Forestry has been conducting a "Biomass Fuel Operations". Basically, it is a mechanical fuel load reduction that is used when an area has become too thick to safely burn. The "nonmerchantable" trees are chosen for thinning and the thick underbrush is removed to provide a more open story compatible with a longleaf forest. Forestry is looking at some other areas that may also be mechanically thinned as opposed to burning in future operations.
The removed product is then chipped and sold to plants such as paper mills for green energy. While the thinning does generate some revenue for forestry, the main value, according to forestry, is the ability to more easily manage and maintain a healthy forest for habitat and public use.
There are also some controlled burns taking place in the State Park lands as well as the forest when weather conditions permit.
Anita Page
SWCC Executive Director
The removed product is then chipped and sold to plants such as paper mills for green energy. While the thinning does generate some revenue for forestry, the main value, according to forestry, is the ability to more easily manage and maintain a healthy forest for habitat and public use.
There are also some controlled burns taking place in the State Park lands as well as the forest when weather conditions permit.
Anita Page
SWCC Executive Director
