INTRODUCTION
This document was prepared with the ‘new’ landowner in mind, to educate and inform an individual about the tremendous potential and proper management of our timber resources. It is intended to be a basic introduction to forestry practices, as well as provide sources of assistance to woodland owners.
The Woodland Resource Guide was updated by the Forestry Committee of Top of the Ozarks Resource, Conservation and Development Inc., under the direction of Richard Stricklin, chair; Gary Oakley and Jennifer Rice of the Missouri Department of Conservation; Doyle Henken of the U.S. Forest Service; Max Schmollinger and Bill Yoder, Private Consulting Foresters; and Norman Klopfenstein of the Natural Resources Conservation Service provided invaluable assistance and support. The project could not have been completed without each person. Thank You.
Thanks are also due to the EQIP Educational grant program, which provided funding for printing. EQIP agency partners included: USDA-Natural Resource Conservation Service; USDA-Farm Services Agency; Missouri Department of Natural Resources; Missouri Department of Conservation; and the University of Missouri Outreach and Extension.
1. Sources of Forest Management Assistance 1
2. Forest Management
a. Planning 7
b. Selling Timber 9
c. Best Management Practices 11
d. Timber Stand Improvement 12
e. Woodland Protection 14
f. Planting Tree Seedlings & Other Wildland Plants 16
g. Tax Tips, No Trespassing and Fences 19
3. Wildlife Management 20
4. Yard Tree and Urban Tree Management
a. Pruning 22
b. Why not to “Top” 22
c. Tree Protection 23
d. Fire Safe 23
5. Glossary 26
State and federal conservation agencies, private consulting foresters, and organizations offer various types of forest management assistance to owners of private forestland.
USDA, Farm Service Agency
555 Vandiver Drive
Columbia, MO 65202
The Farm Service Agency (FSA) is an organization of the U.S. Department of Agriculture and has offices in each county. FSA offers a cost-share program that shares a percentage of the cost of tree planting and timber stand improvement with private landowners. Contact the FSA office to request cost-share assistance for forestry projects. FSA offices are usually located in the county seat and are listed in the telephone directory under “U.S. Government”.
Missouri Christmas Tree
Producers Association
2146 County Road 330
573-243-5501
The Missouri Christmas Tree Producers Association is a nonprofit organization of Christmas tree growers and technical persons dedicated to promoting the interests of the Christmas tree growing industry in Missouri.
Objectives include advancing the production of high-quality Christmas trees, promoting research related to Christmas tree production, keeping members informed about current research findings, conducting educational meetings and tours of successful Christmas tree plantations, sharing information and experiences among members, and encouraging the use of natural Christmas trees.
Members receive the Midwest Magazine “Christmas Trees” and may join the National Christmas Tree Association.
Missouri Consulting
Foresters’ Association
2231 Bluff Blvd
Columbia, MO 65201
Private consulting foresters furnish a variety of forest management activities on a fee basis. Services include woodland management plans, timber appraisals, forest and shade tree damage appraisals, timber marking, reforestation, timber stand improvement, marketing and sales supervision, surveying, mapping, and other services at a more intensive level and can usually spend more time with you than can public foresters.
You can get a listing of the consulting foresters in the state from the state forester, the extension forester, or the Missouri Consulting Foresters’ Association.
Missouri Department of Conservation
P.O. Box 180
Jefferson City, MO 65102
Usually, a resource forester has technical responsibility for more than one county. To locate the forester or biologist serving your county, contact the local conservation agent, FSA or NRCS office.
Missouri Forest Products Association
611 E. Capitol, Suite 1
Jefferson City,
MO 65101
Phone:
573/634-3252
Fax: 573/636-2591
The association was formed to be a representative of forest owners and the forest industry. Its initial objectives are:
1. Promote closer working relationships among forest products, firms and producers.
2. Enable unified action to improve procurement, processing, research and marketing or forest products.
3. Promote education of new techniques and methods.
4. Promote conservation and wise use of natural resources.
611 E. Capitol Ave., Ste. 1
Jefferson City, MO 65102
573-634-3252
http://www.moforest.org/treefarmsystem/index.htm
The American Tree Farm System was started by wood-using industries in 1941. It is intended to stimulate interest among woodland owners in doing a better job managing their forests. A tree farm is an area of privately owned forestland dedicated by its owner to the growing and harvesting of repeated forest crops. Tree Farms may range in size from a 10-acres wood lot to a vast industrial forest. Tree Farm standards are high, but any woodland owner can begin wise management practices which, in a few years, can bring his property up to a point where it will qualify as a certified Tree Farm. For complete information on the Tree Farm System, contact the Missouri Tree Farm Committee or the Missouri Department of Conservation resource forester serving your county.
Natural Resources Conservation Service
555 Vandiver Drive
Columbia, MO 65102
The Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) is an agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. NRCS provides assistance to private woodland owners. This assistance consists of encouraging and assisting the landowner to develop a long-range woodland management plan. This plan is based on the owner’s goals and soil capabilities. NRCS offices are located in nearly all Missouri counties and are listed in the telephone directory under “U.S. Government”.
SOIL AND WATER
CONSERVATION DISTRICTS
Cost-share funding is available through your local Soil and Water Conservation Districts to exclude livestock from woodlands. The practice reimburses the landowner part of the cost of erecting a fence to prevent livestock from having woodland access. Information on fence specifications and cost-share details are available from Soil and Water Conservation District offices.
UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI-COLUMBIA
EXTENSION DIVISION
309 UNIVERSITY HALL
COLUMBIA, MO 65211
The University of Missouri-Columbia Extension Division maintains offices in all counties. Each Extension Center office has numerous guide sheets of forest management and wood use. The publications are available to Missouri residents by ordering in person, by phone, on-line or mail from any county office, or directly from: Extension Publications, 206 Whitten Hall, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, MO 65201. Extension service offices are listed in the telephone directory under the name of your county. Example: Ozark County Of - Extension Office.
THE U.S. FOREST SERVICE
MARK TWAIN NAT’L. FOREST
ROLLA, MO 65401
573-364-4621
The role of the Forest Service on a broad scale is three phased: 1) to conduct research, through its experiment stations, of effective scientific forest management practices, 2) to provide financial and technical assistance for the management of private forestlands through the programs of the state forester and his personnel such as resource foresters and 3) to apply scientific forest management practices on National forestland to assure proper management of the public’s renewable resources. The application of forest management practices on National forestland provides an opportunity for interested landowners to review results that can be expected from various timber management practices.
5602 WEST RAYMOND STREET
SUITE 0
INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46241
The Walnut Council is the industry trade association created to serve black walnut growers and the companies that use walnut to make products. Black walnut Juglans nigra L. is recognized as the most valuable and most beautiful of American hardwoods. The goal of the Walnut Council is to increase the production of the highest quality black walnut and by-products for the greatest mutual benefit.
The Walnut Council’s main objectives are:
1. To advance the best cultural practices and the science and technology of black walnut.
2. To encourage new and improved black walnut plantings.
3. To advance good management of existing walnut trees.
4. To advance the use of all walnut products.
5. To sponsor joint meetings of all groups interested in black walnut.
6. To promote exchange of information and research data among all interested groups.
7. To assist foresters in keeping current with the latest walnut cultural information.
As a member of the National Walnut Council, you automatically become a member of the Missouri Chapter of the Walnut Council.
Missouri Department of Natural Resources
Division of Geology and Land Survey
P.O. Box 250
Rolla, MO 65401
573-364-1752
The Division of Geology and Land Survey maintains a complete inventory of 7 ½ and 15-minute series of topographic maps throughout the state of Missouri. Also available are unpublished copies of orthophoto quads.
Missouri Walnut Council
University of Missouri
Center for Agroforestry
203 ABNR
Columbia, MO 65211
573-884-2874
Missouri Landscape and Nursery Association
1210 Frederick Ave.
St. Joseph, MO 64501
816-233-1481
Missouri Nut Growers Association
Rt. 3, Box 196
Butler, MO 64730
660-925-3253
Missouri Forestkeepers Network
Forest Releaf of Missouri,
407 Lindell Blvd, Suite 120
Saint Louis, MO 63108
www.conservation.state.mo.us/forest/health/hlthtree/or
The Missouri Forestkeepers Network is a volunteer statewide forestry project and is an opportunity for all Missourians – urban and rural – to get involved in understanding and gaining important information about the condition of trees and forests. By joining the network, you play an essential role in the future of Missouri’s trees and forests. Forestkeepers is free to any interested citizen, family or group. An application form and further information is available at their website or the above address.
Operation Forest Arson and Operation Game Thief
1-800-392-1111
The Conservation Federation of Missouri in cooperation with the Missouri Department of Conservation and Mark Twain National Forest maintains a hotline at 1-800-392-1111 at which incidents of forest arson or wildlife code violations can be reported anonymously. Rewards are offered for tips that result in the arrest and conviction of forest arsonists or wildlife code violations.
FORESTRY WEBSITES
University of Missouri College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources
University of Missouri School of Natural Resources
University of Missouri Department of Forestry
www.snr.missouri.edu/forestry/
Agroforestry
Green Horizons
www.agebb.missouri.edu/agforest
Forestry Extension publications
www.muextension.missouri.edu/xplor/agguides/forestry
Missouri Timber Price Trends
www.agebb.missouri.edu/weather/
University Outreach and Extension
Center for Agriculture, Resource and Environmental Systems (CARES)
Office of Social and Economic Data Analysis
Missouri Watershed Information Network
www.outreach.missouri.edu/mowin
Missouri Forestkeepers Network
Missouri Botanical Garden
Missouri Office of the Nature Conservancy
www.tnc.org/infield/state/missouri
American Tree Farm System
Missouri Tree Farm Stewardship
www.snr.missouri.edu/treefarm/
About.com – Forestry
www.forestry.about.com/education/forestry
Private Forest Management Team
Natural Resource Conservation Service
Missouri Office of the NRCS
USDA Forest Service – Central Hardwood Notes
Missouri Department of Conservation
Specialty Forest Products
Home Fireproofing
www.sfrc.ufl.edu/extension/firehome.htm
FOREST MANAGEMENT
Forest management consists of four steps: 1) Determination of management goals and objectives; 2) Inventory of the existing resource; 3) Preparation of a management plan aimed at meeting the desired goals and objectives; and 4) Implementation of management practices outlined in the plan.
Determination of Management Goals and Objectives: The first and perhaps the most important management activity is the establishment of a set of goals and objectives for the forest. Just what is it you would like your woods to provide? Among the desired objectives might be such things as the production of income through the sustainable harvest of various forest products, wildlife habitat improvement, recreation, nature study, aesthetics or the restoration of an unique natural community. The more specific objectives are defined the more specific the planning and timing of management activities can be. For example, the objective of, “to improve outdoor recreational opportunities”, will be more useful in planning management activities if stated in terms of what recreational opportunities are desired. The benefit of careful planning and good forest management is that a range of objectives can be successfully met.
