates and trails. Note: There may be restrictions to this option in some areas.

P Another alternative to leasing your land is to provide daily permit fees for visitors. This is a good option if you wish to limit the amount of visitors.

It is important to remember that recreational opportunities can be enhanced with sound forest management.

Remember to gate forest access roads to keep all-terrain vehicles and off-road trucks from tres-passing.

“The clearest

way into the Universe

is through a forest

wilderness.”

John Muir


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P Protection of high-quality trout stream, which runs through the property.

P Maintain a healthy forest, especially within the riparian buffer zone.


P Create a campground near the stream, but outside the riparian buffer.

P Transplant some native ornamental trees and shrubs near the campground entrance.

P Remove deformed trees and selectively thin around the campground to promote a healthy forest stand that provides shade and shelter.

P Annually remove dead or dying trees within the riparian buffer zone and near the campground to protect visitors from falling trees.

Recreation

photo: photos.com

Recreation is a blanket term

used to describe various

activities. When working on

your management plan, it’s

helpful to be specific about the

type of recreational activities

you would like to support or

avoid.

Popular forest-friendly outdoor

activities include: bird watching,

horseback riding, camping,

fishing, hunting, biking and hiking

or taking nature walks. Off-

roading and all terrain vehicles

(ATVs) may be popular, but they

can easily damage your forest,

streams and the plants and

animals that live within. Keep

these vehicles in designated

areas that can withstand high

impact.

sample case study:

Recreation managementDonny and Sarah, in their late 30s, own twenty acres of forestland that has a high quality stream running along their northern property boundary. Two years ago a State Nature Preserve was dedicated just a couple of miles away. Since that time, Donny and Sarah have noticed that hikers and outdoor enthusiasts come from as far as Louisville to enjoy the natural beauty.

There is no camping permitted on State Nature Preserves properties, so most of the visitors come only for day-trips.

Donny and Sarah organized several neighbors and together, they plan on opening a fishing preserve, small restaurant and campground.

Their property is in enviable condition and they want certain areas to remain “off-limits” to visitors.

long term goals

P A healthy forest and beautiful property.


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Special Consideration: Wetland Forest ManagementAll wetlands provide beneficial functions to our environment. They reduce flooding, trap and filter pollutants, clean groundwater and provide abundant wildlife habitat. At one time there were an estimated 1,566,000 acres of wetlands in Kentucky. As of 1978, only about 637,000 remained (REP America, 2002). Forestry operations can devastate wetlands and should be considered with great care and planning.

Fens and bogs are typical forested wetlands found in Kentucky’s Appalachia region. Fens and Bogs are peat-forming ecosystems with high water tables, accumulation of organic matter (peat), and low nutrient availability to plants.

In Canada, fens and bogs can cover several square miles; in Kentucky they are limited in size to just a few acres. Therefore, protecting their unique contribution to Kentucky’s environment is very important.

Harvesting trees in wetlands can alter the hydrology of the wetland, thus, changing the wetland’s functionality forever. Potential forestry operation impacts occur from road and skid trail construction, log decks, and harvesting. Since wetland areas are considered fragile, each wetland should be regarded as a “hands off” zone.

You should be aware of the numerous laws and regulations (both federal and state) that apply to forestry activities. Accordingly, forestry activities in wetland areas require special permitting from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This is

required by Section 404(a) of the Clean Water Act, which regulates the discharge of dredged or fill material into waters of the United States.

The best practice to protect your wetlands is to identify, flag the boundary and consider these areas off limits to forestry operations.

Regulatory requirements for Wetlands Areas can be found in the PreHarvest Appendix under Forest Buffers.

photo:© Courier-Journal

Not all wetlands look wet all year long. This photo shows a bog

during a dry summer. The bog acts like a giant sponge, gradually

releasing water underground to feed the forest. The cinnamon

ferns in this photo are common bog plants in Kentucky. They

sometimes grow upwards of 4 feet.63


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Land and Water Protection MeasuresYour efforts to preserve the land and water will be enjoyed and appreciated for generations to come. This Appendix is designed to provide you with the basic concepts of protecting your natural resources to ensure that they will be viable and productive.

It is important to note the management measures that follow are designed for Kentucky landowners interested in protecting their land and water resources and managing their forest with an eye toward the long term.

If you are only interested in short term monetary gains and have little regard for the true assets in your forest, this publication is not for you.

The recommendations that follow differ from the state’s legally mandated minimum requirements, which were developed “to establish minimum acceptance quality levels for . . . agriculture and silviculture facilities and operation.” In short, the state best management practices (BMPs) provide an important service as a baseline for everyone conducting forestry activities: loggers, paper companies, industry, etc. As a private forest landowner with a stake in the long term value of your forest, water and soil resources, you will likely want to offer enhanced protection. A good

analogy is one of a rental car compared to your personal vehicle. Would you ever pay to have an oil change or engine tune-up on a rental car? By the same token, you understand that regular car care can extend the life and value of your personal vehicle.

The following Land and Water Protection Measures offer suggestions to best protect your property from damage during harvest activities. When working with a logger or forester you should feel comfortable asking them to follow these guidelines to avoid negative repercussions that can stem from harvesting timber.

The following Land and Water Protection Appendix differentiates the guidelines that are legally required from the suggestions for maximum protection. At the end of each Protection Measure, there is a section that says “required by law.”

Why is it necessary to follow land and water protection measures?Kentucky’s forests play an important role in stabilizing soil and protecting water quality through filtering and absorbing water runoff. As previously mentioned, land and water protection measures are a practical means to prevent and control water quality degradation and soil loss. When a forest is disturbed the potential for erosion and sedimentation of surface waters increases. This potential increases significantly within the steep topography of Kentucky’s Appalachian mountains.

Sedimentation of any water body from forestry is considered nonpoint source (NPS) pollution. Nonpoint source pollution is defined as diffuse

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discharges entering water in a diffuse manner at intermittent intervals based on rain or snowmelt. Forestry activities compound nonpoint source pollution because they often increase the amount of sediments, nutrients, organic matter, and toxic compounds that flow into lakes, rivers and groundwater during rain and snow. Erosion and sedimentation affect water quality by increasing water temperature, clogging streams, ruining fish habitat and increasing nutrient levels in the water that reduce the oxygen available to aquatic life (known as dissolved oxygen).

Land and Water Protection Measures are essential—regardless of your management objectives. Allow for the planning and budgeting to implement the proper management measures in advance of your forestry activities. A little preparation is a wise way to insure against costly and time-consuming remediation.

Federal and State Requirements for Water Quality ProtectionThere are several federal and Kentucky state regulations pertaining to water quality law violations as a result of forestry practices. In 1987, Congress amended the Clean Water Act and enacted Section 319, which established a national program for the control of NPS pollution (EPA, 1993). Section 319 requires states, tribes, and territories to address NPS pollution by assessing its causes and sources, as well as implementing management programs to control them. The federal government also has the Total Maximum Daily Load Program (TMDL). A TMDL is a statement of the total quantity of a pollutant that can be released into a waterbody or stretch of stream or river on a daily basis to maintain water quality standards (EPA, 2001).

Section 404 of the Clean Water ActOther federal programs include Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, which regulates dredge and fill of wetlands, for which a federal permit is required. See page 63 for more details about wetlands. Federal and state laws are often written in technical and complicated language. The basic principal that you need to know as a land steward is not to degrade water quality with sedimentation (that is, prevent soil and pollutants from entering the stream).

Kentucky Agriculture Water Quality Act (AWQA)In 1994, the Kentucky General Assembly enacted the Kentucky Agriculture Water Quality Act (KRS 224.71-100). The act established a 15-member Agriculture Water Quality Authority representing the state’s agricultural and environmental community. The Authority developed the Kentucky Agriculture Statewide Water Quality Plan (Statewide Plan). The Statewide Plan mandates that any person who owns 10 or more contiguous acres of land in Kentucky and who uses that land for agriculture and/or forestry, must have an individual water quality plan by October 23, 2001.

To apply for state cost-share assistance, you need to have a water quality plan in place. A forester with the Division of Forestry can assist you with this. Otherwise, it is the logger or forester’s responsibility to follow all of the state mandated BMPs when working on your property. If you are uncertain of a logger’s qualifications, ask for references and to see his/her “Kentucky Master Logger” card. It certifies they have been trained in, and are responsible for implementing, state BMPs.


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Keep in mind, BMPs were developed to establish minimum acceptance quality levels. At the end of each Land and Water Protection Measure, the minimum BMP requirements are listed. You are well within your rights though to stipulate—maybe even contractually require—a logger or forester to follow the enhanced protection measures offered!

Currently, landowners are exempt from obtaining regulatory permits to perform forestry operations (except for Section 404) on your land. However, if a water quality law violation does take place on your property, then you will be held accountable by the state and federal government.

Poor forestry practices are a cause for concern at the federal, state and local level. But water quality concerns aren’t limited to government agencies. As a landowner you have a vested interest in the quality of your land and water resources. By implementing the following Land and Water Protection Measures, you can protect your assets for the long term. You may also want to let your neighbors know about these land and water protection measures. Remember, when it comes to water quality, we all live downstream.

Kentucky Forest Conservation Act (FCA) In 1998, the Kentucky General Assembly passed KRS 149.330 to 149.355, known as the Kentucky Forest Conservation Act. While the act places its primary responsibility on loggers, private forestland owners also need be aware of the law because they provide most of the timber in Kentucky. The act requires the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Cabinet to provide education, standards and enforcement of forest related activities. R

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Specific activities include: • conducting and maintaining an inventory of Kentucky’s forests; • establishing a stewardship incentives fund; • implementing a Master Logger Program to assure loggers comply with state and federal logging regulations*; • implementing the state’s minimum requirements and specifications of BMPs; and • establishing a Best Management Practices Board to update forest practice guidelines.* As of July 15, 2000, all timber-harvesting operations within the Commonwealth require at least one logger on-site and in charge that has successfully completed the Master Logger Program.

Special Use WatersSpecial use waters are rivers, streams and lakes listed in Kentucky Administrative Regulations that are worthy of additional protection.

They are recognized as: • Cold Water Aquatic Habitat; • Exceptional Waters; • Reference Reach Waters; • Outstanding State Resource Waters; • Outstanding National Resource Waters; • State Wild Rivers and Federal Wild Rivers; and • Scenic Rivers.

To learn more about specific locations in Kentucky and the guidelines for protection, visit http://www.water.ky.gov/sw/specialwaters/ or call the Division of Water (502) 564-3410.

Is

there a special

use waterbody in your

area? Find out at

http://nrepcapps.ky.gov/

special_waters/specialwaters.htm

or by calling the Division of

Water (502) 564-3410.

Before a logger

conducts any

activities on your property,

ask to see his or her Master

Logger Card. Loggers are required

to have this card with them and

attend re-certification training every three years.

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Alternative Harvesting OptionsErosion from timber harvesting should be a serious concern of every landowner-particularly if you live on steep terrain like that of Appalachian Kentucky. In many cases, harvesting on steep terrain is just plain dangerous and shouldn’t be done using traditional ground-based skidders.

There are a few techniques that will allow you to safely harvest on otherwise hazardous slopes. These techniques are gaining popularity, but still are not widely available in Appalachia. If enough landowners are interested though, who knows? Maybe horse-logging could one day be a booming enterprise in Kentucky.

cable yardingCable yarding is a preferred, environmentally friendly, physically feasible, and socially acceptable means to extract timber on otherwise difficult slopes. Harvesting timber with a cable yarding system requires the expertise of a professional. It is perfectly suited to steep terrain because cables lift and transport the logs to the log deck; making skid trails obsolete. To read more about the process of cable yarding visit: http://www.cnr.vt.edu/visser/cable_logging/index.htm.

Advantages to Cable Yarding: • Cable yarding reduces the number and length of roads needed. • Cable yarding increases productivity. • Skyline cable yarding prevents environmental impacts by lifting the logs above the ground and transporting them to the deck via the skyline. • No skid trails need to be created. • Yard logs uphill, which minimizes erosion.

Cable Yarding Tips: • Avoid yarding across streams. • Cut or clear cable ways if yarding over a stream. • Place log deck next to the access road so logs can be swung onto trucks.

photo: Temperate Forest Foundation Alt

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helicopter loggingExtracting timber with a helicopter is costly, primarily because of the equipment involved. However, the expense of using a helicopter can pay off if there is high value timber that could not otherwise be reached. The costs of rehabilitating the land after conventional logging can often pay the difference between helicopter and conventional methods. Helicopter yarding is low impact because of: • reduced access roads; • no skid trails; • no stream crossings; • less damage to the tree harvested and the surrounding standing timber; • a single log deck; • limited soil disturbance; and • minimal closeout BMPs.

Helicopter yarding does have setbacks, but when comparing timber harvesting systems, helicopter yarding is the least environmentally intrusive of all harvesting methods.

Talk with a state professional to see if cable or helicopter yarding is a cost effective means to harvest your timber. It is important to remember that another alternative is to not harvest your timber because of the environmental risks associated with the steep slopes.

horse logging (also mule or ox logging)There is another alternative method to steep terrain harvesting—horse logging. But the benefits of horse logging are not limited to steep terrain. Horse logging can be used for most harvesting situations. It is ideal when light thinning is needed, since horses are better at avoiding large standing trees than less maneuverable skidders or tractors.

Horse logging is considered an ideal alternative for small private woodland tracts because of its minimal disturbance. By nature, it is more sustainable than other methods because it is labor intensive (for the horse). Horses cost less than big logging machines; they can be used for many other rural applications and can make it economically feasible for landowners to cut just a few trees at a time.

There are several benefits to horse logging: • low cost; • no mechanized skid trails; • no loud equipment (except for the chain saw); • impact of horse skid trails are limited to the width of the log being skidded; • no refueling of equipment (except with hay and oats); • it only requires one or two people; • closeout BMPs are minimal.

photo: Ed Christopher

photo: Horizon Helicopters


PreHarvest—Land and Water Protection Measures 1A–

PreHarvest Planning

why is planning important? PreHarvest planning provides you with the solid foundation to properly layout all-important aspects of your forest management plan. You will need to (with the assistance of a professional) layout access roads, skid trails, stream crossings, and identify those areas that should not be harvested (i.e., too steep, wetlands, streamside management zones). The following checklist provides general principles of what PreHarvest planning should entail. The pages that follow offer specific examples and photos.

PreHarvest planning is the most important phase of the entire timber harvest operation. Therefore, taking the time in the beginning to properly plan your harvest will save money, time and protect water quality and soil productivity for generations to come.

preharvest planning checklist: Identify and mark the forest harvest boundary and all waterbodies, wetlands, or other sensitive areas

within your property. This should first be done on a U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) topographic map and then later performed “on the ground.”

