Attachment 3 - Aho Creek Specifications.pdf

SECTION C – DESCRIPTION /SPECIFICATIONS/STATEMENT OF WORK Aho Creek Marking Contract

C.1 SCOPE

The Aho Creek Marking Contract is located on the Watersmeet/Iron River Ranger District. The project area is 306 acres and was determined through GPS calculations. The marking project involves an 85 acres of northern hardwood selection and thinning harvests, 116 acres of red pine thinning, and 105 acres of plot cruising within aspen clearcut units. Volume estimation is required on all units and involves both sample tree and plot cruising methods. Sample tree cruising (STR) will be performed utilizing cut tree marking methods within Payment Units 02, 03, 04, 08, 09, 10, 12, and 14. Plot cruising methods (PCME) will be utilized within Payment Units 01, 05, 06, 07, and 11.

(1) Hardwood SELECTION (Marking & STR Cruising)

Payment Unit(s): 08, 09, 12: 85 acres

These stands are predominantly comprised of sugar maple and red maple, with lesser amounts of basswood, birch and other hardwoods and mixed conifer of various size classes. The red oak component is typically large sawtimber-sized and occurring in multiple stem clumps. These stands contain both pulpwood and sawtimber Species/Products/Unit mixes. Marking objectives are to remove trees considered high risk, defective, poor form, or mature and to maintain or develop size class structure with optimum growing stock, per the specific marking instructions. The desired future condition of this stand is to maintain a unevenaged stand structure with increased species diversity and minor amounts of clearcut inclusions. Other actions include:

Create one regeneration gap (66’x66’ canopy gap) per 2 acres, where trees are of high risk or poor quality, or gap opportunities can be placed adjacent to recent wind throw areas.

In areas where there are mature aspen trees favor the regeneration of the aspen clone over hardwoods, remove all the overstory (patch clearcut) to allow for the aspen to regenerate.

Refer to the Cruise Plan and Marking Guides for more detailed information and specifications.

(2) Red Pine THINNING (Marking & STR Cruising)

Payment Unit(s): 02, 03, 04, 10, and 14: 116 acres

These stands are a mix of red pine plantations that range in basal area from 120-130 ft2/ac and 230-260 ft2/ac.

They are both in good health but are at the point where growing space is becoming limited. These stands contain both pulpwood and sawtimber Species/Products/Unit mixes. Marking objectives are to remove trees considered high risk, defective, poor form, or mature and to maintain or develop size class structure with optimum growing stock, per the specific marking instructions. The desired future condition of this stand is to promote healthy, vigorous, and resilient red pine that are fully utilizing the site and putting growth on the best quality stems. Other actions include:

In areas where there are aspen trees favor the regeneration of the aspen clone over hardwoods, remove all the overstory (patch clearcut) to allow for the aspen to regenerate. This may result in aspen/spruce clear cut inclusions within the plantation.

Refer to the Cruise Plan and Marking Guides for more detailed information and specifications.

(3) Aspen CLEARCUT (Plots, PCME Cruising)

Payment Unit(s): 01, 05, 06, 07, and 11: 105 acres (53 plots)

These stands are primarily aspen stands with scattered mixed hardwood and conifer species. The desired future condition of these stands is to regenerate an even-aged aspen stand that is growing vigorously, free of suppression

SECTION C – DESCRIPTION /SPECIFICATIONS/STATEMENT OF WORK Aho Creek Marking Contract and differentiating mainly through competition. The regeneration of mixed hardwood and conifer species is also a desired stand trait that should be achieved following this clearcut harvest.

Retain all hemlock, white pine, red pine, white cedar, oak, and elm. Leave tree marking (LTM) is not required to be performed by the contractor for these units and will be performed by USFS personnel where applicable.

Refer to the Cruise Plan and Marking Guides for more detailed information and specifications.

(4) SAMPLE TREE CRUISING METHOD (STR)

The Sample Tree cruising method (STR) involves measuring a specified proportion (Sample Interval) of trees in the defined sub-population. With this cruising method, every tree included for removal must be visited and marked.

Hardwood and Red Pine Selection Payment Unit(s): 02, 03, 04, 08, 09, 10, 12, and 14

In all Selection units the cut tree marking (CTM) method is required. This method requires two-sided (opposite) marking at breast height with stump marks (18-24” tails). This marking method typically relies working through an order of removal with specific criteria guiding what portion of merchantable-sized trees should be marked for removal. Refer to Marking and Cruise Design for trees to be marked with this marking method.