Inventory of the Existing Resource: It is futile to attempt management of anything without knowledge of what you have to work with and the same is true in forest management. A forest “inventory” consists of gathering information on soils, topography, species, size and condition of trees present, the location of any forest openings and the vegetation present in them, the location of trails, ponds, streams and other natural or manmade features. In most cases the forest can be divided into “stands” or groupings of trees based on similar characteristics such as tree size, species combinations, topographic position and direction. In addition to field notes on observations and measurements taken, this information should be recorded on a map. Aerial photographs available from the U.S. Department of Agriculture - Farm Services Agency are very useful for such mapping. Topographic maps available from the U.S. Geological Survey can also be very useful for inventory work. Lacking these, a hand-drawn map serves well. If it has not been done previously, physically mark the boundaries of the property. Also, where possible, it can be quite helpful to gather information concerning the past management of the forest.
Enlisting the assistance of a forester or biologist in conducting the inventory can help assess the overall condition of the forest stands as well as assist with the understanding of the influence of such things as soils, aspect (direction of slope) and past management activities upon current stand condition and composition. They can also help determine where and what management activities might be applied to meet certain objectives and perhaps assist with the “fine tuning” of some objectives.
Preparation of a Management Plan: Based upon the objectives and the results of the inventory a plan of action should be prepared. This plan should not only include specific activities to be conducted in identified stands but also, a schedule of priority for the accomplishment of these activities. Among the factors to include in this scheduling, in addition to objective priorities, are the time and financial resources available for their accomplishment. The United States Department of Agriculture - Farm Services Agency and Missouri Department of Conservation frequently have cost-share funds available to assist with qualifying forest and/or wildlife management practices.
Again, it may be helpful to seek the assistance of a forester or biologist in preparing the management plan and to provide “how-to-information” for specific management practices. The management activities of timber stand improvement and selling timber are discussed in this brochure. The existence (or absence) of a written management plan that includes management objectives can have implications on how expenses and income in conjunction with forest management activities are treated by the Internal Revenue Service. For example, while the generation of income from the woodlands may not be among the top priorities, having that possibility stated among the management objectives can affect how such income (even if incidental to the accomplishment of a higher priority objective) is treated on the income tax return. A forester or tax accountant should be consulted for details concerning tax implications of woodland ownership. In addition, a number of sources can be found online providing basic tax information for woodland owners. Among these is The United States Forest Service site www.fs.fed.us/spf/coop/ at which Agriculture Handbook No. 708 “Forest Owner’s Guide to the Federal Income Tax” and other tax information for woodland owners can be found.
Implementation of Management Practices: While, specific management practices such as timber stand improvement, tree planting, wildlife food plot or water hole establishment, timber harvest, trail construction, etc., undertaken will vary with the situation and individual objectives, meticulous records should be maintained of such activities that include stand(s) treated, what was done and time and expense involved. This will not only provide a record over time of the effectiveness of various management practices and facilitate planning future activities and the updating of the management plan, but also, again can affect tax treatment of management expenses and income.
Selling Timber
Types of Sale
There are two general types of timber sale---“lump-sum” and “price by the board-foot.” The “lump-sum” is the price for the entire number of trees for sale. It is the least trouble to the seller, because he does not have to check any measuring, but simply takes the amount offered. However, unless the trees for sale have been marked, the buyer can take any trees he wants and the woodland may not receive maximum management benefits. “Price by the board-foot” is how much the buyer will pay for the lumber in the trees he harvests.
Tree and Log Scales
Three different measuring scales are used in Missouri to estimate the number of board feet in a tree or log. “Tree scales” are used to estimate the number of board –feet which will be sawed from a standing tree of a given diameter and merchantable length.
“Log scales” are used to estimate the number of board-feet to be produced from logs which result after the tree has been felled and cut into logs.
Tree rules are used to estimate the number of board feet in a standing tree and log rules are used to estimate the number of board feet in the logs after the tree has been cut and converted into logs. Over fifty tree and log rules, only a few of which are in common use today, have been devised and put into use throughout the United States and Canada since the first rule was published in 1825. The large number of rules and the differences in board feet that might be obtained by using different rules in measuring the same tree or log are a result of the rules being based on variations in utilization standards, slab allowances, tree taper, lumber shrinkage, sawkerf and methods of construction. In Missouri the most commonly used rules are the Doyle Rule and the International ¼-inch Rule. A third rule, the Scribner decimal C Rule, is sometimes used, but not commonly in the Ozarks region of Missouri.
The Doyle Rule is one of the oldest tree rules (1870) and when compared to the International ¼-inch Rule under scales of trees below the 26 inch diameter at breast (dbh) class and over scales trees above the 26 inch dbh class. In Missouri, for the reasons mentioned above, the Doyle Rule is the most commonly used rule for measuring black walnut trees, while the International ¼-inch Rule is considered the most accurate for other hardwoods and pine in the size classes commonly encountered.
Relatively recently some Missouri mills have converted to buying logs by weight. This is a trend that is expected to grow and timber sellers will have to closely monitor the conversion ratio between log weight and log rule.
The Bid Notice
Timber should be sold by bid regardless of the system used.
A bid notice should be sent to as many prospective buyers as possible. The bid notice should include:
1. Seller’s name, address and telephone number.
2. Location of the trees (legal description and directions from nearest town).
3. Number of trees to be sold and how they are marked.
4. Any special sale instructions such as road location or clean-up requirements.
5. Latest date bids will be accepted. The bid notice should state a definite date, time and place when bids will be opened and accepted. The seller should reserve the right to accept or reject any or all bids.
The Timber Sale Contract
All sales of timber should be covered by a timber sale contract. If all terms are set down on paper it helps prevent misunderstandings.
There are certain basic things that should be included in a contract.