Identify and flag special natural resource areas such as sinkholes, wetlands, and springs. These areas play a vital role in keeping water clean and provide habitat for plants and animal species dependent on these unique features.

With the help of a professional, layout access roads, skid trails, and log decks. Keep these to a minimum to reduce the negative impact on your property and save you money. Some roads in the Appalachian Mountains can cost several thousand dollars per mile, so it makes financial sense to take the time to properly plan their location.

Determine the type of logging equipment that will be used and choose those vehicles that will have the least amount of environmental impact. For example, a front-end loader supplemented with a grapple can “walk” up slopes, reduce skid trails, increase the number of logs going to the log deck in a shorter amount of time, and most importantly, reduce environmental impact, saving money and increasing your profit. This harvesting practice is known as “shovel logging.”

Locate and design temporary stream crossings and the type of crossing that is to be implemented (temporary bridge, culvert, fording the stream with geotextiles).

Recognize that some places should not be harvested, especially very steep slopes or fragile terrain. In some cases there are ways to harvest with alternative equipment. See Alternative Harvesting Options in the previous section to understand other means of harvesting (cable yarding, helicopter, horse logging).

Prepare the timber sale contract to conform to your PreHarvest plan. Contact an attorney of your choice to prepare a timber sale contract which conforms to your PreHarvest plan. The best way to implement your plan is to put it in writing and make it binding on the logger who ultimately harvests your timber. See page A-62 for a sample.

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PreHarvest—Land and Water Protection Measures2A–

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ssinkholes: During the PreHarvest planning, be sure to identify and flag all sinkhole areas. Typically found in limestone areas, sinkholes are depressions or soil collapses—often circular in shape—which accelerate the damage that typical surface runoff can cause. As shown in the illustration below and the photo on the following page, sinkholes provide a direct path or funnel for pollutants like untreated sewage or soil contaminants to drain into underground waterways. A “swallet” or drain hole is the point where runoff water leaves the surface and rapidly flows underground with little or no filtration.

Sinkholes are only the most obvious feature of karst terrane. The entire karst area—including flat areas between sinks—tends to be sensitive to pollution. Land-disrupting activities like logging, farming and development often trigger soil and sinkhole collapses. In general, groundwater degradation from harvesting activities is increased when a sinkhole contains steeper slopes and more bedrock outcrops.

See page A-4 for a map of karst occurrence in Kentucky.

30

35

45

55

5

10

20

30

buffer area around sinkholeslope of land

(%)distance (in feet)

photo illustration: Sara Thilman and Joe Ray



sinkhole checklist: Identify and flag all karst areas and sinkholes.

Avoid harvesting near sinkholes if possible. Healthy tree roots help stabilize sinkhole slopes. If the area cannot be avoided, maintain good buffer area around sinkhole (see chart on the previous page). Keep all tree tops, slash, runoff and debris from roads, skid trails and log landings away from sinkhole buffer.

Avoid harvesting on slopes greater than 30% (~3 ft. drop per 10 foot slope) in areas with sinkholes.

Keep equipment fluids, pesticides and fertilizers out of sinkhole areas.

photo courtesy of Keith Mountain, Kentucky Geographic Alliance

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karst occurrence in KentuckyKarst is a terrane that is generally underlain by limestone or dolomite, where the topography is formed chiefly by dissolving rock. Karst landscapes are commonly characterized by sinkholes, sinking streams, closed depressions, subterranean drainage, large springs and caves.

Karst regions are susceptible to unique problems such as sinkhole collapse, sinkhole flooding and rapid groundwater pollution. Springs in karst areas are an important, productive source of groundwater. Rare biologic communities and endangered species can be found in the fragile underground environments developed in karst landscapes.

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the Forest Conservation Act (FCA) /Agriculture Water Quality Act (AWQA)minimum requirements• Leave a buffer zone between any disturbed area and the open swallet of a sinkhole of 30 feet for areas of 5 percent slope. An additional 10 feet in width should be added to this zone for each 10 percent increase in slope.• Divert runoff from haul/access roads, skid trails, and log landings so as not to drain directly into sinkholes, sinking streams, or caves. (Note: if runoff does enter a sinkhole, a UIC permit may be required.)• Do not push soil, logging debris, and/or other waste material into the bottom of a sinkhole or into any noticeable sinkhole opening.• Do not drain fluids from equipment onto the ground. They should be collected in a container, transported off site, and recycled or properly disposed.• Maintain a buffer zone along sinking streams or in sinkholes with an open swallet if there is fertilizer and/or pesticide usage in the vicinity.

other regulatory requirements:• Activities around sinkholes, cave entrances, etc.: (KRS 433.870-433.875)• Endangered species in caves: (Federal Register 55:6184 and 56:58804-58836)• Modified sinkholes: (May need to be registered and/or permitted)• Cave streams and other underground surface waters: (may deal with KY Surface Water Statutes and/or Outstanding Resource Waters)• All silvicultural operations: (410 KAR 5:026, 5:029, 5:030, and 5:031)• Activities near high-quality waters and outstanding national resource Waters: (401 KAR 5:029, 5:030, and 5:031w• Activities near wild rivers: (KRS 146.200 et seq.and 401 KAR 4:100-140)

sinkholes—what is required by law:The following BMPs are required by law. To obtain a complete copy of these requirements, contact the Division of Forestry or visit http://www.ca.uky.edu/agc/pubs/for/for67/for67.htm.

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Mature trees, shrubs and grasses help regulate water flow. Dead trees or snags contribute to animal habitat.


Nature helps to filter sediment, nutrients and pollution from runoff and water below the surface.

STREAM

By following buffer guidelines you will contribute to stream quality, provided wildlife habitat and help offset the effects of drought and flooding.


smz = 100’ + 2 x (slope)’


smz = 100’ + 2 x (slope)’

Waterbody ponds, rivers and all perennial,

intermittent and ephemeral streams



Forest Buffers aka Streamside Management Zones (SMZs)

what are they? The strips of forest bordering a stream are considered buffer zones. Trees and plants should remain intact in the streamside management zone to buffer or protect the stream and its inhabitants from silt, sediment and disturbance from harvest activities.

The actual width of the buffer area varies depending upon the slope, soil and other factors. Guidelines are on the following page. Some sources offer different guidelines for intermittent streams (those that flow only during rainy seasons) and perennial streams (those that flow year round). Since pollutants and unwanted nutrients can get trapped in the soil of a dry stream bank, we recommend using the same buffer width for both intermittent and perennial streams.

Streamside Management Zone is a legal definition developed specifically for forestry. Included in this buffer area is the riparian forest—the strips of vegetation that border water bodies and typically have different plants than the upland forest. Riparian forests are considered the primary buffer area since they are closest to the water’s edge and are critical to fish, wildlife and water quality. See illustration (previous page). For more information about riparian forests, see pages 23 and 24.

Creating a Streamside Management Zone (SMZ) buffer:P Protects water quality P Promotes wildlife habitatP Helps control flooding P Provides shade for aquatic habitatP Filters and traps unwanted sediments and pollutants P Minimizes streambank erosion P Spreads surface water, slows water flow, minimizes erosion P Is required by Kentucky law (details follow)

why is planning important? Forest buffers or streamside management zones apply to many types of forestry activities. In most cases buffers are only a small percentage of a landowner’s forest, but they support a wide variety of plants and wildlife. Think of the buffer area as protection for your water supply. In many areas sediment is the #1 pollutant of streams and rivers. Why would you pollute or throw debris into your stream if it is relatively easy to avoid?

what size buffer or smz is recommended?The Forest Conservation Act requires a minimum buffer width for areas next to perennial streams lakes and ponds of 25’ to 55’ feet on land with less than 15% slope and a minimum of 55’ to 90’ feet on land with slope of 15% or greater. (The complete FCA guidelines are on page A-11.)

However, an ecologist from the University of Georgia conducted a review of over 140 scientific articles and books assessing various buffer methodologies. This research found that a base buffer width of 100’ is a solid recommendation for adequate sediment removal under most circumstances. A 100’ buffer (plus additional for slope) will also help maintain good aquatic

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habitat by shading the stream and preserving stream bank stability. This recommendation is very similar to that used by Daniel Boone National Forest (DBNF). DBNF requires that the 100 year floodplain be protected by a minimum of 100’ for all perennial streams, plus additional buffer width as the slope increases.

To determine the recommended buffer width for your property:

100’ + 2’ x (slope) = buffer on both sides of your stream or waterway.

For example, if your property is on a steep (15%) slope, your buffer should be 100’ + 2 x (15) =130’ on each side of your waterbody.

forest buffer (smz) checklist: No harvest or harvest related activities in a 100’ Buffer Zone on either side of the stream. Add additional

width of 2’ to compensate for each 1% increase in slope. This guideline is wide enough to capture soil and other pollutants before they reach the water. It’s much easier and less expensive to protect your water than it is to correct a pollution problem.

The buffer applies to all perennial, intermittent and ephemeral streams.

Extend the SMZ to include the entire floodplain and adjacent wetland areas.

Exclude all land disturbing activities from the SMZ including logging roads, disposal sites and tree cutting.

Promote trees and vegetation to shade the stream. This helps regulate water temperature critical for aquatic habitat.

Keep out wheeled or track-type equipment.

Keep out all pesticides, fertilizers, hazardous waste, chemicals and fuels.



Important note:The width of the buffer zones should always maintain Kentucky’s minimum width and is always dependent upon the site-specific nature of the area. Buffer zones should be adapted for each area and are expected not to be linear, but rather to fluctuate in length depending upon the slope percent. Buffer zones are only as good as the low point in the topography. This is the same as saying that a chain is only as good as its weakest link. As you mark off your buffer zones, look for those locations that have linear depressions where water will collect and become a concentrated flow. More often than not, these “low point” locations are areas where the buffer zones will fail because water becomes concentrated and punches through the buffer zones making it ineffective.

Another area to watch out for is where a culvert empties into a buffer zone. The water coming off the road and through the pipe is moving fast and will act like a water cannon punching through the buffer zones.

To avoid these occurrences, install energy dissipaters such as hay bales, small boulders, or slash. These items, if installed correctly, will slow down the water velocity, trap sediment, and prevent a breakthrough to the buffer zones. Keep in mind these energy dissipaters will need regular maintenance in order to continue working properly.

Minimize possible problems, damages or potential liability by avoiding steep terrain. Harvesting on steep terrain can present dangers to your land, water and the individual performing the harvest. Tailor the width of the buffer zone or SMZ to the varying degrees of slope found throughout your property. For example, the buffer zone will be wider in areas with steeper adjacent slopes, more narrow in flat areas. A sound SMZ will protect water quality by functioning as a filter for potential water runoff with the associated nonpoint source pollution, as seen in the photo below.

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The trees and shrubs along this stream not only add to the beauty, but help to naturally

protect it by trapping debris and silt before it reaches the water.

photo: Keith Mountain, KY. Geographic Alliance



Special Consideration: Wetland Forest ManagementAll wetlands provide beneficial functions to our environment. They reduce flooding, trap and filter pollutants, clean groundwater and provide abundant wildlife habitat. At one time there were an estimated 1,566,000 acres of wetlands in Kentucky. As of 1978, only about 637,000 remained (REP America, 2002). Forestry operations can devestate wetlands and should be considered with great care and planning.

Fens and bogs are typical forested wetlands found in Kentucky’s Appalachian region. Fens and Bogs are peat-forming ecosystems with high water tables, accumulation of organic matter (peat), and low nutrient availability to plants.

In Canada, fens and bogs can cover several square miles; in Kentucky they are limited in size to just a few acres. Therefore, protecting their unique contribution to Kentucky’s environment is very important.

Harvesting trees in wetlands can alter the hydrology of the wetland, thus, changing the wetland’s functionality forever. Potential forestry operation impacts occur from road and skid trail construction, log decks, and harvesting. Since wetland areas are considered fragile, each wetland should be regarded as a “hands off” zone.

You should be aware of the numerous laws and regulations (both federal and state) that apply to forestry activities. Accordingly, forestry activities in wetland areas require special permitting from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This is required by Section 404(a) of the Clean Water Act, which regulates the discharge of dredged or fill material into waters of the United States.

The best practice to protect your wetlands is to identify, flag the boundary and consider these areas off limits to forestry operations.

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the Forest Conservation Act (FCA) /Agriculture Water Quality Act (AWQA)minimum requirementsThese are the minimum standards for buffer zones (SMZ’s) required by law : • In no case use stream beds as roads or for the skidding of logs except where site conditions (rock walls, notches, or other limiting factors) leave no other alternatives for access or where road or skid trail placement in normally recommended locations is either impossible or will cause a higher degree of water quality degradation.• If an exception due to physical site conditions is necessary, stream channels may be used only as roads or for skidding for the minimum distance required.• In areas adjacent to perennial streams, lakes and ponds, forest buffers should be maintained for a minimum surface distance of 25 to 55 feet on the ground with less than 15% slope and a minimum surface distance of 55 to 90 feet on the ground with slope of 15% or greater. Management activities are acceptable in these areas; however, equipment operation should be avoided except at designated crossings, and at least 50% of the original tree overstory (canopy cover) should be retained to shade the water and to maintain water temperature. Where minimum distances are not possible, roads, trails and landings can be located at less than the recommended distance, but should be constructed to protect water quality. Take precaution to prevent tree debris, such as tops from harvested trees, from remaining in or being washed into perennial streams.• In areas adjacent to intermittent streams, complete removal of overstory trees is acceptable. Equipment operation should be avoided in a zone of at least 25 feet on each side of an intermittent stream except for designated crossings. Where minimum distances are not possible, roads, trails and landings can be located at less than the recommended distances, but should be constructed to protect water quality. Mechanical site preparation should be excluded from areas adjacent to intermittent streams to maintain the duff layer and filtering capacity. Take precautions to prevent tree debris, such as tops from harvested trees, from remaining in or being washed into intermittent streams.• Cold water Aquatic Habitats (CAHs) (high-quality trout streams), as designated by the Kentucky Division of Water, need additional protection.• CAHs should have a minimum of 75 percent of the original tree overstory (canopy cover) retained within the 60-foot-wide strip on either side of the stream.• Understory vegetation immediately adjacent to CAH streams should be left undisturbed.• Fertilizers and pesticides should only be applied in SMZs in compliance with silviculture BMPs 7 and 8, respectively.

other regulatory requirements:• Debris in floodplains: (KRS 151.250)• All silvicultural operations: (410 KAR 5:026, 5:029, 5:030, and 5:031)• Activities near high-quality waters and outstanding national resource waters: (401 KAR 5:029, 5:030, and 5:031)• Activities near wild rivers: (KRS 146.200 et seq. and 401 KAR 4:100-140)

forest buffers—required by law: The following BMPs are required by law. To obtain a complete copy of these requirements, contact the Division of Forestry or visit http://www.ca.uky.edu/agc/pubs/for/for67/for67.htm.

