Invasive Tree Removal and Thinning


Site: Oak pine mature sawtimber


A oak pine mature sawtimber before a invasive tree removal and thinning harvest.
A oak pine mature sawtimber before a invasive tree removal and thinning harvest.

Woodland Owners’ View

These woods are way too thick for overall health, and there’s an invasive species that’s taking over—Norway maple! They need to be cut so the pines and oaks have room to grow.

Logger’s View

This will be good wood to cut from an economic point of view—it’s mostly large diameter, tall, and a lot of sawlog quality—even the Norway maple logs can be sold for more money than pulpwood! Also, the short yarding distance is a plus. On the other hand, the high visibility and aesthetic importance to the landowner means some extra care will be needed to handle brush and limbs, and maybe even grind some stumps. Having a chipper for this job is a must.

Forester’s View

The stand is overstocked, which reduces growth on valuable sawlog oak and pine. Norway maple is taking growing space from desirable native trees. A sanitation and thinning cut will remove the invasive species and release crowns of the most desirable trees on two or three sides.

A oak pine mature sawtimber after a invasive tree removal and thinning harvest.
A oak pine mature sawtimber after a invasive tree removal and thinning harvest.

Woodland Owners’ View

Very pleased with the care taken by the logging crews. There are a lot of good sawlogs left in this stand. Need to keep an eye out for any new invasive plants and insects.

Forester’s View

Optimum stocking of high value sawlogs trees; the growth and value of this stand will increase relatively quickly. Need to keep an eye for insects, disease and windthrow, and be ready to salvage if significant damage occurs. There is also a good chance that Norway maple and other invasive plants will again try to take over the stand; vigilance is recommended.

Wildlife Outcome

Wood thrush and other songbirds like the high, mostly closed canopy.

Equipment Used

Tracked feller buncher, grapple skidder, loader/slasher, and commercial chipper.


Location:

Evergreen Cemetery Woodlands, Portland
Jeff Tarling, City Arborist
207-808-5446; jst@portlandmaine.org