1. Names and addresses of buyers and sellers.
2. An accurate legal description of the location of the timber.
3. How trees are marked.
4. The amount of the purchase price and when it is to be paid.
5. Expiration date of the contract.
6. Other responsibilities of the buyer such as: preventing fire; preventing excessive damage to young timber; and leaving roads, field, and fences in good repair.
7. Other responsibilities of the seller such as: guaranteeing the buyer he has the right-of-way and entry into the land for the purpose of harvesting trees.
Two copies of the contract should be dated and signed by both the buyer and the seller with a copy going to each. It is a good idea to have a third party sign as a witness.
Checking the Sale
The seller should check the sale for violations of contract provisions. This should be done several times while the sale is in progress.
After the job is completed to the seller’s satisfaction the following items should be checked:
1. No unmarked trees were cut.
2. Fences, roads and culverts are restored to a condition equivalent to their condition prior to the sale.
3. There is no excessive or abnormal damage to the sale area.
4. Full payment has been received.
Products Cedar Pine White Oak Post Oak Red Oak Hickory Walnut
Chips X X X X X
Posts X X X X X X
Timbers X X X X
Railroad Ties X X X X
Pallets X X X X X
Lumber X X X X X X X
Flooring limited X X X limited
Grade Lumber X X X X X
Veneer X X X X
Stave Bolts X limited
Handles X
Novelties X X
Nuts X X
Closet Lining X
Gun Stocks X
Best Management Practices
In Missouri forests, most water quality changes associated with forest management practices are from the access roads and skidding trails. Soil losses and sediment due to silvicultural activities generally occur when the protective litter layer is disturbed. Water from undisturbed forests is high quality because the canopy and litter layer protect the soil surface and enhance soil biological activity. With the litter intact, water soaks into the porous soil and rarely runs over the surface.
Without this protective layer, however, raindrops detach soil particles and start eroding, transporting and depositing sediments. Dislodged soil particles wash into soil pores, decrease soil porosity and overland flow starts. Soil porosity also is reduced by compaction from heavy equipment, especially when soils are wet.
Streamside zones are the area adjacent to perennial and intermittent streams, caves, springs, and lakes. They are important in maintaining stable stream banks, and trapping sediments and pollutants before they enter the water. Streamside forests slow flood waters and provide shade to streams, moderating water temperatures. The deep moist soils provide sites that have the potential to grow individual high-quality trees. Streamside zones need special protection during management operations to maintain water quality.
Because an increase of sediment is common at stream crossings, road building and vehicle travel across streams should be avoided whenever possible. In most cases, advance road planning will reduce or eliminate the number of stream crossings necessary.
For most harvesting operations in Missouri, the construction of special logging roads is not required. Usually the main haul road is a county road. Nearly 90 percent of the erosion from timber harvest comes from the road system, strategically placed water bars can reduce this significantly. Soil loss from road construction and use is similar to losses from tilled crop fields.
Missouri timber harvests typically involve small acreages and do not require extensive road construction for access. Vegetation responds rapidly after a harvest to stabilize exposed soil. Studies of managed forests show that soil erosion occurs at about the same rate as natural occurring geologic erosion. Timber harvesting activities pose little threat to water quality when care is taken to prevent erosion.
Timber Stand Improvement for Woodland Owners
Why TSI?
In the past, much of Missouri’s woodlands were overcut, burned, grazed and generally mismanaged. These practices resulted in stands of undesirable trees—crooked, diseased or otherwise unmarketable. These trees hamper the growth of the straight, healthy trees that will produce quality lumber and veneer.
The purpose of timber stand improvement (TSI) is to free desirable trees from competition, thin the trees to desirable numbers and remove the poorer trees. This improves the overall condition of the stand, and the wood growth is concentrated on a number of selected trees.
Timber is like any other agricultural crop - it needs care during its lifetime to produce a high-quality product and to give the landowner the highest financial return. When a stand of trees is very young, there may be 4,000 or 5,000 seedlings growing on a single acre. This same stand will have fewer than 100 trees remaining when it is mature and ready to harvest. Nature will thin out the surplus trees, but this unaided natural process may take the stand 150 to 200 years to reach marketable size. Periodic thinning can improve tree quality and reduce the time span to less than 100 years.
Care should be take not to cut trees for fire wood that will produce quality saw logs. The two main factors that limit tree growth in Missouri are sunlight and moisture. Competition among trees for sunlight in the crowns is readily visible and uncomplicated. Corresponding competition for moisture
and growing space in the soil is much more complex and difficult to observe.
The easiest way to get started is to walk through the woods and observe the form, condition and size of the different trees. The trees of the stand can be placed in three categories.
The first and most important group are the trees which will be the final crop. These should be of desirable species and have tall, straight, clear trunks free from insect or disease damage, fire scars, decay or mechanical damage. The crop tree should have a full, healthy crown with no large dead branches. The crowns should be at the general level of the crown cover or extend above it and receive full sunlight.
The second group comprises those trees which will be removed in future firewood thinning but which will be needed in the meantime to utilize growing space. It is important to maintain the proper number of trees on a given acre in order to fully utilize the growing space. If there are too many trees, they will be crowded and cannot realize their full growth potential. On the other hand, if all but the crop trees are removed in one thinning, the land is not producing all the wood of which it is capable. The quality of the remaining trees will also decline due to less height growth, persistent lower limbs and wind damage.
The final category comprises the surplus trees that are to be removed in the first thinning. Trees that are the least desirable in the stand because of species or form, should be cut for firewood as soon as possible. The characteristics which make the trees in the second and third categories undesirable as crop trees are:
· Undesirable species
· Multiple sprouts from one stump
· Low-forked or crooked
· Swellings or bumps on the trunk which indicate internal damage
· Fire scars or other damage to the trunk; or
· Cull trees or wide-spreading trees with excessive limbs
Spacing between the crowns probably is the easiest and most obvious way to determine the competition for growing space. One general rule-of-thumb for spacing is to leave 5 to 8 feet of open space on at least two sides of the crown of the remaining trees.