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wetlands areas—required by law:

Regulatory Requirements that loggers or foresters must adhere to for Wetlands Areas include:• Filling or draining a wetland: (33 USC 1251 et. seq., Section 404)• All silvicultural operations:(410 KAR 5:026, 5:029, 5:030, and 5:031)• Activities near high-quality waters and outstanding national resource waters: (401 KAR 5:029, 5:030, and 5:031)• Activities near wild rivers: (KRS 146.200 et seq.and 401 KAR 4:100-140)

These are the minimum standards for Wetlands required by law: • Minimize construction of permanent roads and locate landing on higher grounds.• Restrict vehicle traffic to a minimum.• Avoid stream crossings if possible.• Leave 50 - 70% of overstory to shade perennial streams and sloughs.



Forest Access Roads

why? Before harvesting, access roads need to be constructed, unless existing roads are present and adequate to handle the amount of truck traffic. Road layout needs to be conducted with the assistance of a forest engineer. Even temporary roads alter the forest landscape, so you want to minimize the negative impact and be cautious when locating access roads.

control points: Control points are landscape features that help you determine areas to avoid when locating access roads, skid trails, and log decks. You can save time and money by drawing these features on your topo map before meeting with a forester or road engineer:• County road access points • Waterways (streams, wetlands, springs, sloughs, and ponds)• Seeps • Rock outcrops• Thin soil• Sinkholes: Divert runoff from haul/access roads, skid trails, and log landings so it does not drain directly into sinkholes, sinking streams, or caves. If runoff does enter a sinkhole, a UIC permit (contact Division of Water 502-564-3410) may be required. Leave a buffer zone between any disturbed area and the open swallet of a sinkhole. Buffer zones should be 30 feet for areas of 5 percent slope, and an additional 10 feet in width should be added to this zone for each 10 percent increase in slope.

forest access roads checklist:All access roads need to be built to specific engineering standards in order to prevent any possible safety hazards. Furthermore, road grades should not be 15 percent or greater. Those areas where the road grade is 15 percent are limited in Kentucky to 200 feet in length.

Select or design the access road entrance to provide adequate traffic safety and to minimize rutting and soil erosion problems (place larger size rock at the access road entrance to remove mud and dirt from truck tires).

Decide on temporary or permanent roads.

Layout roads to fit the landscape and access all areas of the tract where access is needed or desirable.

Follow contour lines as much as possible to avoid steep grades.

Avoid unstable soil and other sensitive areas (sinkholes, wetlands, waterways).

To manage surface water on your road, consider using appropriate road prism techniques: crown the road, in-slope or out-slope the road, side ditches, cross drainage, ditch turnouts, broad-based dips, culverts or bridges, and the application of crushed stone on road surface to minimize erosion.

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Keep roads out of the SMZ except to cross streams. Avoid stream crossings if possible.

Open roads to sunlight so that the road can dry out faster (technical term for this practice is “day lighting”).

Consider placing a caution sign at the access road entrance.

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forest access roads design for proper drainage, stability and safety. Follow the guidelines (below) according to traffic use, soil composition and degree of slope.

outsloped road

crowned and ditched road

insloped road




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Remember, these structures are only as effective as their intended capacity to divert, trap, or slow down water and must be sized appropriately to accomplish water and soil protection.

Following are spacing guidelines for broad based dips and culvert installation for cross-draining access roads. It makes more sense to properly implement these measures. By doing it right the first time, you’ll save money, time, and the headaches of having to stop your operation to fix problems.

If you’re not able to be present during the entire harvest, visit the harvest site frequently. If you see problems with any aspect of the operation, immediately notify the logger to remedy the situation. Often the logger is very busy trying to complete his/her job on your property and may not notice problem areas. It is much more difficult to get a logger to return to a job once he or she considers it completed.

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road grade(%)

distance between dips (in feet)

broad based dips:Broad based dips are gentle rolls in the center profile of the road. It is meant to be a somewhat permanent structure that most vehicles can travel over. These dips can be difficult to erect on steep grades or rocky roads. Only use on roads with a 10% or less slope.

When properly constructed, a broad based dip will

channel water off the road and into the ground cover.

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water turnouts: Water turnouts should be used wherever you have a safe outlet site for excess water to flow from the road. Adding brush barriers or rip-rap at the dispersal area will help absorb heavy flow and filter sediment from the runoff.

water turnoutroad grade

(%)spacing (in feet)

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sculverts:There are two primary types of culverts: box or open culvert, and pipe or relief culvert.

Box culverts are usually temporary for intercepting heavy runoff or for smaller operations. They should be installed at an angle so only a single tire hits at a time. By contrast, pipe culverts can be permanent, but only if you periodically check to make sure the pipe is free of debris. Also make sure each end of the pipe extends at least 1 foot beyond the road width.

Box Culvert (detail)

box culvert

pipe culvert



Stream Crossings

what are they? Stream crossings are the locations where road or skid trails intersect streams. Stream crossings are the most frequent site of water sedimentation or pollution from forestry activities. There are several stream crossing options to reduce the potential for water quality degradation, and each site requires specific crossing consideration. The following information describes pipe culverts, bridges and fords, and offers guidelines for suitable application. Take your specific site into consideration, then weigh the costs and protection offered by each option.

Use good common sense. Perhaps the best way for you to minimize cost and disturbance is to avoid crossing the stream altogether.

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pipe culverts: Pipe Culverts are typically expensive to construct, but can be permanent. Following use on temporary roads and skid trails, they can be carefully removed to minimize soil disturbance. Size is the key consideration when installing culverts. Insufficient sized culverts have the potential to clog, create pools of water and create road stream diversion, which puts the stream on the road instead of through the culvert. The culvert should be installed with a 2 to 4 percent downstream angle to flush out debris. Where culverts are installed for cross-draining roads, place rock on the outflow of the pipe to reduce the water’s scouring capacity on the downhill side as well as reduce the velocity.

Backfill material should be free of debris and the culvert should be covered with fill to a depth of one-half the diameter of the culvert.

bridges: There are numerous styles of bridges, both temporary and permanent, used to cross streams. They are often used where culverts aren’t able to handle the stream flow. Bridges must support very heavy loads, and therefore construction has many technical aspects. Unless you plan on implementing a log bridge as a temporary crossing, use the assistance of a civil engineer.

Stream channel and stream banks should be protected from erosion during construction by continual mulching or vegetative ground cover. Abutments and headwalls may be needed to handle flood conditions and stabilize the approaches to the crossing area. Use vegetation or ground cover to stabilize road approaches and road banks.

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fords: Fords are used for temporary or minimum-use crossings. There are some instances where fords would be less intrusive on a stream than installing a culvert(s). However, fords should only be utilized if there is a sufficient firm base to withstand the heavy loads that will cross it (i.e., bedrock or geotextiles filled with crushed rock). Riprap stone, brush, poles or other materials stabilize the road or skid trail approach to a ford, and the streambed to protect the stream channel (Hamilton, 1999). Remove brush, poles, and any other materials after use of the ford.

stream crossing checklist:

Avoid crossings if possible.

Determine if you need temporary or permanent crossings.

If crossing is temporary, plan to remove immediately after use and fully rehabilitate the area to prevent sedimentation.

If crossing is permanent, select the type of crossing that will adequately handle the task and will protect stream banks, stream water quality, aquatic habitat, and ensure safe fish passage through the culvert.

Plan for emergency spillways during flood conditions.

Mark your stream crossing locations as you layout your roads and skid trails with the help of a forester or engineer.

Identify stream crossings on a topographic map that you have verified “in the field” for accuracy.

Road and skid trail approaches to stream crossings should be at right angles. A right angle approach accompanied with water turnouts and hay bales will reduce the amount of sediment-laden runoff that might enter the stream.

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Skid Trails

what are they? Skid trails are exactly as they sound. They are pathways used to drag the felled timber to a log deck. Skid trails, like access roads, can cause sedimentation in waterbodies. Skid trails are used by conventional logging systems—a skidder is a piece of heavy equipment that extracts the timber to the log deck. Tractors and rubber-tired skidders are commonplace in the southeast. They are really hard on soil and plants. The tires compact the soil and cause rutting and puddling.

The term “yarding” is also used when describing the act of moving the logs from the stump to the landing. Yarding is often associated with aerial logging systems which employ cable yarding machines, helicopters, or balloons in steep and/or inaccessible areas. Aerial logging systems usually fully suspend the log above the ground when transporting them from the stump to the landing area. For more information about aerial logging methods see the special section on Alternative Harvesting Options.

Poorly laid out skid trails will cost you money by taking longer to move logs to the log deck and can damage water quality and soil productivity. Therefore, take the necessary precautions by laying out the skid trail pattern with a professional before harvest.

skid trail checklist:

Skid

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This photo shows what not to do. This poorly

constructed skid trail shows a skidder being pulled

up the trail by a bulldozer. This is not only danger-

ous, but creates twice the erosion.

Select the proper skidding system that fits the site and task and provides full environmental protection.

Limit the number of stream crossings. This saves time and money.

Avoid entering the SMZ.

Begin felling and skidding at the most distant point and progress toward the log deck. This pattern will allow logging debris to be placed on bare-ground areas to control soil erosion.

Plan to install water diversion structures and/or techniques to manage surface water and control soil erosion.

Follow the contour of the slope to minimize damage.

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Log Decks/Log LandingsYour log deck, or landing, is the staging area where the cut timber is hauled to and then placed upon trucks for transport to the mill. This area receives the heaviest amount of traffic during the harvest operation. It should be situated in an optimal location that can withstand heavy impact and allows the skidder or tractor adequate area for easy turns.

log deck checklist: Keep the number of log decks to a minimum.

Plan, where possible, for skidding up the hill. Skidding downward on a hill can compound erosion.

Consider access to decks by highway vehicles and by skidding equipment.

Select sites that have firm ground and gentle slopes (for drainage) as much as possible. Do not use SMZs, buffers or other sensitive areas for loading trucks.

Plan for immediate containment, removal, and disposal of accidental petroleum, gasoline or oil spills.

Place a garbage can near the log deck so that trash is not thrown on the ground.

Place hay bales, silt fences, or slash on the low side of the slope to capture any runoff during rain.

Place crushed rock throughout the log deck to strengthen the area against the potential rutting and puddling of forest soils. This practice will also reduce erosion potential and lessen the opportunities for trucks to get bogged down.

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the Forest Conservation Act (FCA) /Agriculture Water Quality Act (AWQA)minimum requirementsThese are the minimum standards for forest access roads, stream crossings and skid trails required by law : • Do not operate skidders or other logging equipment off hard-surfaced roads under conditions that may cause the development of excessive rutting. Excess rutting is defined as a point where ruts cannot be resurfaced with available equipment. • Construct roads and skid trails so that grades are kept to a minimum. When possible, access roads should not exceed a grade of 15 percent except for short stretches of 200 feet or less where grades should not exceed 18 percent. • Install water bars, culverts, or other drainage structures at intervals appropriate to remove water from the road or skid trail to prevent damage and erosion to the surface of the road, trail, or the forest floor from channelized flow. • Use or install bridges or culverts to cross streams (perennial or intermittent) or ephemeral channels where feasible. • Cross streams or ephemeral channels at right angles where bridges or culverts are not used. • Do not leave disturbed soil or concentrated logging slash in ephemeral channels. Locate yards and landings outside of streamside management zones (SMZs) and ensure they have adequate drainage.

other regulatory requirements:• Construction in floodplains: (KRS 151.250) • Filling or draining of wetlands: (U.S. Clean Water Act, Section 404)• All silvicultural operations: (410 KAR 5:026, 5:029, 5:030, and 5:031)• Activities near high quality waters and outstanding national resource waters: (401 KAR 5:029, 5:030, and 5:031)• Activities near wild rivers: (KRS 146.200 et seq. and 401 KAR 4:100-140)

forest access roads and stream crossingslog landings and skid trails—required by law The following BMPs are required by law. To obtain a complete copy of these requirements, contact the Division of Forestry or visit http://www.ca.uky.edu/agc/pubs/for/for67/for67.htm

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Harvest—Land and Water Protection Measures24A–

Harvest Planning

why is planning important? It takes continual vigilance during the harvest operation to control erosion and sedimentation. Keep an eye on potential trouble spots and fix problems as they occur. During harvesting, you can control sedimentation with temporary structures that interrupt the flow of water. This causes sediment to be deposited, trapped and filtered before it reaches a water body. If you have not met with an attorney to draft a harvest contract, do so immediately!

Temporary stabilization measures include:

Brush barriers: Slash material placed at the toe of a slope or downhill side of a road or culvert; can accompany water bars or broad based dips.Burlap or jute material: Dams made of sheet material to entrap sediment and release water through the fabric.Cribs: A square or rectangular structure built of natural materials (logs) and located below an elevated culvert pipe outlet. The crib is filled with stone or brush to absorb and dissipate the force of falling water.Silt fence: A plastic sheeting material with the capability of retaining most suspended materials and releasing waters through the fabric. Not recommended for use in permanent flowing streams.Hay or straw Bales: Bales are placed end to end to form a small check dam, a drainage or pipe outlets. Bales are secured in place with stakes. Not recommended for use in permanent flowing streams or for large diameter culverts.Grass or vegetation slough way: A sediment trap of heavy grass sod and vegetation into which the water is directed by ditching. This will slow water velocity and trap sediment.Riprap: Brush, slabs of wood, or rock materials used to absorb or dissipate the forces of concentrated runoff.Trash dams: Log dams within small gullies to slow the flow of water and trap sediment.

The aforementioned materials should be installed as a system in concert with the following construction methods. Remember these structures are only as effective as their intended capacity to divert, trap, or slow down water and must be sized appropriately to accomplish water and soil protection.

Following are spacing guidelines for broad based dips, and culvert installation for cross-draining access roads. It makes more sense to properly implement these measures. By doing it right the first time, you’ll save money, time, and the headaches of having to stop your operation to fix problems.

If you’re not able to be present during the entire harvest, visit it frequently. If you see problems with any aspect of the operation, immediately notify the logger to remedy the situation. Often the logger is very busy trying to complete his/her job on your property and may not notice problem areas. It is much more difficult to get a logger to return to a job once he or she considers it completed.

