Fall 2024 21 In a series that highlights diminished species and the efforts around recovering and sustaining specific tree species, we can also take a broader view of other, closely related natural resources which could diminish in value without considerable efforts. As foresters we can undertake the planning and work to minimize diminution, or even reverse that effect. Everyone needs clean water. Water quality is an area of concern for any harvest that involves a water element on or near the harvest site. Best Management Practices for forestry recommend a minimum 50 ft. buffer, with restricted cutting along perennial and intermittent streams. However, a no-cut buffer and making use of the Riparian Tax Credit are additional ways to provide more protection to the streams while still capturing value from the trees not harvested from the buffer. Another option for those who don’t qualify for the tax credit is to allow harvest within the buffer but not within 25 ft. of the stream bank. Soil quality after a harvest is important to consider whether you are performing a clear cut, select cut, or a thinning. Planning the location of decks and any temporary roads can help to maintain soil quality by reducing erosion. Soil compaction can be minimized by spreading out the skid trails and not repeatedly using the same path. It is also important to take weather forecasts into consideration during the harvest. There are times when staging wood near the decks prior to a major storm should be considered to avoid long skids while the ground is saturated. Finally, have the slash taken from the deck back into the cutover area. Whether it is returned to soft spots to help support the weight of the equipment or scattered throughout the cutover, it will help improve the soils through nutrient return. Many people seek timberland for recreational purposes, and hunting is one option. By choosing to leave small brush piles of the non-merchantable trees along the edges of the streamside management zone (SMZ) buffers, you can provide a better habitat for small wildlife while also helping water quality. These same buffers provide excellent travel corridors and clean water for all types of wildlife. Finally, leaving oaks in the buffers helps provide a food source for wildlife. As consulting foresters, we play an important role in helping landowners to keep timberland from being diminished and enhancing the benefits it provides. —The Executive Committee of the Virginia Chapter ACF VIRGINIA CHAPTER Association of Consulting Foresters Minimize Diminution Blue painted tree marking edge of Streamside Management Zone (SMZ). Marked prior to harvesting so landowner and logger can clearly see limits of SMZ. (PHOTO BY DAVID STEPHENS, BUGWOOD.ORG)
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