If the stand is relatively uniform in diameter, the “diameter-times-two” rule can be used. With this method, the average diameter in inches is multiplied by two; this is the number of feet to leave between the stems of the remaining trees.
Since trees do not grow in even spacing, it is impossible to adhere strictly to either of these rules. Two good trees may be left with their crowns touching. If they have open space on two other sides, they will have enough growing room. In some crowded stands, it may be necessary to remove the defective trees plus some good trees in order to maintain proper spacing.
The two spacing rules thin the tree crowns in the main canopy rather than the understory. The understory trees are already deprived of sunlight and removing them will not have much effect on the main stand.
Wood can be used as an energy source to provide some relief from the high costs of other fuels. A great majority of the firewood in Missouri comes from private land. Cutting trees for firewood gives us an opportunity to help correct some of the past mistakes in forest use.
A good first step in getting a wood lot in shape is cutting the undesirable trees for fuel.
Woodland Protection
The forests we now manage have a history of damage from many forces. Major and minor natural disasters such as fire, weather, insects, diseases, and wildlife are constantly destroying single trees or small groups of trees. Protection of woodlands from naturally caused or manmade damage is intended to save trees for their lumber value, maintain watershed cover, preserve wildlife habitat and guard human lives or property.
Major forest protection concerns include livestock grazing, fire, insects, diseases, severe weather and soil erosion.
Years of continuous grazing in Missouri’s hardwood forests by domestic livestock have caused extensive depletion of timber, wildlife and soil resources.
Much of the damage done by grazing is not readily visible and shows up only as a long-term effect.
Over the years, the appearance of a grazed woodland changes. Some trees that are more resistant to grazing may increase in number as the less resistant, but more valuable, oaks are grazed out. Hickories can tolerate more soil compaction than oaks and will survive better in grazed woodlands. Honeylocust seedlings are thorny and seldom eaten by livestock. In addition, cattle will eat honeylocust seedpods and spread undigested seeds everywhere.
The soil erosion on a grazed woodland can be 8 to 10 times greater than erosion from an ungrazed woodland. Ungrazed forestland is the best possible protector of soil, holding erosion to amounts nearly too small to measure. In many situations forests create soil faster than it erodes away. The key to such good protection is the thick layer of dead leaves that build up on top of the soil for years and gradually decompose into the soil.
Maintaining forest cover on land is a sure protection against soil erosion. The build-up of dead leaves on the forest floor protects soil from the splashing of raindrops similar to shingles on a roof. When this deep layer of dead organic matter is in place, forest soils absorb rainfall faster than the water can run off.
Few insect attacks in natural woodlands are destructive enough to warrant our intervention. Insect and disease epidemics are usually controlled by other natural forces which bring them back to tolerable levels. Best defense against insect and disease attacks is to maintain a healthy, vigorously growing, diverse stand of trees.
When insect and disease attacks cause excessive damage to a woodland, it is usually a sign that the woodland is in an unhealthy condition. Timber management activities should be aimed at eliminating the problems causing the timber to grow under stress. Usually this involves thinning young timber stands or harvesting over mature trees.
Fire
Non-woody vegetation increases after a fire as a result of; more light reaching the forest floor, increased nutrient availability, warmer soils in the spring and reduction of leaf litter. Forested understories burnt yearly consist mostly of grasses and legumes, perennials will become part of the mix if fires occur several years apart. Wildlife forage and understory species diversity is greatly enhanced for the first 4 years following a burn, then drops greatly, but still remains above that of an unburnt area for about 10 years.
Oaks are susceptible to damage by fire at all stages of growth. The primary damage is fire scars and subsequent decay. The red oak group and hickories are most susceptible to fire scaring with post oak and pine being the least susceptible.
Many fire scars may not be evident immediately. It can take up to 3 years for fire damage to hardwood trees to become visible.
Leaf litter levels return to pre-burn levels in about 4 years. An increase or decrease in larger woody fuels is unpredictable. The grass, legumes and forbs which increase after a burn are flashy fuels and burn more readily than leaf litter.
Burning is one of the most effective range and wildlife management tools. It is also a valuable tool in creating seedbeds for pine regeneration. However, fire has long been recognized as a major damage agent in hardwoods and no literature has been found which would encourage its use in the production of high quality hardwood trees.
PLANTING TREE SEEDLINGS AND OTHER WILDLAND PLANTS
With few exceptions, whether planting for landscaping, wildlife or forest products the use of native plant species produced from parent plants from the same region has many advantages. Not the least of these being their adaptation to local climate and soils and resistance, or at least a tolerance, to indigenous insects and diseases. Planting materials should be from nurseries that merchandise plants grown from seed or cuttings rather than dug from the wild. Digging and transplanting either trees or wildflowers from the wild yourself can not only be ecologically unsound but frequently futile, as even if the plants do survive, the recovery from the transplanting shock can be very lengthy with the plants never obtaining their former vigor or beauty.
In selecting tree species to plant consideration must be given to site characteristics such as soils and topography as species vary greatly in their requirements for nutrients, moisture and even the amount of available light. In almost all cases prior to planting some site preparation will be necessary and in some cases this is best done the summer or autumn prior to the planting. If planting only a few trees, the site can be prepared by scalping (removing existing vegetation) with a shovel at each planting spot a circle a couple of feet in diameter. If a larger number of seedlings are to be planted, disking or plowing a strip 4 to 6 feet wide or spot or strip treating with a herbicide to control existing vegetation might be more practical. Laying the planting strips out on the land contour and leaving the vegetation between the strips undisturbed (mowed if tall and rank) will minimize the possibility of erosion. If planting in an area free of vegetation, such as a recently abandoned agriculture field, planting a cover crop such as Korean lespedeza or winter wheat can provide protection to the soil as well as help retard the growth of weeds that can seriously compete with the newly planted seedlings.