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Harvest—Land and Water Protection Measures 25A–

Forest Buffers aka Streamside Management Zones (smz’s)

You have already identified your buffer zones during the PreHarvest planning phase of your harvest operation. Now continue to provide protection to this buffer area during the harvesting operation by observing the following precautionary measures.

harvest operation checklist: Restrict harvesting to outside of the buffer area (details on pages A-7 and A-8) to allow for adequate shade, stream

bank protection and surface flow filtering capacity.

Keep debris (slash, garbage) out of the stream.

Do not skid logs in buffer area.

Never skid logs down a natural drainage.

Store fuel and servicing equipment outside of the buffer area.

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Forest Access RoadsYour access road will undergo heavy use during the timber-harvesting phase of your land management. However, a properly laid out road will withstand the traffic. It is very important to continually check the road. One day of heavy use can destroy a poorly constructed crossing.

harvest operation checklist: Provide for traffic safety.

Protect the highway and stream(s) or drainage ditch from debris.

Consider the application of crushed stone over geotextile fabric to prevent deep ruts where soft, wet soil conditions occur.

Maintain your road surface and keep in good repair. Assure good surface drainage by keeping your drainage structures in good working order.

Do not skid down your access road, where possible, to protect your drainage structures (cross drains, ditches, broad based dips, water turn outs).

This photo shows a geotextile (or geoweb) installa-

tion. Technically a geotextile filter fabric is a synthetic

material placed on the flat, under road fill. Its primary

use is to keep layers separate, confine the road aggre-

gate and to distribute the weight of the load.

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Stream CrossingsFrequently inspect all stream crossings throughout the operation. These areas are most susceptible to water quality degradation, and more often than not, the source of sedimentation and pollution.

harvest operation checklist: Restrict stream crossings to only those vehicles involved in the actual removal and transport of timber.

Regularly inspect the stream banks for erosion and promptly mitigate the problem with straw, hay, geoweb or other measures previously mentioned.

For Bridges: inspect the bridge surface and remove mud and debris. This is a safety and an environmental protection measure. Examine stream banks at the crossing for evidence of scour and erosion and fix problem areas immediately.

For Culverts: inspect the culverts for debris and remove any debris that will possibly plug the culvert. Check pipe outlets to see if scouring is occurring. If so, remedy the problem, if possible, with large rocks to dissipate the water velocity.

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Skid TrailsYour proper layout of the skid trails will reduce numerous problems that would have otherwise occurred, but there are always exceptions and instances when skid trails become problem areas. Therefore, periodically check the conditions of your skid trails, especially at stream crossing locations.

harvest operation checklist: Avoid operating equipment on stream banks and in the buffer area.

Follow the land contour as much as possible when extracting timber.

Skid up-slope when possible.

Install rolling dips and water turnouts as needed to remove surface water from skid trails. Turnouts need to empty into filter areas, such as slash, hay bales, straw, etc., and not directly into a stream.

Cross streams and wet areas only where permanent or temporary crossing structures are installed.



Log LandingsYour log deck will see the greatest amount of traffic during the harvesting phase. The steps you made during PreHarvest planning will reduce, but not eliminate, potential problems.

harvest operation checklist: Maintain adequate soil cover using logging debris or other suitable material.

Immediately clean up any petroleum spills and control leaking fuel or hydraulic hoses.

Remove trash every day from the site.

Inspect surface drainage, and if needed, construct a berm on the up-slope side of the log deck to keep water from entering the log deck area.

Have skidders enter the log deck from the down-slope side to prevent water collection and pooling on the deck.

Maintain your filter areas around the perimeter of the log deck.

Collect and dispose of waste oil, tires, etc. by delivering them to a recycling/disposal center.

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PostHarvest—Land and Water Protection Measures30A–

PostHarvest Inspection (Closeout Phase)

why is closing out the operation important? Before any equipment leaves the site, inspect the entire harvest area for quality assurance. If problem areas exist within any locations of the harvest then notify the logger immediately and have him remedy the situation. In the following pages there are checklists for each area—buffer areas, roads, etc. Pay particular attention to sensitive areas (wetlands, sink holes etc.). Double check to make sure no additional timber was accidentally harvested outside of your designated harvest area. Although this is not common, it can take place and should be examined.

If you carefully followed the PreHarvest and harvest guidelines, then the closeout phase should be a fairly simple process. Unfortunately, for those who jump into a harvest operation, this final phase can bring regrettable and costly surprises.

Be vigilant about checking all impacted areas before the logger or forester leaves your property. Once the equipment leaves, there is an even greater cost and headache associated with having the logger come back to mitigate problem areas. This can really present a challenge if they have already gone on to the next job.

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PostHarvest—Land and Water Protection Measures 31A–

Forest Buffers aka Streamside Management Zone

If you properly planned and inspected your SMZ during harvest then the following steps should be trouble free.

PostHarvest inspection checklist: Remove any obstruction from perennial or intermittent streams that are present as a result of harvesting.

Stabilize areas of bare soil with slash, seeding with native grasses or other suitable methods.

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Road Closure (if applicable)There are several steps to take to properly close out temporary and permanent access roads. Roads are expensive to install, so it’s fitting that you spend additional time during closeout to either restore the area (temporary road) or make sure the road can be well maintained (permanent road). Again, take these steps before the logger, forester or any equipment leaves your property.

PostHarvest inspection checklist:permanent roads

Smooth and reshape road grade.

Stabilize cut banks and fill slopes by establishing grass through hydroseed, geoweb, mulch, or straw.

Clean out ditches, culverts and water turnouts so they will function properly. Revisit these sites at least twice a season.

Close your access road to unwanted traffic with gates or other suitable means. You may want to post “no trespassing” signs to further protect against liability.

temporary roads Remove culverts or other stream crossing structures.

Install water bars, on sloping road segments and especially on both sides of areas where stream crossings have been removed. (See water bars). Supplement water bars with vegetative cover, straw or hay to reduce erosion potential and allow seeds to germinate and root.

Water bars should extend the entire width of the road, placed at 30 degrees from perpendicular and drain the down-slope side of the road.

Do not confuse water bars with tank traps. A “tank trap” is a poorly constructed water bar where the soil has been pushed up from a berm with no escape route for the water. These berms will always fail over time!

Extra precautions should take place at stream crossings. The more BMPs working as system, the better.

Make periodic inspections followed up by basic maintenance.

Close off your retired access road to unwanted traffic, including ATV and four wheel drive vehicles.

Closed roads make great hiking trails!

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Protect yourself from trespassers and unneces-

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gate. Reseed as soon as possible.



road grade(%)

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water bars: Water bars should be installed after harvest activ-ities are completed. It’s recommended to install water bars at the end of the road or skid trail first. Work your way toward the beginning of the road to avoid unnecessarily crossing over installed bars. To supplement water bars, plant grass or use slash on the roads that will be closed. Make sure the ends of the water bars are open to keep water from accumulating.



seeding bare soil with native plantsAfter harvest, reseed your log deck, skid trails, access road, and stream crossings with a mixture of native plant seed. Seeding with native grasses (such as Big Bluestem, Switchgrass, Eastern gamagrass) not only reduces erosion potential, but it nourishes wildlife, too.

Native plants of Appalachian Kentucky will establish better because they are already adapted to the local soil and climate conditions. Native plant seed can be applied to bare soil areas through broadcast spreading or hydroseeding. Hydroseeding is a process whereby seed, fertilizer and wood fiber mulch are mixed together to form a slurry that is applied by using a machine to form a uniform application over the soil. Broadcast spreading is the least expensive option, but hydroseeding may produce better plant establishment in a shorter amount of time. It is important to note that seeding with native plants reduces the spread of invasive plant species. Invasive plant species (such as Tree of Heaven and Multiflora Rose) have a detrimental effect on local wildlife populations and will out- compete existing native plant communities for nutrients and sunlight. For more information on invasive plant species in Kentucky visit: http://www.exoticpestplantcouncil.org/ky/index.htm.

Talk with a local professional before selecting a native seed mixture to ensure proper regeneration. A local professional will know when to apply and which reseeding mixtures/methods work best. Check with your local Fish and Wildlife agent to see if free native grass seed is available.

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Stream CrossingsIf stream crossings are not closed out properly, they have the potential to continually degrade water quality. By conducting proper stream crossing inspections, you’ll limit potential damage, save on costly repairs and the benefits will be long lasting.

PostHarvest inspection checklist:permanent stream crossings

Permanent stream crossings (bridges, culverts) should be cleaned of mud and cleared debris.

Inspect the structure(s) and repair damage to make them serviceable to protect water quality.

Seed, with native grass seed, all bare soil areas including application of mulch, straw, or hay to reduce rainfall impact until the grass has established itself.

Frequently visit these structures to ensure that they are functioning properly, especially after storms.

temporary stream crossings Temporary crossing structures should be removed and channels reshaped to PreHarvest conditions.

Construct water diversions across approaches on both sides of the channel to divert water into filter strips. See illustration in the PreHarvest section, Forest Access Roads.

Use native grass seed on all bare soil areas including the approaches and water diversions. Apply sufficient seed with mulch, straw or hay for protection from storm events until grass is established.

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Notice how the natural vegetation and

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Skid TrailsAll skid trails should be considered temporary. If you followed the PreHarvest and during Harvest checklist, you’ve already reduced the potential for erosion and sedimentation. That said, it is still important to walk the entire length of all skid trails and target problem areas that may need immediate attention. Remember to use straw when you reseed and use filter strips for water diversions.

PostHarvest inspection checklist: Place logging debris (slash) throughout the skid trail to reduce erosion potential. Target the skid trail areas with

the steepest grades.

Construct water diversions on all skid trails. Water bar outlets should drain into filter strips of slash, hay bales, or silt fence to minimize runoff.

Stabilize critical areas (stream crossings, steep slopes) by seeding and mulching in conjunction with water bars to reduce erosion and sedimentation potential.

Fill and smooth ruts if they offer any potential to create gullies.

Remember, skid trails can make great hiking trails!

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Log DecksLog decks receive the greatest amount of traffic which compacts soils. If soils are heavily compacted, it’s possible that seeds may not be able to root and grow. To avoid this problem, rip the soil with a plow to break apart the compacted soils. This will help encourage the seeding and sprouting of the native grasses you apply.

PostHarvest inspection checklist: Provide ground cover on bare soil using grass vegetation as well as slash with mulch, straw, or hay.

If needed, construct berms to redirect the surface water’s flow away from the deck.

Provide drainage on log decks to reduce the pooling potential of water.

Collect all trash and dispose of it properly. Collect and deliver used oil to a recycling center or approved automotive garage.

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The compacted soils on this log deck had

to be “ripped” before the area could be

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Once ripped, seeds begin to sprout and

revegetate the log deck.



Pesticide ApplicationThe long-term management of your forest includes a commitment to sustain the forest landscape for future generations. The condition of the tract, the desired species you wish to regenerate, water quality and soil productivity should all be imperative components of your management plan. You can regenerate your harvested area by either creating a plantation style forestry operation or by promoting natural regeneration. Plantation forests involve intensive site preparation that prepares the land for tree planting. A plantation forest requires commitment, intensive operation and often costly management. Natural regeneration is the common practice in most Appalachian forests. It occurs through coppice regeneration and natural seed dispersion. Coppice regeneration is the sprouting of new tree stems from the trunk of a cut hardwood. Seed regeneration depends upon several site-specific variables and may require intermittent management. Typically, the Appalachian region has enough species diversity that natural regeneration provides optimal results.

If you choose natural regeneration, you also reduce the need for pesticide application.

If you choose to apply chemicals, then you should take strict precautions to protect your water, soils and wildlife. A forester or other natural resource professional can help you conduct soil tests to determine fertilizer needs. This will prevent you from over-applying fertilizer and save you money.

pesticide application checklist: Apply only according to the label directions, using the minimal rate to accomplish the desired results.

Do not apply directly to surface waters, wetlands, and sinkholes.

Do not broadcast apply in buffer areas; completely avoid any application in Riparian zones.

Comply with the federal and state regulations for filter strips along roads, skid trails, residences, schools, etc.

Mix chemicals and clean tanks only where spills will not enter streams, lakes, ponds, wetlands, or sink holes.

Immediately report accidental spills of pesticides or fertilizers into surface waters to Kentucky’s Department of Environmental Quality.

Dispose of containers according to label instructions and state laws.

If hiring a contractor, require a written contract and proof of appropriate licenses, insurance and bonding.

If using aerial application, do not apply chemicals if wind speeds exceed 6 miles per hour or temperatures are over 90°.

Use only pesticides approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for Kentucky. Follow package instructions carefully.

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Parting adviceAfter a site disturbance like timber harvesting, it’s very important to permanently stabilize any bare soils with vegetative cover. This is especially true of stream crossings, roads, skid trails, and log decks. These areas should be inspected at least once a season to keep them in good working order until nature has reclaimed the land.

Use skid trails and retired access roads for your hiking and biking enjoyment. Not only do they provide an area for exercise, but they also make great wildlife viewing habitat, especially if you seeded these areas with desirable wildlife feed. Also, stream crossing areas provide an uncluttered location for a great fishing spot.

There are several state agencies in Kentucky that can help you manage your forest and it is greatly encouraged that you meet with these people and get their expert advice. Their advice can only improve your management plan and your happiness with the outcome. See a complete listing in the Handbook index.

Remember, harvesting timber is just one step of land stewardship. Frequent your property. Take pride in your accomplish-ment and the fact that you are taking steps to perpetuate your legacy to your family and all of Appalachia.

Now that you are aware of the many key steps to take in proper forest management, map out your plan, follow it and enjoy.

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Glossary

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Glossary of Forestry TermsACRE - An area of land measuring about 43,560 square feet. A square 1-acre plot measures about 209 feet by 209 feet; a circular acre has a radius of 117.75 feet.

AESTHETICS - (a) Sensitivity to or appreciation of the forest’s beauty through recognition of its unique and varied components. (b) Beauty through an orderly appearance.

ALL-AGED or UNEVEN-AGED MANAGEMENT - The practice of managing a forest by periodically select-ing and harvesting individual trees or groups of trees from the stand while preserving its natural appear-ance. Most common in hardwood forests.

ALL-AGED or UNEVEN-AGED STAND - A forest stand composed of trees of different ages and sizes.

ANNUAL - A plant that lives or grows for only one year or one growing season.

ANNUAL WILDLIFE SEED MIXTURE - A mixture of soybean, millet, cow pea, sorghum, lespedeza, buckwheat, and other seeds from which single-season plants are grown to serve as food or protective cover for wildlife. Some mixtures reseed naturally, while others require reseeding, light disking, and fertilization.

