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Tornado timber salvage
News Release Published: June 10, 2008 by the South Central Region
Contact(s): Ray Amiel, Fitchburg (608) 588-0020
Jim Bernett, Poynette (608) 635-8113
POYNETTE – The June 7th tornado in Columbia County left many landowners with major damage to their woodlands. It is estimated that as much as 800 acres of forestland have been impacted by this storm. The storm damaged approximately 180 acres of woodlands in the Pete Helland Wildlife area and nearly 800 acres of private woodlands in the tornados path throughout Columbia County.
In light of the recent tornado damage, the Department of Natural Resources’ foresters encourage affected landowners to contact Jim Bernett (608-635-8113), DNR Forester for Columbia County or a private consulting forester to ensure that woodlands are properly managed, along with making certain they receive a fair return on their damaged timber.
Most landowners will benefit from the assistance of a qualified forester in determining cutting specifications and marketing of their wood. Consultant foresters are available to assist in all aspects of the salvage and beyond, including marketing, contracts and sale administration.
“If your woodlot has storm damage, you may want to have a forester examine it to assist in the potential marketing of the damaged areas” noted Ray Amiel, Acting Regional Forester in Fitchburg. “Besides the Department Foresters, there are a number of private consulting foresters working in and around Columbia County” continues Mr. Amiel. “The local DNR forestry office has a list of these private foresters available upon request.”
Landowners should begin the salvaging process immediately, according to Mr. Amiel, though the timber will generally remain marketable over the next year.
The saw timber will deteriorate faster than pulpwood due to staining that may reduce log quality. The salvage or harvesting of blown down timber will also reduce insect problems, encourage forest regeneration and lessen fuel loads for wildfire potential, noted the forester.
“Remember that counties require you to file a cutting notice prior to any harvesting. If your land is enrolled in the Managed Forest law, you must also file a cutting notice with the DNR forester and have their approval prior to any cutting,” he pointed out.
Mr. Amiel further cautioned that landowners “beware of the dishonest timber buyers and loggers” who will approach “you about cleaning-up the mess.” In many case, the damaged timber has value. A professional forester can assist you in making the right decision on the marketing of your damaged trees. Marketing the storm damaged timber to a reputable logging firm is the first step in the harvesting process.
“Certain individuals take advantage of natural disasters for their own personal gain with little concern for the property owner or the forest resource. Always be aware of the value and trees you are selling and always have a written contract.”
“If you aren’t sure about an offer, contact your local DNR forester for a second opinion. It’s our goal to have well-informed landowners and then it will be up to you to decide what’s best for your land,” he added.