Most nurseries begin accepting orders in the fall for the next spring’s planting season and the sooner an order is placed the greater the chance of obtaining the desired plants in a timely manner in the planting season. In Missouri the planting season is generally considered to be from mid-February through mid-April (somewhat later in extreme northern parts of the State). Also, in general, the earlier in this time frame the seedlings can be planted the greater the chances of success. However, they should not be planted while the soil is still frozen or partially frozen or extremely wet. When the seedlings are delivered the packages should be examined for damage and any tears repaired immediately. The seedlings should store quite well in the original shipping packing for several days if kept cool and loosely stacked to allow air circulation around the packages. While the seedlings should be kept cool (refrigerated at 35 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit being ideal) and out of direct sunlight, they should not be allowed to freeze. If weather or other circumstances prevent the planting of seedlings for more than two weeks following receipt and cool storage is not available, “heeling-in” of the seedlings should be considered. Heeling-in is a process whereby a trench large enough to accommodate the plants’ root systems is dug and the plants placed loosely and closely spaced in the trench. Soil is then placed over the roots to completely cover them. A layer of mulch of straw, sawdust, etc., to prevent freezing and thawing of the heeling-in bed is also desirable. The plants can be removed from the heeling-in bed as needed for planting.
Seedlings should be planted at a depth equal to or slightly deeper than they grew in the nursery. Hand planting can be accomplished with a variety of tools including a dibble bar designed for planting tree seedlings (dibble bars are frequently available for loan with prior arrangement through the Missouri Department of Conservation), mattock or shovel.
If planting large numbers of seedlings (1000 or more), it may be advantageous to use a planting machine. Tree planting machines designed to be pulled by a farm tractor with a 3-point hitch can also frequently be borrowed, if scheduled in advance, from the Missouri Department of Conservation.
In addition to good site preparation, another critical aspect of ensuring planting success is good weed control for 3 to 5 years following planting. Removing grasses and weeds by shallow cultivation or with the use of herbicides in the rows or at planting spots and mowing between the plants can greatly enhance the survival and growth rate of the seedlings. Mowing alone, while reducing competition for light, does little to reduce the competition of grasses and weeds for moisture and nutrients. As soil conditions and weed species encountered can vary greatly from planting to planting it is wise to seek the advice of a forester or weed control specialist prior to applying herbicides.
Tree Species Characteristics
Important tree species characteristics are seeding and germination habitats, growth rate, tolerance to shade, and reaction to soil physical conditions.
Species differ with respect to their tolerance for shade, the ability of a tree species to grow in the shade of other trees, and competition. Knowledge of a species’ tolerance is essential to the forest manager because trees must grow together in competition for sunlight and nutrients. Trees are classified on a scale from very tolerant to very intolerant. Those that are very tolerant will reproduce and grow beneath a dense canopy. Intolerant species will survive only if their seeds sprout in openings with full sunlight.
Site Characteristics Required for Desirable Tree Growth
Site characteristics that affect tree growth include soil depth, texture, moisture, fertility and topography.
· Soils with a high proportion of sand have large pore spaces between the particles. They tend to be dry because they absorb, as well as drain, water quickly.
· Clay soils have a high water-holding capacity, but they absorb water slowly. Also water adheres so tightly to the clay particles that much of it is unavailable to the plant.
· Soils with a high proportion of silt are most favorable for water absorption and holding capacity.
Topography affects tree growth because of its influence on soil depth and available moisture. Because gravity pulls soil particles and water downhill, soil depth, nutrient supply and available moisture are usually greater on bottomlands and lower slopes than steep slopes and ridge tops.
Aspect, which direction a slope faces, influences the amount of sunlight and soil moisture available to trees. North- and east-facing slopes tend to be cooler and moister than slopes that face south and west.
TAX TIPS FOR FOREST LANDOWNERS
It is very important for landowners to consider the tax implications for their various management expenses and revenues.
Knowledge of the current tax laws and basic record keeping procedures can help landowners earn more income from their woodland operations.
Some basic topics and issues that landowners should examine include:
· Basis and tax records
· Passive loss rules
· Reforestation tax credits and amortization
· Capital gains and self-employment taxes
· Reporting cost-share payments
· Casualty losses
· Management and maintenance expenses
References:
1. Forest Landowners Guide to the Federal Income Tax: by Haney, Hoover, Siegel, and Greene, 2001. Ag Handbook 718. Available through the U.S. Government Bookstore at 404-347-1900.
2. USDA Forest Service publications available on-line at: www.fs.fed.us/spf/coop and www.southernregion.fs.fed.us/spf/coop/taxation
3. IRS publications and forms are available at: www.irs.gov
The owner or lessee of his/her property may mark the property by placing purple paint on trees or posts around the area. Purple paint symbolizes no trespassing and any unauthorized entry upon the property is trespass in the first degree and a class B misdemeanor.
As defined in MRS569.145, each paint mark shall be a vertical line of at least eight inches in length and the bottom of the mark shall be no less than three feet nor more than five feet high. Such paint marks shall be placed no more than one hundred feet apart and shall be readily visible to any person approaching the property.
Landowners are encouraged to shop for a durable, high quality “boundary” paint to insure longevity (5 to 10 years in most cases).