BASAL AREA - (a) The cross-sectional area (in square feet) of a tree trunk at breast height (4.5 feet above the ground). For example, the basal area of a tree that measures 14 inches in diameter at breast height is about 1 square foot. (b) The sum basal areas of the individual trees within 1 acre of forest. For example, a well-stocked pine stand might have a basal area of 80 to 120 square feet per acre.

BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY aka BIODIVERSITY - The variety of life forms in a given area. Diversity can be categorized in terms of the number of species, the variety in the area’s plant and animal communities, the genetic variability of the animals, or a combination of these elements.

BOARD FOOT - A unit of wood measuring 144 cubic inches. A 1-inch by 12-inch shelving board that is 1 foot long is equal to 1 board foot. Board foot volume is determined by: length (feet) x width (inches) x thickness (inches)/divided by 12

BUFFER STRIP - A narrow zone or strip of land, trees, or vegetation bordering an area. Common examples include visual buffers, which screen the view along roads, and streamside buffers, which are used to protect water quality. Buffers may also be used to prevent the spread of forest pests.

CANOPY - A layer or multiple layers of branches and foliage at the top or crown of a forest’s trees.

CAPITAL GAINS - Profit on the sale of an asset such as timber, land, or other property. Reporting timber sales as capital gains provides certain tax advantages over reporting revenues as ordinary income.


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CLEAR-CUT HARVEST - A harvesting and regeneration method that removes all trees within a given area.

CLIMAX COMMUNITY - A relatively stable and undisturbed plant community that has evolved through stages and adapted to its environment.

COMPETITION - The struggle between trees to obtain sunlight, nutrients, water, and growing space. Every part of the tree - from the roots to the crown - competes for space and food.

CONSERVATION - The protection, improvement, and wise use of natural resources for present and future generations.

CONTROLLED BURN - (See Prescribed Burn.)

CORD - A stack of round or split wood consisting of 128 cubic feet of wood, bark, and air space. A standard cord measures 4 feet by 4 feet by 8 feet. A face cord or short cord is 4 feet by 8 feet by any length of wood under 4 feet.

COST-SHARE ASSISTANCE - An assistance program offered by various state and federal agencies that pays a fixed rate or percentage of the total cost necessary to implement some forestry or agricultural practice.

COVER - (a) Any plant that intercepts rain drops before they reach the soil or that holds soil in place. (b) A hiding place or vegetative shelter for wildlife from predators or inclement weather.

CROP TREE - Any tree selected to grow to final harvest or to a selected size. Crop trees are selected for quality, species, size, timber potential, or wildlife value.

CROWN - The branches and foliage at the top of a tree.

CROWN-CLASS - A tree classification system based on the tree’s relative height, foliage density, and ability to intercept light. Crown-class measures past growth performance and calls attention to crop trees that could benefit from future thinning and harvest operations. There are four classifications: • Dominant Trees - Larger-than-average trees with broad, well-developed crowns. These trees receive direct sunlight from all sides and above. • Codominant Trees - Average-to-fairly large trees with medium-sized crowns that form the forest canopy. These trees receive full light from above but are crowded on the sides. • Intermediate Trees - Medium-sized trees with small crowns below the general level of the canopy. Intermediate trees receive little direct light, are poor crop trees, and should be removed during thinning operations. • Suppressed or Overtopped Trees - Small trees that grow below the tree canopy and receive no direct sunlight from any direction.


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CRUISE - A survey of forestland to locate timber and estimate its quantity by species, products, size, quality, or other characteristics.

CULL - A tree or log of marketable size that is useless for all but firewood or pulpwood because of crookedness, rot, injuries, or damage from disease or insects.

CUTTING CONTRACT - A written, legally binding document used in the sale of standing timber. The contract specifies the provisions covering the expectations and desires of both buyer and seller.

CUTTING CYCLE - The planned time interval between major harvesting operations within the same stand - usually within uneven-aged stands. For example, on a 10-year cutting cycle in a hardwood stand, trees are harvested every 10 years.

DAYLIGHTING - A practice in which trees shading an access road are removed to increase the sunlight on the roadway and along its periphery. This relatively inexpensive practice maximizes forest edge and cover for wildlife and maintains passable roads year- round.

DIAMETER AT BREAST HEIGHT (DBH) - The diameter of a tree measured in inches at breast height - a standard 4.5 feet above the ground.

DIAMETER-LIMIT CUTTING - A selection method in which all marketable trees above a specified diameter are harvested. Diameter-limit cutting can lead to long-term degradation of the stand.

DIRECT or BROADCAST SEEDING - (a) Sowing seed for broad coverage from the air or on the ground. (b) Seeding of forest stands, roadways, or specified plots for wildlife.

DRUM CHOPPING - A site preparation technique in which logging debris is leveled by a bulldozer pulling a large drum filled with water. Chopped areas are often burned to further reduce debris and control sprouting before seedlings are planted.

ECOLOGY - The science or study of the relationships between organisms and their environment.

ECOSYSTEM- The components of a particular habitat, such as a pond or forest, together with the physical environment in which they live. Components of ecosystems are often interdependent. That is, what affects one plant or animal will likely impact the other.

EDGE - The transition between two different types or ages of vegetation.

ENDANGERED or THREATENED SPECIES - A species is endangered when the total number of remaining members may not be sufficient to reproduce enough offspring to ensure survival of the species. A threatened species exhibits declining or dangerously low populations but still has enough members to maintain or increase numbers.


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ENVIRONMENT - The interaction of climate, soil, topography, and other plants and animals in any given area. An organism’s environment influences its form, behavior, and survival.

EPHEMERAL STREAMS - Waterbodies that flow only during significant rainfall. They flow in natural channels, but the channel bottom of an ephemeral stream is usually below the water table.

EROSION - The wearing away of land or soil by the action of wind, water, or ice.

EVAPOTRANSPIRATION - The evaporation of water from the soil and the transpiration of water from the plants that live in that soil. Approximately one-quarter of a forest’s annual rainfall returns to the air through evapotranspiration.

EVEN-AGED MANAGEMENT - A forest management method in which all trees in an area are harvested at one time or in several cuttings over a short time to produce stands that are all the same age or nearly so. This management method is commonly applied to shade-intolerant conifers and hardwoods.

FIREBREAK - Any nonflammable barrier used to slow or stop fires. Several types of firebreaks are mineral soil barriers; barriers of green, slow-burning vegetation; and mechanically cleared areas.

FLAT or STRAIGHT PLANTING - Planting trees directly into the ground without beds or, in some cases, without first moving logging debris.

FORAGE - Vegetation such as leaves, stems, buds, and some types of bark, that can be eaten for food and energy.

FOREST MANAGEMENT - (a) Proper care and control of wooded land to maintain health, vigor, product flow, and other values (soil condition, water quality, wildlife preservation, and beauty) in order to accomplish specific objectives. (b) The practical application of scientific, economic, and social principles to forest property.

FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN - Written guidelines for current and future management practices recom-mended to meet an owner’s objectives.

FOREST STEWARDSHIP PLAN - A written document listing activities that enhance or improve forest resources (wildlife, timber, soil, water, recreation, and aesthetics) on private land over a 5-year period.

FOREST STEWARDSHIP PROGRAM - A cooperative, technical-assistance program designed to encourage multiple resource management on private forestland. Emphasis is placed on preharvest planning to enhance and protect forest-based resources. Authorized under the 1990 Farm Bill, the program is based on national guidelines but is set by individual states.


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FOREST TYPE - Groups of tree species commonly growing in the same stand because their environmental requirements are similar.

FORESTRY - The science, art, and practice of managing and using trees, forests, and their associated resources for human benefit.

FUEL LOADING - A buildup of fuels, especially easily ignited, fast-burning fuels such as pinestraw.

GEOTEXTILE or GEOWEB - a synthetic material placed on the flat, under road fill. Its primary use is to keep layers separate, confine the road aggregate and to distribute the weight of the load.

GIRDLING - A physical cutting or disruption of the cambial sap flow within a tree. Girdling by humans, animals, or insects can often kill a tree.

GROUP SELECTION - (a) The removal of small groups of trees to regenerate shade-intolerant trees in the opening (usually at least 1/4 acre). (b) A specific type of selective cutting.

HABITAT - (a) An area in which a specific plant or animal can naturally live, grow, and reproduce. (b) For wildlife, habitat is the combination of food, water, cover, and space.

HARDWOODS (DECIDUOUS TREES) - Trees with broad, flat leaves as opposed to coniferous or needled trees. Wood hardness varies among the hardwood species, and some are actually softer than some softwoods.

HIGH-GRADING - A harvesting technique that removes only the biggest and most valuable trees from a stand and provides high returns at the expense of future growth potential. Poor quality, shade-loving trees tend to dominate in these continually high-graded sites.

IMPROVEMENT CUT - An intermediate cut made to improve the form, quality, heath, or wildlife potential of the remaining stand.

INCENTIVE - A reward for improving forest management. Incentives include reimbursement of some expenses but can also take the form of an abatement of property or income tax.

MARGINAL LAND - Land that does not consistently produce a profitable crop because of infertility, drought, or other physical limitations such as shallow soils.

MARKETING - The selling of timber or other forest resources. Successful sellers seek a satisfactory price through competition, skillful negotiation, knowledge of timber markets, and the aid of a competent broker or consultant.

MARKING - (a) The physical process of selecting trees to be cut or left during a harvest. (b) Delineating a boundary. Marking is usually done by spraying a spot of bright paint on a prominent part of the tree.


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MAST - Fruits or nuts used as a food source by wildlife. Soft mast include most fruits with fleshy coverings, such as persimmon, dogwood seed, or blackgum seed. Hard mast refers to nuts such as acorns and beech, pecan, and hickory nuts.

MATURE TREE - A tree that has reached a desired size or age for its intended use. Size, age, or economic maturity varies depending on the species and intended use.

MBF - Abbreviation denoting 1,000 board feet. MBF is a typical unit of trade for dimension lumber and sawtimber stumpage. (It takes 11 MBF of wood to build an average 1,900-square-foot house.)

MENSURATION or BIOMETRICS - (a) The measurement and calculation of volume, growth, and develop-ment of individual trees or stands and their timber products. (b) A measurement of forestlands.

MERCHANTABLE HEIGHT - The stem length, normally measured from the ground to a 10-, 6-, or 4-inch diameter top, above which no other saleable product can be cut. Diameter, local markets, limbs, knots, and other defects collectively influence merchantable height.

MIXED STAND - A timber stand in which less than 80 percent of the trees in the main canopy are of a single species.

MULTIPLE USE - The management of land or forest for more than one purpose, such as wood production, water quality, wildlife, recreation, aesthetics, or clean air. (See Stewardship.)

NATURAL STAND (NATURAL REGENERATION) - A stand of trees grown from natural seed fall or sprouting.

NUTRIENTS - Elements necessary for growth and reproduction. Primary plant nutrients are nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

ON THE STUMP - Standing, uncut timber.

PERENNIAL - Plants that live or grow for more than one year. Some resprout from a root system or reseed themselves every year.

PERENNIAL WILDLIFE MIXTURE - A mixture of all or some of the following: shrub lespedeza, partridge pea, cowpea, annual lespedeza, reseeding soybeans, and other perennial plants that are beneficial to wildlife.

PEST - Any organism that is out of place or causes stress to a desired organism.

PESTICIDE - Any chemical used to kill or control pests.


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46A–

PHOSPHATE - A chemical compound that aids root growth and is essential in energy transfer. It is commonly incorporated into beds as triple super phosphate (TSP) at time of planting.

PLANT or HABITAT DIVERSITY - A variety of food or cover for wildlife. Variation may occur at one point in time or over a period of time such as during the course of a season. Seasonal diversity of food and cover is often critical to the survival of a species.

PLANTATION - Planted pines or hardwoods, typically in an ordered configuration such as equally spaced rows.

POLES or POLETIMBER - Trees from 5 to 7 inches in diameter at breast height.

PREDATOR - An animal that preys on and devours other animals.

PREDATOR GUARD - A physical barrier used to keep one animal from eating another. Usually refers to protection devices on nest boxes.

PRESCRIBED or CONTROLLED BURN - The use of fire under specific environmental conditions to achieve forest management objectives. Used to reduce hazardous fuel levels, control unwanted vegetation, favor desired vegetation, and improve visibility and wildlife habitat.

PRESENT USE VALUATION - Property tax relief classification based on the land’s productivity for agriculture, horticulture, or forestry production, rather than for market value. Can result in substantial tax savings in areas where land values are high. Some restrictions and penalties apply, including a 3-year roll back provision with interest. Consult your county tax supervisor for details.

PRESERVATION - An attempt to keep forests in an undisturbed state through the control of internal and external influences.

PULPWOOD - Wood used in the manufacture of paper, fiberboard, or other wood fiber products. Pulpwood-sized trees are usually a minimum of 4 inches in diameter.

PURE STAND - A timber stand in which at least 75 percent of the trees in the main crown canopy are of a single species.

REFORESTATION - Reestablishing a forest by planting or seeding an area from which forest vegetation has been removed.

REGENERATION CUT - A cutting strategy in which old trees are removed while favorable environmental conditions are maintained for the establishment of a new stand of seedlings.


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47A–

REGISTERED LANDS - A permit-only hunting program in which land is registered with and patrolled by the Wildlife Resources Commission. Hunters without a permit issued by the landowner are cited for trespass and prosecuted without need for the landowner to appear in court or swear out a warrant.

REPRODUCTION - (a) The process by which young trees grow to become the older trees of the future forest. (b) The process of forest replacement or renewal through natural sprouting or seeding or by the planting of seedlings or direct seeding.

RESIDUAL STAND - Trees left in a stand to grow until the next harvest. This term can refer to crop trees or cull trees.

ROOT COLLAR - The transition zone between stem and root at the ground line of a tree or seedling.

ROTATION - The number of years required to establish and grow trees to a specified size, product, or condition of maturity. A pine rotation may range from as short as 20 years for pulpwood to more than 60 years for sawtimber.

SALE, LUMP SUM (BOUNDARY) - The sale of specified timber on a specified area. The volume may or may not be estimated and published. The buyer is responsible for determining correct volume. The seller guarantees ownership and boundaries.

SALE UNIT - A timber sales arrangement in which the buyer pays for forest products removed in units (measured in cords, MBF, or units of weight). Determination of units removed from the area is verified by mill tally, scale tickets, and buyer’s or seller’s tally.

SALVAGE CUT - The harvesting of dead or damaged trees or of trees in danger of being killed by insects, disease, flooding, or other factors in order to save their economic value.

