This creature has killed thousands of Idaho trees. Here's what will happen to them
This creature has killed thousands of Idaho trees. Heres what will happen to them
BY KEITH RIDLER ASSOCIATED PRESS
JULY 31, 2019 02:26 PM, UPDATED JULY 31, 2019 08:46 PM
BOISE, IDAHO
Salvage logging of moth-killed Douglas fir and grand fir trees followed by replanting with a mix of species will improve the overall health and increase profitability of a western Idaho forest, state officials say.
State Forester David Groeschl of the Idaho Department of Lands said logging practices last century removed ponderosa pine and other desired species, leaving Douglas fir and grand fir as the dominant species now being killed by tussock moths.
We will replant it and get forest recovery going as quickly as possible, Groeschl said July 30. We tend to plant a mix because we believe that gives us some diversity and resilience.
Groeschl said the strategy offers the best chance at maximizing profit on the land over the long run, the constitutional mandate of the five-member Idaho Land Board, which includes Gov. Brad Little, and which directs the Lands Department.
State lands about 2.4 million acres (987,000 hectares) produce money mainly for public schools and mostly through timber harvests.
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