FENCES AND ENCLOSURES
(1)“Lawful fence”, a fence with not less than four boards per four feet of height; said boards to be spaced no farther apart than twice the width of the boards used fastened in or to substantial posts not more than fifteen feet apart with one stay or twelve feet apart with no stays, or any fence which is at least equivalent to the types of fences described herein;
(2)“Stay”, a vertical member attached to each board or wire comprising the horizontal members of the fence
WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT
All wildlife habitats require food, shelter, and water. Each bird or animal has a specific place and role within the forest ecosystem that allows wildlife species to occupy different parts of the same forest. The more places that can be created, the greater the number of species a forest can support. The aim of wildlife management is to create a balance of habitat types to support a variety of species over the long term. The same basic practices that produce a healthy forest can also produce healthy wildlife populations. There are many ways to benefit wildlife in even-age and uneven-age stands. Proper regeneration
methods after a timber sale can also promote wildlife.
The variety of cover conditions --- from the areas recently opened up by logging to the stands of mature timber ---- provides the different types of food and shelter required by many species of game birds and animals New openings are sources of the insects, berries, and buds required by birds such as grouse. Openings also yield heavy growths of browse for deer. As the trees mature, they produce the nuts and fruits preferred by turkey, squirrels, and bears. Many birds and animals utilize the “forest edge, “ a dense growth that fills in along the borders of new openings.
FOREST CYCLE INSERT
URBAN AND YARD TREE MANAGEMENT
Pruning
The objective of pruning is to obtain clear, defect-free wood on the main stem of a tree. Removal of too many live branches at one time will reduce tree growth. Wood healing should be encouraged.
The wounds that result from either natural or artificial pruning must heal cleanly. The extent of internal defects is related to the size of the wound, the number of wounds within a segment of the tree, and the season of year when the wounds are made. Branch collars that form around dead or dying branches are part of the healing process, and should not be removed. Always prune at the outside edge of the branch collar.
For best results, lateral pruning should be done in stages, beginning when the trees and branches are small. You should leave between 40 to 50 percent of the tree height with branches. Not all branches to be pruned should be removed at one time. Pruning should be done in the spring just before bud break. This avoids the fall disease spore production period and minimizes the time before the wounds begin to close. Pruning should continue annually until the desired clear length is obtained.
When a decision is made to reduce the size of an older tree, it can be topped, or it can be pruned properly. Although the speed and nature of re-growth will depend on species and local factors, any comparison of irresponsible topping vs. competent pruning will be dramatic.
Starvation: Topping removes so much of the crown that it cuts off its food-making ability.
Shock: A tree’s crown shields much of the tree from direct rays of the sun. By removing this protection, remaining bark tissue may be scalded. There may also be an effect on neighboring trees and shrubs if they thrive in the shade.
Insects and Disease: The large stubs of a topped tree have a difficult time forming callous and are vulnerable to insect invasions and the spores of decay fungi.
Weak Limbs: The wood of a new limb that sprouts after a larger limb is cut is more weakly attached than a limb that develops more normally.
Rapid New Growth: The resulting sprouts (water sprouts) after topping are far more numerous than normal new growth and they elongate so rapidly that the tree returns to its original height in a very short time – and with a far denser crown.
Ugliness: A topped tree is a disfigured tree. Even with its re-growth it never regains the grace and character of its species.
Cost: Topping may cost less in the short run. However, the result is reduced property value, the expense of removal and replacement if the tree dies, the loss of other trees and shrubs if they succumb to changed light conditions, the risk of liability from weakened branches, and increased future maintenance.
Tree Protection
The protection and preservation of existing trees within construction areas is a valuable practice. It not only adds to the value and aesthetics, but also helps reduce erosion and add environmental benefits. The selection of trees to be protected should take place before construction has begun. It is important to place a barrier around the drip line of the trees to be preserved. Plastic fencing, straw bales, or stakes with fluorescent tape can be used to create a barrier. Many times trees are left unprotected within a construction area. Though they may not show any visible damage many times they die within a short time. This is usually as a result of root damage due to compaction, dirt filling, or digging too close to the root zone. Placement of a barrier will greatly reduce such activity. With a small amount of time, little expense, and caution, existing trees can be preserved and kept healthy for years of enjoyment and environmental benefits.
HOW TO MAKE YOUR HOME
FIRE SAFE CHECKLIST EXTERIOR
Roof
· Remove dead branches overhanging your roof.
· Remove any branches within 10 feet from your chimney.
· Clean all dead leaves and needles from your roof and gutters.
· Install a roof that meets the fire resistance classification of “Class C” or better.
· Cover your chimney with a nonflammable screen of ½-inch or smaller fire proof mesh.
Construction
· Build your home away from ridge tops, canyons, and areas between high points on a ridge.
· Build your home far enough back from your property line that an adequate defensible space may be developed.
· Use fire resistive building materials. Enclose the underside of balconies and aboveground decks with fire resistive materials.
· Limit the size and number of windows in your home that face large areas of vegetation and the
direction from which fire is most likely to come.
· Install only dual-paned or triple-paned windows.
Yard
· Stack woodpiles, above or on the contour, at least 30 feet from all structures and clear away flammable vegetation within 10 feet of woodpiles.
· Locate LPG tanks (butane and propane) at least 30 feet from any structure, on the contour, and surround them with 10 feet of clearance.
· Remove all stacks of construction materials, pine needles, leaves, and other debris from your yard.
· Contact your local fire department to see if open burning is allowed in area; if so, obtain a burning permit.
· Where burn barrels are allowed, clear flammable materials at least 10 feet around the barrel; cover the open top with a nonflammable screen with mesh no larger than ¼ inch.