SAPLING - A small tree, usually between 2 and 4 inches diameter at breast height.

SAWLOG or SAWTIMBER - A log or tree that is large enough (usually 10 to 12 inches in diameter) to be sawed into lumber. Minimum log length is typically 8 feet.

SCARIFYING - For soil: The removal of the top litter layer of an area (usually in strips) for site preparation. For seed: The abrasion or weakening of the seed coat to encourage germination.

SEDIMENTATION - The deposition or settling of soil particles suspended in water.

SEEDLING - (a) A tree, usually less than 2 inches diameter at breast height, that has grown from a seed rather than from a sprout. (b) A nursery-grown tree that has not been transplanted in the nursery.


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SEED TREE CUT - A harvesting method in which a few scattered trees are left in the area to provide seed for a new forest stand. Selection of seed trees should be based upon growth rate, form, seeding ability, wind firmness, and future marketability. This harvesting method produces an even-aged forest.

SEED YEAR - A year in which a given species produces a large seed crop over a sizable area. Some species of trees produce seeds irregularly.

SELECTIVE CUTTING - The periodic removal of individual trees or groups of trees to improve or regenerate a stand.

SHADE-INTOLERANT TREES - Trees that cannot thrive in the shade of larger trees.

SHEARING - Slicing or cutting trees or stumps at the ground line. Shearing may be done at harvest or with a KG blade during site preparation.

SHELTERWOOD CUT - Removing trees on the harvest area in a series of two or more cuttings so new seedlings can grow from the seed of older trees. This method produces an even-aged forest.

SILVICULTURE - The art, science, and practice of establishing, tending, and reproducing forest stands of desired characteristics. It is based on knowledge of species characteristics and environmental requirements.

STEWARDSHIP INCENTIVE PROGRAM (SIP) - A cost-sharing program available to forest landowners who have a multi resource forest stewardship plan. Practices include cost-sharing assistance for the enhancement of forest recreation, fisheries, wildlife, and timber production and the protection of soil and water, wetlands, riparian zones, and rare and endangered species.

SITE INDEX - A relative measure of forest site quality based on the height (in feet) of the dominant trees at a specific age (usually 25 or 50 years, depending on rotation length). Site index information helps estimate future returns and land productivity for timber and wildlife.

SITE PREPARATION - Preparing an area of land for planting, direct seeding, or natural reproduction by burning, chemical vegetation control, or by mechanical operations such as disking, bedding, scarifying, windrowing, or raking.

SLASH - (a) Tree tops, branches, bark, or other residue left on the ground after logging or other forestry operations. (b) Tree debris left after a natural catastrophe.

SOFTWOOD (CONIFER) - A tree belonging to the order Coniferales. Softwood trees are usually evergreen, bear cones, and have needles or scalelike leaves. They include pine, spruces, firs, and cedars.

SOIL TEXTURE - The feel or composition of the soil (sand, silt, or clay) as determined by the size of the soil particles.


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SOIL TYPE - Soils that are alike in all characteristics, including texture of the topsoil. Soil maps and information on site index, erodibility, and other limiting properties are available from your county Soil Conservation Service offices.

SPECIES - A group of related organisms having common characteristics capable of interbreeding. Loblolly and Virginia pine are common species that can be interbred.

STAND - An easily defined area of the forest that is relatively uniform in species composition or age and can be managed as a single unit.

STEWARDSHIP FOREST - A privately owned forest tract that exhibits integrated forest management to protect and enhance wildlife, timber, recreation, natural beauty, and soil and water quality.

STOCKING - A description of the number of trees, basal area, or volume per acre in a forest stand compared with a desired level for balanced health and growth. Most often used in comparative expressions, such as well-stocked, poorly stocked, or overstocked.

STREAMSIDE MANAGEMENT ZONE (SMZ) - An area adjacent to a stream in which vegetation is maintained or managed to protect water quality. Trees may be removed from SMZs as long as the stream bed is not disrupted and sufficient vegetation is left to protect water quality.

STUMPAGE - The value or volume of a tree or group of trees as they stand uncut in the woods (on the stump).

SUCCESSION - The natural sequence of plant community replacement beginning with bare ground and resulting in a final, stable community in which a climax forest is reached. Foresters, wildlife biologists, and farmers constantly battle ecological succession to try to maintain a particular vegetative cover.

SUCCESSIONAL DISKING or MOWING - A wildlife enhancement practice in which a disk harrow or rotary mower is used to knock down existing vegetation every 1 to 3 years to promote the regrowth of annuals, legumes, forbes, and perennials.

SUSTAINABLE FORESTRY - an approach to forest management that focuses on the long term health and value of the forest and its inhabitants. Goals include: providing revenue from timber and non-timber forest products; maintaining and restoring biodiversity and a healthy ecosystem; protecting water quantity and quality; providing for aesthetic enrichment for future generations.

SUSTAINED YIELD - Management of forestland to produce a relatively constant amount of wood products, revenue or wildlife.

THINNING - A tree removal practice that reduces tree density and competition between trees in a stand. Thinning concentrates growth on fewer, high-quality trees, provides periodic income, and generally enhances

See pages A-6 through A-8 for guidelines on the recommended size for your property. Also known as Forest Buffers.


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tree vigor. Heavy thinning can benefit wildlife through the increased growth of ground vegetation.

TIMBER CRUISE - A survey of forestland to locate timber and estimate its quantity by species, products, size, quality, or other characteristics.

TIMBER STAND IMPROVEMENT (TSI) - Improving the quality of a forest stand by removing or deadening undesirable species to achieve desired stocking and species composition. TSI practices include applying herbicides, burning, girdling, or cutting.

TOLERANT SPECIES - A species of tree that has the ability to grow in the shade of other trees and in competition with them.

TREE FARM - A privately owned forest or woodland in which timber crop production is a major manage-ment goal. Many tree farms are officially recognized by the American Tree Farm System, an organization sponsored by the American Forestry Foundation.

TREE SPACING - The distance between trees, which is most often regulated at the time of planting or during a harvest or thinning operation. Spacing, like stand density, affects understory vegetation, seed production, growth rate, and wildlife habitat.

UNDERSTORY - (a) The layer formed by the crowns of smaller trees in a forest. (b) The trees beneath the forest canopy.

WATER BAR - A diagonal ditch or hump in a trail that diverts surface water runoff to minimize soil erosion.

WATER CONTROL - Management of water (both surface and subsurface) to maintain plant growth, water quality, wildlife habitat, and fire control.

WATERSHED- an area where all water running off the land drains to a specific location. Sometimes called basin.

WILDLIFE - A broad term that includes non domesticated vertebrates, especially mammals, birds, and fish.

WINDROW - A long, narrow row of vegetation, debris, and some soil created during site preparation and clearing operations.

WINDTHROW - Trees uprooted by excessive wind. Shallow-rooted trees are almost always affected.


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Kentucky Division of Water14 Reilly RoadFrankfort, KY 40601(502) 564-3410http://water.nr.state.ky.us/dow/lost.htm

Kentucky Division of Conservation663 Teton TrailFrankfort, Kentucky 40601(502) 564-3080

District Conservation OfficesButler Co. Cons. Dist., (270) 526-3784 Breckinridge, Butler, Daviess, Grayson, Hancock, Henderson, Logan (North & South), McLean, Ohio, Simpson, Warren

Green Co. Cons. Dist., (270) 932-4244 Adair, Allen, Barren, Clinton, Cumberland, Edmonson, Green, Hart, Metcalfe, Monroe, Russell

Caldwell Co. Cons. Dist., (270) 365-5533Caldwell, Christian, Crittenden, Hopkins, Lyon, Muhlenburg, Todd, Trigg, Union, Webster

McCracken Co. Cons. Dist., (270) 554-7264

Ballard, Calloway, Carlisle, Fulton, Graves, Hickman, Livingston, Marshall, McCracken

Gallatin Co. Cons. Dist., (859) 567-4441 Boone, Bracken, Campbell, Carroll, Gallatin, Grant, Kenton, Mason, Owen, Pendleton, Robertson

Rowan Co. Cons. Dist., (606) 784-5375 Boyd, Carter, Elliott, Fleming, Greenup, Johnson, Lawrence, Lewis, Martin, Menifee, Morgan, Rowan

Laurel Co. Cons. Dist., (606) 864-2180 Bell, Clay, Harlan, Jackson, Knox, Laurel, McCreary, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Wayne, Whitley

Mercer Co. Cons. Dist., (859) 734-6889 Anderson, Boyle, Casey, Garrard, Jessamine, Lincoln, Marion, Mercer, Nelson, Taylor, Washington

www.water.ky.gov

www.conservation.ky.gov


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Perry Co. Cons. Dist., (606) 436-3731Breathitt, Floyd, Knott, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Wolfe

Oldham Co. Cons. Dist., (502) 222-5123 Bullitt, Hardin, Henry, Jefferson, Larue, Meade, Oldham, Shelby, Spencer, Trimble

Kentucky Division of Forestry627 Comanche TrailFrankfort, KY 40601(502)564-4496Division Information Officer: [email protected]

District Forestry OfficesBLUEGRASS DISTRICTKentucky Division of Forestry P. O. Box 516Frankfort, Kentucky 40601 Phone (502) 573-1085 or 573-1086Fax (502) 573-1088

Counties served:Anderson, Gallatin, Oldham, Boone, Garrard, Owen, Bourbon, Grant, Pendleton, Bracken, Harrison, Scott, Campbell, Henry, Shelby, Carroll, Jessamine, Trimble, Fayette, Kenton, Woodford, Franklin and Madison

www.forestry.ky.gov


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NORTHEASTERN DISTRICT Kentucky Division of Forestry 255 Rodburn HollowMorehead, Kentucky 40351 Phone (606) 784-7504 Fax (606) 784-2686

Counties served:Bath, Fleming, Montgomery, Boyd, Greenup, Morgan, Carter, Lewis, Nicholas, Clark, Mason, Robertson Elliott, Menifee and Rowan

EASTERN DISTRICT Kentucky Division of Forestry P.O. Box 189 Betsy Layne, Kentucky 41605 Phone (606) 478-4495Fax (606) 478-4491

Counties Served:Floyd, Lawrence, Martin, Johnson, Magoffin and Pike

KENTUCKY RIVER DISTRICT Kentucky Division of Forestry P.O. Box 702 Hazard, Kentucky 41702 Phone (606) 435-6073 Fax (606) 435-6075

Counties served:Breathitt, Lee, Perry, Estill, Letcher, Powell, Knott, Owsley and Wolfe


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SOUTHEASTERN DISTRICTKentucky Division of Forestry P O Box 130 Pineville, KY 40977 Phone (606) 337-3011Fax (606)337-1630

Counties served:Bell, Clay, Harlan, Jackson, Knox, Laurel, Leslie, McCreary, Rockcastle and Whitley

SOUTH CENTRAL DISTRICTKentucky Division of Forestry 120 Gaines Drive Campbellsville, KY 42718 Phone (270) 465-5071 Fax (270) 465-3575

Counties served:Adair, Boyle, Casey, Clinton, Cumberland, Green, Lincoln, Marion, Mercer, Metcalfe, Monroe, Pulaski, Russell, Taylor, Washington and Wayne

CENTRAL DISTRICT Kentucky Division of Forestry 129 Howell Drive Elizabethtown, Kentucky 42701 Phone (270) 766-5010Fax (270) 766-5013

Counties served:Allen, Hancock, Meade, Barren, Hardin, Nelson, Breckinridge, Hart, Simpson, Bullitt, Jefferson, Spencer, Edmonson, Larue, Warren and Grayson


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GREEN RIVER DISTRICTKentucky Division of Forestry P.O. Box 465Madisonville, Kentucky 42431 Phone (270) 824-7527Fax (270) 824-7593

Counties served:Butler, Hopkins, Ohio, Christian, Logan, Todd, Daviess, McLean, Union, Henderson, Muhlenberg and Webster

WESTERN DISTRICT Kentucky Division of Forestry P O Box 349 Mayfield KY 42066 Phone: (270) 247-3913 Fax (270) 247-7593

Counties served:Ballard, Caldwell, Calloway, Carlisle, Crittenden, Fulton, Graves, Hickman, Livingston, Lyon, Marshall, McCracken and Trigg

Kentucky Consulting Foresters

Harry BullockBullock Forestry Consultants3516 Germann CourtLexington, KY 40503(859) 223-2506email: [email protected]

Pete KovalicKovalic Forest Services, Inc.487 Ecton RoadWinchester, KY 40391(859) 744-2930email: [email protected]

Tim ArnzenArnzen Forestry Services627 Myers RoadCampbellsville, KY 42718(270) 465-5672email: [email protected]

W. Cary PerkinsBluegrass Consulting Forestry3123 Bluegrass DriveShelbyville, KY 40065(502) 563-7399email: [email protected]

Wilson Forestry, LLCGavin Wilson, CF112 Magnolia StBarbourville KY [email protected]

Land Management ServicesRobert L. Smith586 Harristown RdRussell Springs KY [email protected]


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Patrick ClearyHighlands Forestry, Inc.485 Shop Branch RoadPrestonburg, KY 41653(606) 874-4888(606) 424-1247 Mobileemail: [email protected]

Dick BrantiganD & M Forestry600 Marseille Blvd.Winchester, KY 403911-888-503-0004email: [email protected]: www.dmforest.com

Christopher WillCentral Kentucky Forest Management421 West Lexington Ave.Danville, KY 40422(859) 238-2212email: [email protected] site: www.growingforests.com

Kevin TudorTudor Forestry Consulting, Inc.PO Box 552Mt. Sterling, KY 40353e-mail: [email protected](859) 585-9690 (daytime)(859) 498-4180 (evening)

Robert TindallFour Winds Forest Consultants129 Southern DrivePerryville, KY 40468(859) 583-1085e-mail: [email protected] website: www.geocities.com/kytimberman

Kentucky Consulting Foresters, con’t

Lloyd A. FoeP O Box 353LaGrange KY [email protected]

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John Luckett421 Chestnut StreetElizabethtown, KY 42071(270) 765-5771email: [email protected]

Kraig Moore1609 Harmony WayBowling Green, KY 42103(270) 781-5265 Home(270)792-4018 Cell(270) 781-8691 Faxemail: [email protected]

Les OttPO Box 1452Portsmouth, OH 456621-800-562-4964email: [email protected]

Larry Doyle103 S. 14th StreetMurray, KY 42071(270) 753-8250email: [email protected]

Dick Wengert117 Windridge DriveWinchester, KY 40391(859) 745-1779email: [email protected]

Joe DwyerDwyer Forestry ConsultingPO Box 14243Evansville, IN 47728(812) 868-1114 or Toll free 1-800-205-6970email: [email protected]: www.dwyer.8k.com

[email protected]


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tKentucky Woodland Owners Association

Traveling Kentucky highways we see farms producing prize-winning corn and soybeans. But the hills behind those fields are often covered by scrubby, non-productive forest trees. This is the result of harvest methods that take all the most valuable trees while leaving the weak ones and the non-merchantable species.

