Arrival of Emerald Ash Borer hinders efforts to keep forests healthy, says SVCA

The Emerald Ash Borer is now present within many parts of the Saugeen watershed, including shoreline communities and some urban areas. Staff at the Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority (SVCA) reminds landowners that now more than ever is an important time to keep the local forests healthy.

“There will always be threats to our forests and ecosystems”, says Donna Lacey, forest technician with the SVCA, “so while we may feel discouraged by the current state of affairs, it’s important to be proactive and take steps now that can minimize the impact and damage from the Emerald Ash Borer.”

Lacey adds a word of caution with respect to potential harvesting operations. “Before you take on this initiative, be sure to ask yourself the following:”
 

• What is the financial value of my forest?
• Am I being offered a fair price?
• Will all trees be marked prior to harvest so that I can see what will be removed?
• Are other trees being inadvertently selected for removal?
• Do I have the option of checking the quality of the work being done?
• Make sure I have a contract, and once I do, is there an assurance that work will be carried out professionally?
• Does the individual/company stop work during wet seasons?
• Is the individual/company licensed and insured?

“One of the key points in managing a forest is to maintain a diversity of species within your woodlot," says Lacey. "While the ash may be taking a down-turn, we still have plenty of other species in our forests. We have to encourage their growth and health to help fill in the gaps from the missing ash trees.

“Also, if harvesting is the preferred option, keep in mind that no more than one-third of the standing timber should be removed. Unfortunately, we’ve already had a number of complaints from landowners about harvesting operations that have gone horribly wrong. There will always be opportunists out there and sometimes, as a landowner, it’s difficult to know what to do. A qualified harvester will know the points above and realize the value of forest health and sustainability."

Lacey says a typical harvest cycle should take place every 15 to 20 years. “These cycles may have to be shortened; however, in anticipation of the impending damage due to the loss of the ash trees. Undertaking proper forest management will help minimize the damage and ensure that your woodlot is sustainable for future generations and for future harvest operations.

“Forests that contain a good diversity of species will likely bounce back fairly well. However, forests that are predominately ash will benefit from the thinning of ash over a few cycles.

“It’s also extremely important to note, that the removal of all ash trees in one harvest will have catastrophic effects on the forest health and ecosystem, as well as financial returns in the future. It would be beneficial to leave a few good quality ash trees scattered throughout the forest to act as a seed source for the next crop of ash trees.”

In Grey and Bruce counties, all commercial forest harvests require a permit from the county. There are many forestry consultants and other forestry professionals within the two counties who would gladly offer forest inventory, tree marking, harvest tendering, and harvest supervision services to ensure that your forest is properly taken care of. The SVCA also provides that service and would be happy to provide assistance or answer any questions.

Landowners who are interested in checking out the average price of ash, can contact a local forestry professional.

Lacey’s final word of advice is to “not panic and act rashly. There are still many good options when it comes to the future health of our local woodlots. Nature is fairly resilient, and with a little help, we can ensure its continued health and sustainability for many years to come.”