Access
· Identify at least two exit routes from your neighborhood.
· Construct roads that allow two-way traffic.
· Design road width, grade, and curves to allow access for large emergency vehicles.
· Construct driveways to allow large emergency equipment to reach your house.
· Design bridges to carry heavy emergency vehicles, including bulldozers carried on large trucks.
· Post clear road signs to show traffic restrictions, such as dead-end roads and weight and height limitations.
· Make sure dead-end roads and long driveways have turnaround areas wide enough for emergency vehicles.
· Construct turnouts along one-way roads.
· Clear flammable vegetation at least 10 feet from roads and five feet from driveways.
· Thin forested areas adjacent to driveways.
· Prune and cut back overhanging tree branches above roads to provide adequate clearance for large emergency vehicles.
· Construct fire barriers, such as greenbelts, parks, golf courses, and athletic fields.
· Make sure that your street is named or numbered and a sign visibly posted at each street intersection.
· Make sure that your street name and house number are not duplicated in the county.
· Post your house address at the beginning of your driveway or on the house if it is easily visible from the road.
Outside
· Designate an emergency meeting place outside your home.
· Practice emergency exit drills regularly.
· Make sure that electric lines, fuse boxes and circuit breaker panels are installed and maintained as prescribed by code.
· Contact qualified individuals to perform electrical maintenance and repairs.
· Consider installing residential sprinklers.
Landscape
· Create a “defensible space” by managing the vegetation and fuels within 75 to 100 feet of all structures.
· On steep slopes, manage fuels and vegetation further than 100 feet.
· Thin trees and shrubs to maintain at least 10 feet between foliage.
· For trees taller than 18 feet, prune lower branches within six feet of the ground.
· Choose ornamental landscaping plants that are fire resistive.
· Reduce number of trees in heavily wooded areas by thinning.
· Maintain all plants by regularly removing dead branches, leaves and needles.
Emergency Water Supply
· Maintain an emergency water supply, one that meets fire department standards, through one of the following:
· A community water/hydrant system
· A cooperative emergency storage with neighbors
· A minimum storage supply of 2,500 gallons on your property
· Clearly mark all emergency water sources.
· Create easy firefighter access to your closest emergency water sources.
· If you water comes from a well, consider an emergency generator to operate the pump during a power failure.
GLOSSARY
Basal Area: (BA) is the total cross-sectional area of the trees on one acre of forest, measured in square feet at DBH. This measured in combination with average tree diameter give an indication of tree density. Basal area is expressed as square feet of Basal Area per acre.
Boardfoot: A unit measurement represented by a board 1 foot long, 1 foot wide, 1 inch thick.
BTU: The amount of heat needed to raise one pound of water to one degree Fahrenheit.
Cords: Units of measurement of stacked wood 8 feet long, 4 feet high and 4 feet wide.
Cull Tree: A diseased, defective and/or badly damaged tree which is not commercially usable and impairs growth of adjacent trees in the stand.
DBH: Diameter Breast Height—A diameter measurement taken at 4.5 feet above ground level on the uphill side of a tree.
Fen: Type of wetland located near streams and springs and at the base of bluffs. Fens are fed by ground water, which means soils stay wet much or all of the year.
Glade: Rocky open area covered with grasses, wildflowers, and some shrubs and trees. Glades have dry soil and are often found on south and west-facing hillsides and balds.
Growing Stock: The sum (by number or volume) of all the trees in a forest.
Pulpwood: Wood cut or prepared primarily for manufacture into wood pulps, for subsequent manufacture into paper, fiber board, or other products, depending largely on the species cut and the pulping process.
Rank: (Sometimes as short or face cord) is generally wood that is cut to whatever length the customer orders and stacked 4 feet high and 8 feet long.
Savanna: Widely spaced trees growing among sedges, grasses, small shrubs, and wildflowers.
Saw Timber: Trees that yield logs suitable in size and quality for the production of lumber.
Silviculture: Practices that are directed toward the creation and maintenance of a forest that will best fulfill the objectives of the owner.
Size Classes: Regeneration - trees from 0 - 2 inches DBH
Small timber - trees from 2 – 6 inches DBH
Pole timber – trees from 6 – 12 inches DBH
Saw timber - trees from 12 inches or larger DBH
Site Index: (SI) term indicating total height growth in feet of dominant trees in a well stocked stand over a period of years. In Missouri we use height growth in feet in 50 years. Site Index will be expressed as number i.e. 65 to 75. Site Index can vary by species on the same site.
Specialty Forest
Products: Forest-based food products, handcrafts, florals, medicinals and botanicals.
Stave Bolts: Material cut from the white oak group and used in the manufacture of wooden barrels.
Stocking: The degree of utilization of land by trees as measured in terms of BA and/or the number of trees in a stand.
TSI: (Timber Stand Improvement) term used to identify the management practices designed to improve the vigor, stocking, composition, productivity and quality of a forest stand. TSI methods include weeding, thinning, cull tree removal and pruning.
Undesirable Trees: Trees which could be commercially usable but are not fully utilizing site potential. An example might be post oak or blackjack oak which have very slow rate of growth or poor wood quality in comparison to red oak or pine.
Veneer: Thin sheet of wood cut on veneer machine; there are three kinds of veneers: Sawed, sliced and rotary cut.
“Mission Statement”
The mission of Top of the Ozarks RC&D is to assist local communities in improving the quality of life by coordinating efforts that will enhance economic development, social well being and intelligent management of our natural resources.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, and marital or family status. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA’s TARGET Center at 202-720-2600 (voice and TDD).
To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights,
Room 326W, Whitten Building, 14th and Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC
20250-9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (voice or TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity
provider and employer.