How long would a farmer be in business if he consistently sold all his best cattle and kept only the runts for breeding stock? But this is what has been going on in Kentucky woods for over 100 years!Put simply, forest landowners too often have been manipulated and exploited by interests seeking their own quick profit. Non-landowners have been making the decisions for you about your timber taxes, erosion control and wildlife protection, freedom to harvest your timber, markets for woodland products, log prices, and legal liabilities for land use. There has been no organization speaking for the landowner!

KWOA is changing that. The Kentucky Woodland Owners Association meets routinely with key leaders to discuss issues and concerns facing landowners. The meeting are crucial because: • Environmental regulations and land taxes are increasing•Timber markets are limited and dominated by a few big buyers•Few voters understand rural landowner concerns•Government assistance programs for forestry are being cut dramatically•Networks with woodland owners associations in 27 other states in order to inform landowners of important forestry issues. Since 1994, the Kentucky Woodland Owners Association has worked hard so you could •Protect your right to practice forestry•Start earning a steady income from your forest•Heal the trees in your forest for long term production•Bring your forest and wildlife back to ecological health

For membership information contact: Kentucky Woodland Owners AssociationHutton and Loyd Tree Farm1483 Big Run Road Wallingford, KY 41093606.876.3423


References

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ReferencesAerts, R. 1999. Plant-mediated Controls on Nutrient Cycling in Temperate Fens and Bogs, Ecological Society of America, Journals Online, Accessed on July 12, 2002. http://www. http://www.findarticles.com/cf_dls/m2120/7_80/57398246/p1/article.jhtml

Association of Consulting Foresters of America, http://www.acf-foresters.com

Aust, W.M. 1996. Associate Professor, Department of Forestry, Virginia Tech, Personal communication (class notes).

Austin, S. no date. Riparian Forest Handbook 1; Appreciating and Evaluating Stream Side Forests. 48p. Virginia Department of Forestry, Charlottesville, Virginia.

Barnes, Thomas, No Date. Biodiversity, Cooperative Extension Service, University of Kentucky, College of Agriculture

Brady, N.C. 1990. The Nature and Properties of Soil, Tenth Edition. Macmillan Publishing Company, New York. 621p.

The Bugwood Network and ForestryImages Image Archive and Database Systems The University of Georgia - Warnell School of Forest Resources and College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences

Christopher, E.A., Visser, J.M.R., Aust, W.M., and R.M. Shaffer, 2002. Evaluation of PostHarvest Best Management Practices for the Prevention of Soil Erosion in Virginia. Master’s thesis, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia.

Ecological Society of America, Issues in Ecology, Number 6, Spring 2000, Applying Ecological Principles to Management of the U.S. National Forests, various authors.

Environmental Status and Trends in the Southeast 2000, Southeast Natural Resource Leaders Group www.rgaatl.er.usgs.gov/srnrl.html

Hamilton, R. 1999. Forest *A* Syst A self-assessment guide for managing you forest for timber production, wildlife, recreation and aesthetics, and water quality. North Carolina State University, Department of Forestry, Raleigh, North Carolina.

Hoban, T.J., No Date. Getting to Know Your Watershed, A Guide For Watershed Partnerships. Accessed May 23, 2002. http://www.ctic.purdue.edu/KYW/Brochures/GetToKnow.html.

Hoffard, W.H., Marx D.H., and H.D. Brown, 1995. The Health of Southern Forests. USDA, Forest Service, Southern Region.

Horizon Helicopters. 1998. Helicopter Logging. Accessed November 27, 2002. http://www.hhcopters.com/logging/index.html.


References

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Ingram, M., Nabhan, G. and S. Buchman. 2002. Our Forgotten Pollinators: Protecting the Birds and Bees. Accessed on May 14, 2002. http//:www.pmac.net.birdbee.htm

Jenkins, D. 2002. Reading Your Land. Woodland Options for Landowners, Worksheet 2.1. Virginia Landowners Association.

Kentucky Association of Consulting Foresters, http://www.kacf.org

Kentucky Divison of Water, (502) 564-3410

Kentucky Division of Forestry, Phone: (502)564-4496

McGrain, Preston. The Geology of Pine Mountain, Kentucky Geological Society and University of Kentucky Press

Megalos, Mark A. and James B. Kea, North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service, http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/nreos/forest/

Michigan Department of Natural Resources. No Date. Water Quality Management Practices on Forest Land, Michigan Department of Forest Management Division, 77p.

Montana State University Extension Service, No Date. Forest Ecosystem Stewardship.

Montana State University Extension Service, No Date. Riparian Forest Wildlife, Guidelines for Landowners and Loggers.

National Association of Consulting Foresters, http://www.acf-foresters.com/

North Carolina Forest Service, 1996. BMP Checklist For Forest Harvest Operations, North Carolina Division of Forest Resources. 18p.

Novotny, V. and H. Olem. 1994. Water Quality; Prevention, Identification, and Management of Diffuse Pollution. Van Nostrand Reinhold, New York.

Plotnick, A. 2000. The Urban Tree Book, An Uncommon Field Guide for City and Town. Three River Press.

REP America. Kentucky State Page, http://www.rep.org/ky/ky_index.htm, Accessed November 20, 2002.

Rey, Joseph A., March 2002. Identifying the Boundary or Rim of a Karst Sinkhole. KY Division of Water, Groundwater Branch.

State of Kentucky’s Environment 2000-2001, The Kentucky Environmental Quality Commission

Stringer, Dr. Jeff et. al, No Date. Field Guide to Best Management Practices for Timber Harvesting in Kentucky, Cooperative Extension Service, University of Kentucky, College of Agriculture


References

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U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 2001. National Management Measures to Control Nonpoint Source Pollution from Forestry Draft, USEPA Office of Water, Nonpoint Source Pollution Control Branch.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1993. Guidance specifying management measures for sources of nonpoint source pollution in coastal waters. EPA 840-B-92-002, Washington, DC.

U.S. Forest Service, 1998. Gypsy Moth in North America. USDA, Forest Service, Northeastern Research Station, Forest Science Laboratory. Accessed May 11, 2002, http://www.fs.fed.us/ne/morgantown/4557/gmoth/

U.S. Forest Service, 2002. Stressors of Pine Forests, USDA, Forest Service, Forest Health Protection, Southern Region. http://fhpr8.srs.fs.fed.us/hosf/annosum.htm

U.S. Forest Service, 1999. Kentucky Geology and Geography. US Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Daniel Boone National Forest. Accessed May 11, 2002, http://www.r8web.com/boone/Geology.htm

U.S. Forest Service, 1999. Plant Species of the Daniel Boone National Forest. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Region. Accessed May 11, 2002, http://www.r8web.com/boone/plants.htm

University of Georgia, Office of Public Service & Outreach Institute of Ecology and Seth Wenger 1999. A Review of the Scientific Literature on Riparian Buffer Width, Extent and Vegetation.

University of Georgia, Cooperative Extension Service. No date. Georgia Forest Landowner’s Manual.

University of Kentucky, 2002. Physiographic Map of Kentucky. Accessed May 10, 2002, http://www.uky.edu/KGS/coal/webgeoky/pages/physiographic.html

Visser, J.M.R., 2002. Cable Yarding/Cable Logging. Accessed November, 27, 2002, http://www.cnr.vt.edu/visser/cable_logging/index.htm

Wealth in the Woodlands 2002, Center for Economic Options, Charleston, W.VA. (304) 345-1298 various authors

Welsch, David J., No Date. Riparian Forest Buffers - Function and Design for Protection and enhancement of water resources. Forest Resources Management, Northeastern Area State and Private Forestry USDA Forest Service Radnor, PA

W.B. Langbein and K.T. Iseri, 1995. General Introductions and Hydrologic Definitions. Manual of Hydrology: Part 1. General Surface-Water Techniques. U.S. Geological Survey. Accessed August 22, 2002. http://water.usgs.gov/wsc/glossary.html#W

Western North Carolina Alliance, www.main.nc.us/wnca Accessed February 2003

Other references as noted within the body of the publication.


Sample Contract

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Before you Harvest. . .protect your interests.

1. Seek the advice of a trusted attorney.It is important to seek the advice of the forestry profes-sionals, either at state agencies or a private consulting firm who can help you plan for a harvest. Description of the services they provide is on the following page.

It is equally important for you to seek the advice of an attorney who can prepare for you a timber sale contract. Timber sale contracts are not complicated or lengthy and no fine print is necessary. A trusted local attorney can use the sample provided on the following page to draft a contract which meets your specific needs. Take the Landowner’s Handbook with you to show the attorney exactly which management practices are to be referenced in your contract.

2. Don’t be talked out of using a contract.Too many Kentucky landowner’s have made the mistake of entering into a logging agreement on a verbal understand-ing and a firm handshake. The logger and the landowner are both well advised to have a clear written understand-ing of the terms of the logging project, including the timber harvest management practice standards to be used by the logger.

The prudent landowner will have no problem addressing both his financial and ecological concerns with the logger if a proper timber sale contract is prepared. Don’t be persuaded to enter into a verbal logging agreement. Any ethical logger understands that you have a legal right to a signed written contract to avoid misunderstandings.

If a logger is attempting to talk you out of using the timber sale contract, that is the first red flag letting you know that you may be talking with the wrong logger.

3. Who should pay for the contract?First, the timber sale contract is not an expensive legal document. By reviewing the sample on the next page, you will notice that the contract is not lengthy or complicated. Read this sample contract thoroughly before visiting your attorney. Your advance preparation will likely limit his or her time to a couple of hours. This will be a minor cost of the overall timber harvesting project. By accepting the responsibility of paying for the binding timber sale contract, you get the comfort of knowing your interests are pro-tected. The old saying, ‘’an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” is applicable here.

The cost of a simple contract is only a fraction of the cost of property damage or a dispute over timber sales proceeds.

4. Can I just use the contract in the Handbook?The contract in the handbook is only an example. You are encouraged to use the sample contract as a basis for discussion and consultation with an attorney of your choosing. The drafting of a binding contract should be done by an attorney whom you trust. The sample is not intended to be used by you without first consulting with your attorney.

The contract on the following page is a sample and is to be used as a guideline only. Consult your local attorney to add or amend this sample to meet your specific needs.

Content that is underlined or where options are listed (E.G.: a. or b. ) requires consideration for your specific circumstances.

Many thanks for Michael Campbell (Campbell, Rogers and Blair, Attorneys at Law) for drafting this sample contract.


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viti

es a

s se

t fo

rth

abo

ve.

2. O

per

ati

on

Co

ntr

ol.

Log

ger

shal

l be

resp

onsi

ble

for

the

acti

viti

es o

f th

eir

empl

oyee

s, a

gen

ts, s

ubc

ontr

acto

rs a

nd

thei

r em

ploy

ees

and

agen

ts, a

ctin

g in

th

e co

urs

e of

th

eir

empl

oym

ent

in o

pera

tion

s u

nde

r th

is c

ontr

act.

Log

ger

repr

esen

ts t

hat

a M

aste

r L

ogge

r, a

s de

fin

ed b

y K

entu

cky

law

, sh

all b

e pr

esen

t at

th

e si

te t

o ov

erse

e th

e op

erat

ion

s u

nde

r th

is c

ontr

act.

Log

ger

furt

her

rep

rese

nts

th

at a

ll v

ehic

les

and

equ

ipm

ent

use

d in

th

e op

erat

ion

are

in g

ood

safe

w

orki

ng

con

diti

on a

nd

are

insu

red

purs

uan

t to

Ken

tuck

y la

w, a

s ap

plic

able

.

3. L

iab

ilit

y f

or

Inju

ry. T

his

is a

sal

es c

ontr

act

and

not

a jo

int

ven

ture

bet

wee

n L

ando

wn

er a

nd

Log

ger.

Log

ger

assu

mes

all

liab

ilit

y fo

r in

jury

to

empl

oyee

s, a

gen

ts, s

ubc

ontr

acto

rs a

nd

thei

r em

ploy

ees

and

agen

ts, a

nd

repr

esen

ts

to L

ando

wn

er t

hat

Log

ger

is in

com

plia

nce

wit

h t

he

wor

ker’

s co

mpe

nsa

tion

law

s in

th

e C

omm

onw

ealt

h o

f K

entu

cky

duri

ng

the

cou

rse

of t

he

acti

viti

es u

nde

r th

is c

ontr

act.

Fu

rth

erm

ore,

Log

ger

shal

l in

dem

nif

y an

d h

old

har

mle

ss

Lan

dow

ner

s fr

om a

nd

agai

nst

all

cla

ims

and

dem

ands

ari

sin

g ou

t of

or

in c

onn

ecti

on w

ith

wor

k pe

rfor

med

un

der

this

con

trac

t.

4. T

ime.

Log

ger

agre

es t

o pe

rfor

m t

he

task

of

cutt

ing

and

rem

ovin

g al

l des

ign

ated

tim

ber

for

sale

on

or

befo

re

July

4th

, 200

6.

5. P

erfo

rma

nce

Bo

nd

.

a. L

ogge

r sh

all o

btai

n, a

t L

ogge

r’s

sole

cos

t, a

nd

mai

nta

in in

eff

ect

duri

ng

the

term

of

this

con

trac

t, in

clu

din

g

any

exte

nsi

ons

ther

eof,

a g

ener

al li

abil

ity

insu

ran

ce b

ond

wit

h li

mit

s of

not

less

th

an $

500,

000.

00 f

or

pe

rson

al in

jury

an

d $2

50,0

00.0

0 fo

r pr

oper

ty d

amag

e an

d sh

all p

rodu

ce t

o L

ando

wn

ers

cert

ific

ates

evi

den

cin

g th

e

exis

ten

ce o

f su

ch in

sura

nce

bon

d.O

R

b. L

ogge

r sh

all r

emit

dir

ectl

y to

Lan

dow

ner

$

in

cas

h t

o be

hel

d as

a p

erfo

rman

ce b

ond

in

ef

fect

du

rin

g th

e te

rm o

f th

is c

ontr

act,

incl

udi

ng

any

exte

nsi

ons

ther

eof.

Su

ch b

ond

shal

l be

in e

ffec

t to

rei

mbu

rse

L

ando

wn

er f

or a

ny

expe

nse

s or

loss

es a

risi

ng

from

th

e h

arve

st a

ctiv

itie

s co

ndu

cted

by

the

Log

ger,

his

em

ploy

ees,

agen

ts, s

ubc

ontr

acto

rs a

nd

thei

r em

ploy

ees

and

agen

ts.

6. A

ssig

nm

ent

an

d M

od

ific

ati

on

. Nei

ther

par

ty s

hal

l, w

ith

out

prio

r w

ritt

en c

onse

nt

of t

he

oth

er, a

ssig

n o

r ot

her

wis

e tr

ansf

er a

ny

inte

rest

in t

his

con

trac

t. N

or s

hal

l an

y am

endm

ent

or m

odif

icat

ion

of

this

con

trac

t be

ef

fect

ive

un

less

red

uce

d to

wri

tin

g an

d si

gned

by

both

par

ties

. Lan

dow

ner

’s d

elay

or

fail

ure

to

can

cel o

r te

rmin

ate

this

agr

eem

ent

upo

n t

he

occu

rren

ce o

f an

y de

fau

lt s

hal

l not

be

deem

ed a

wai

ver

or r

elea

se b

y L

ando

wn

er o

f ri

ghts

, cl

aim

s or

cau

ses

of a

ctio

n a

risi

ng

from

th

is c

ontr

act

or b

y co

mm

on o

r st

atu

tory

law

.

7. T

imb

er H

arv

est

Ma

na

gem

ent

Pra

ctic

es. L

ogge

r an

d L

ando

wn

er s

peci

fica

lly

cove

nan

t, a

ckn

owle

dge

and

agre

e th

at T

he

Ken

tuck

y F

ores

t L

ando

wn

er’s

Han

dboo

k, 2

004

edit

ion

, her

eaft

er “

Han

dboo

k”, s

hal

l con

trol

tim

ber

har

vest

m

anag

emen

t ac

tivi

ties

un

der

this

con

trac

t an

d ar

e, t

her

efor

e, o

f th

e es

sen

ce o

f th

is c

ontr

act.

Log

ger

agre

es t

o co

ndu

ct t

he

acti

viti

es u

nde

r th

is c

ontr

act

in a

man

ner

so

as t

o ta

ke a

ll r

easo

nab

le p

reca

uti

ons

to p

reve

nt

poll

uti

on o

f

Sample Contract


63A–

soil

, wat

er a

nd

air

and

to p

reve

nt

fire

s an

d fi

re h

azar

ds. U

pon

Log

ger’

s fa

ilu

re t

o co

ndu

ct t

imbe

r h

arve

st a

ctiv

itie

s in

acc

orda

nce

wit

h t

he

abov

e-re

fere

nce

d H

andb

ook

or u

pon

Log

ger’

s fa

ilu

re t

o ke

ep o

r pe

rfor

m a

ny

of t

he

cove

nan

ts

or a

gree

men

ts c

onta

ined

in t

his

con

trac

t, t

he

Log

ger

shal

l be

in d

efau

lt a

nd

the

Lan

dow

ner

s m

ay, a

t th

eir

elec

tion

, ca

nce

l th

is a

gree

men

t an

d te

rmin

ate

all r

igh

ts a

nd

priv

ileg

es o

f t

he

Log

ger

her

eun

der.

Upo

n s

uch

ter

min

atio

n,

Log

ger’

s ri

ght

to e

nte

r an

y pa

rt o

f th

e pr

oper

ty o

r to

cu

t or

rem

ove

logs

sh

all i

mm

edia

tely

cea

se a

nd

term

inat

e.

A

. Sin

kh

ole

s. A

void

har

vest

ing

nea

r si

nkh

oles

acc

ordi

ng

to p

ages

A-2

an

d A

-3 o

f th

e H

andb

ook.

Use

th

e

For

est

Con

serv

atio

n A

ct (

FC

A)/

Agr

icu

ltu

re W

ater

Qu

alit

y A

ct (

AW

QA

) an

d al

l leg

al r

equ

irem

ents

.

B. S

trea

m M

an

ag

emen

t Z

on

es. V

eget

atio

n a

nd

soil

sh

ould

rem

ain

un

dist

urb

ed in

th

e st

ream

man

agem

ent

zo

ne

to p

rote

ct s

trea

m a

nd

aqu

atic

life

fro

m s

ilt,

sed

imen

t an

d di

stu

rban

ce f

rom

har

vest

act

ivit

ies.

Use

th

e

For

est

Con

serv

atio

n A

ct (

FC

A)/

Agr

icu

ltu

re W

ater

Qu

alit

y A

ct (

AW

QA

), a

ll le

gal r

equ

irem

ents

an

d pa

ges

A

-6 t

hro

ugh

A-9

of

the

Han

dboo

k.

C. W

etla

nd

s. A

void

har

vest

ing

nea

r w

etla

nds

. Wet

lan

ds w

ill b

e fl

agge

d an

d id

enti

fied

by

Lan

dow

ner

s

and

shal

l be

off

lim

its

to a

ll f

ores

try

oper

atio

ns.

Use

th

e F

ores

t C

onse

rvat

ion

Act

(F

CA

)/A

gric

ult

ure

W

ater

Qu

alit

y A

ct (

AW

QA

), a

ll le

gal r

equ

irem

ents

an

d pa

ges

A-6

th

rou

gh A

-9 o

f th

e H

andb

ook,

pag

es A

-10

and

A-1

2 of

th

e H

andb

ook.

D

. Fo

rest

Acc

ess

Ro

ad

s. A

ll a

cces

s ro

ads,

wh

eth

er p

erm

anen

t or

tem

pora

ry, s

hal

l be

con

stru

cted

to

m

inim

ize

eros

ion

an

d m

axim

ize

safe

ty. R

efer

ence

pag

es A

-13

thro

ugh

A-1

8 of

th

e H

andb

ook

for

desi

gn a

nd

co

nst

ruct

ion

of

all a

cces

s ro

ads,

plu

s ad

her

e to

all

sta

te a

nd

fede

ral l

aws

that

app

ly.

E

. Str

eam

Cro

ssin

gs.

Avo

id c

ross

ing

stre

ams

if p

ossi

ble.

Ref

eren

ce p

ages

A-1

9 an

d A

-20

of t

he

Han

dboo

k if

st

ream

cro

ssin

g is

nec

essa

ry t

o co

ndu

ct f

ores

try

oper

atio

ns.

Als

o ad

her

e to

all

sta

te a

nd

fede

ral

la

ws

that

app

ly.

F

. Sk

id T

rail

s. S

kid

trai

l pat

tern

sh

all b

e de

sign

ed t

o m

inim

ize

envi

ron

men

tal i

mpa

ct t

o th

e pr

oper

ty.

Ref

eren

ce p

ages

A-2

1 of

th

e H

andb

ook

for

the

con

stru

ctio

n, m

ain

ten

ance

an

d re

mov

al o

f sk

id t

rail

s, p

lus

ad

her

e to

all

sta

te a

nd

fede

ral l

aws

that

app

ly.

G

. Lo

g D

eck

s a

nd

La

nd

ing

s. A

ny

log

deck

or

lan

din

g sh

all b

e co

nst

ruct

ed a

ccor

din

g to

req

uir

emen

ts o

f

FC

A/A

WQ

A a

nd

all o

ther

reg

ula

tory

req

uir

emen

ts n

oted

on

pag

e A

-22

of t

he

Han

dboo

k.

H. T

emp

ora

ry S

tab

iliz

ati

on

Mea

sure

s. U

se t

empo

rary

sta

bili

zati

on m

easu

res

as n

oted

an

d re

com

men

ded

on

pag

e A

-24

of t

he

Han

dboo

k.

I. H

arv

est

Op

era

tio

n M

easu

res.

Fol

low

all

har

vest

ope

rati

on m

easu

res

reco

mm

ende

d fo

r st

ream

man

age-

m

ent

zon

es, a

cces

s ro

ads,

str

eam

cro

ssin

gs, s

kid

trai

ls, a

nd

log

lan

din

gs s

et f

orth

in t

he

Han

dboo

k as

n

oted

on

pag

es A

-24

thro

ugh

A-2

9, p

lus

adh

ere

to a

ll s

tate

an

d fe

dera

l law

s th

at a

pply

.

J.

Po

stH

arv

est

Insp

ecti

on

. Th

e cl

oseo

ut

phas

e sh

all b

e co

ndu

cted

acc

ordi

ng

to t

he

reco

mm

enda

tion

s in

th

e

H

andb

ook

as n

oted

on

pag

es A

-31

thro

ugh

A-3

7, p

lus

adh

ere

to a

ll s

tate

an

d fe

dera

l law

s th

at a

pply

.

L

ogge

r ag

rees

th

at n

o lo

ggin

g eq

uip

men

t sh

all b

e re

mov

ed f

rom

th

e pr

oper

ty u

nti

l th

e L

ando

wn

er c

ondu

cts

an in

spec

tion

of

the

enti

re h

arve

st a

rea.

Lan

dow

ner

res

erve

s th

e ri

ght

to c

ondu

ct t

he

Pos

tHar

vest

in

spec

tion

wit

h t

he

aid

and

con

sult

atio

n o

f a

prof

essi

onal

for

este

r an

d/or

mem

bers

of

appr

opri

ate

stat

e an

d

fede

ral r

egu

lato

ry a

gen

cies

.

K. R

e-v

eget

ati

on

an

d P

esti

cid

es. N

o pe

stic

ides

sh

all b

e u

sed

by t

he

logg

er in

th

e fo

rest

ry

oper

atio

ns

un

der

this

con

trac

t. R

e-ve

geta

tion

sh

all c

onfo

rm t

o th

e re

com

men

dati

ons

in t

he

han

dboo

k as

n

oted

on

pag

e A

-38,

plu

s ad

her

e to

all

sta

te a

nd

fede

ral l

aws

that

app

ly.

8. T

imb

er B

ou

nd

ary

. Lan

dow

ner

has

des

ign

ated

th

e ti

mbe

r bo

un

dary

wit

hin

wh

ich

th

e ti

mbe

r h

arve

st s

hal

l tak

e pl

ace.

No

tree

s ot

her

th

an t

hos

e m

arke

d w

ith

in t

he

desi

gnat

ed t

imbe

r bo

un

dary

sh

all b

e cu

t or

rem

oved

, wit

h t

he

exce

ptio

n o

f th

ose

tree

s w

hic

h m

ust

be

rem

oved

to

con

stru

ct s

kid

trai

ls a

nd

acce

ss r

oads

. Th

e ti

mbe

r bo

un

dary

is

mar

ked

and

desi

gnat

ed b

y th

ree

brig

ht

oran

ge s

trip

es p

ain

ted

on t

he

bou

nda

ry t

rees

. Tre

es d

esig

nat

ed f

or c

utt

ing,

re

mov

al, a

nd

sale

are

mar

ked

wit

h t

hre

e bl

ue

stri

pes

pain

ted

at a

ppro

xim

atel

y ey

e le

vel.

Log

ger

shal

l com

pen

sate

la

ndo

wn

er t

hre

e ti

mes

th

e m

arke

t ra

te f

or a

ny

tree

s cu

t or

rem

oved

th

at a

re n

ot m

arke

d as

sta

ted

abov

e.

Att

ach

ed h

eret

o is

a c

opy

of L

ando

wn

er’s

dee

d w

ith

a d

escr

ipti

on o

f th

e pr

oper

ty u

pon

wh

ich

th

e ti

mbe

r bo

un

dary

is

loca

ted.

(co

nti

nu

ed

)

Sample Contract


Eac

h p

arty

her

eto

ackn

owle

dges

th

at t

hey

pos

sess

or

hav

e ac

cess

to

a co

py o

f T

he

Ken

tuck

y F

ores

t L

ando

wn

er’s

Han

dboo

k.

Wit

nes

s ou

r h

and

this

4th

day

of

July

, 200

5.

L

ando

wn

ers:

Log

ger:

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

__

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

_

64A– Sample Contract


The Kentucky Forest Landowner’s Handbook was published by the Mountain Association for Com-munity Economic Development (MACED). Sara Thilman (Flying High Design & Communications) and Ed Christopher, Jr. provided design and content contributions. It would not have been possible without the contributions and support of our volunteer guidance group: Margi Jones, Morgan Jones, Barry Tonning (Tetra Tech) and Michael Campbell (Campbell, Rogers & Blair Law Firm) the Appalachian Forest Resource Center, the Kellogg Foundation, members of the Central Appalachian Network, the Kentucky Division of Water (KDOW), the Kentucky Division of Forestry, the Kentucky State Nature Preserves Commission, Tim Hensley, Jack Stickney, Peter Woyar, CF® and the numerous reviewers and content contributors.

Funding for this project, The Kentucky Forest Landowners Handbook, was provided in part by a grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) through the Kentucky Division of Water, Nonpoint Source Section, to MACED as authorized by the Clean Water Act Amendments of 1987, §319(h) Nonpoint Source Implementation Grant # C-9994861-98. The mention of trade names or commercial products does not constitute endorsement. Initial work on this manual was conducted as a project of the Appalachian Forest Resource Center (www.appalachianforest.org), a regional branch of the National Community Forestry Center.

Additional funding support provided by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation and the Cooperative State Research, Education and Extension Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, under Agreement No. 9936200-8704. Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the USEPA, the U.S. Department of Agriculture or KDOW.

The Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet (EPPC) and the Mountain Association for Com-munity Economic Development (MACED) do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion or disability. The NREPC and MACED will provide, on request, reasonable accommodations including auxiliary aids and services necessary to afford an individual with a dis-ability an equal opportunity to participate in all services, programs and activities. To request materi-als in an alternative format, contact the Public Information and Education Branch, 4th Floor, Capital Plaza Tower, Frankfort, KY, 40601 or call (502) 564-5525. Hearing- and speech-impaired persons can contact the agency by using the Kentucky Relay Service, a toll-free telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD). For voice to TDD, call 800-648-6057. For TDD to voice, call 800-648-6056.

This document was printed on recycled paper with soy inks.

For additional copies of this publication, please contact MACED at 859-986-2373 or by email: [email protected].

The Handbook was developed specifically for those landowners who want to manage their forest and its precious resources with a focus on the long term. On behalf of future generations—thank you! Hopefully, this publication will help you and your family to manage your forest to meet your needs and your desires for many years to come. Whether you own 10 or 2,000 acres, you should feel great pride in knowing that your forest helps to clean the air, filter the water and provide food and shelter to literally thousands of plants and animals.

To order additional handbooks, contact MACED

at 859-986-2373, [email protected]

or the Division of Water502-564-3410.

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