(5) Point Count Measure Tree (PCME, Plot Cruising)

Aspen Clearcut Payment Unit(s): 01, 05, 06, 07, and 11

In Aspen Clearcut Payment Units that are planned for PCME Cruising, the cruise method will be accomplished through the establishment of variable radius plots with a 10 Basal Area Factor (BAF) prism.

Plots are to be systematically distributed at the rate to be determined at pre-work. Refer to the Cruise Plan for the number of plots for each unit, and the planned spacing of plots.

Plot center will be staked and identified with flagging with plot ID# and cruiser initials, tie another 18 to 24 inch length of flagging to a tree or branch at eye level near plot center.

In addition the first sample tree in each sample group will be required to have flagging around it. The

Contractor shall provide colored flagging that is acceptable to the Government. The color will be determined at the pre-work meeting.

Thorough direction on procedures will be given at the pre-work meeting.

A global positioning unit (GPS) will need to be utilized for accurate identification of plot locations and a map provided showing plot locations with direction of travel to each plot.

Note: USFS timber sale preparation personnel will mark a road right-of-way clearing unit that is within the sale area.

C.2 LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION:

The Aho Creek Timber Marking Contract is located on the Watersmeet/Iron River Ranger District and consists of 85 acres of cut tree marking within hardwood selection units, 105 acres of red pine thinning, and 105 acres of aspen clearcuts. The sale area is approximately 7.8 miles NE of Paulding, MI. From Paulding, the sale area is accessed by driving 7.8 miles east on Bond Falls Road, and heading west on Goldfinch Road to Forest Road 5383. The majority of the sale can be found by following Forest Road 5383. More of the sale can be accessed by heading south off of Forest

Road 5383, onto Forest Road 5383-D.

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06001102

USDA - APFO; USDA - USFS – GT AC

KLehmann 04/16/2020 Ë 0 0.15 0.3 0.45 0.60.075 Miles

R

306 Total acres including ROW

Aho Creek TS

Legend NHD Flo wlin e

SalePlanningInterior_TransportationSystem InteriorRo

1 - BASIC CUST ODIAL CARE (CLOSED)

2 - HIGH CLEARANCE VEHICLES

3 - SUIT ABLE FOR PASSENGER CARS

4 - MODERAT E DEGREE OF USER COMFORT

o th er jurisdictio n Ah o Creek_PU_Fin alEdits

P.U. # Acres Marking Method

P.U. 01 29 Plot Cruise

P.U. 02 23 CTM

P.U. 03 23 CTM

P.U. 04 6 CTM

P.U. 05 24 Plot Cruise P.U. 06 14 Plot Cruise P.U. 07 22 Plot Cruise

P.U. 08 43 CTM

P.U. 09 22 CTM

P.U. 10 12 CTM

P.U. 11 16 Plot Cruise

P.U. 12 20 CTM

P.U. 13 (1) #dummy# CTM (USFS)

P.U. 14 52 CTM

AHO CREEK TIMBER SALE CRUISE DESIGN

Sale Number: 60266 Estimated Sale Value: $279,000.00 Estimated CV Ranges: 18-44% Maximum Sampling Error: 10% Based on Comparison Cruise Data: Himanka Hardwoods T.S., East Camp Lake T.S., and Craigsmere T.S.

Cruise Methods: Sample Tree (STR), Point Count Measure Tree (PCMTRE) Cruise Plots [Reference attached Minimum Tree and Piece Utilization Standards, dated 11/02/2015]

Total Contract Sale Acres including Plot Cruising Units (See Strata 3): (307 Acres).

STRATA 1: (CTM) Single-Tree Selection: Payment Unit(s): 08, 09, 12, and 13 (ROW) (86 Acres). [Payment Unit: 13 (R.O.W.-1 acre #dummy#) will be marked and cruised by

USFS].

Sample Group

Species/Product (Unit) DBH Range Sample Interval

HS Hardwood/Pulpwood (02) Small 5.0”-10.99” 1:200 HL Hardwood/Pulpwood (02) Large 11.0”+ 1:40 SS Sugar Maple/Sawtimber (01) Small 11.0”-14.99” 1:10 SL Sugar Maple/Sawtimber (01) Large 15.0”+ 1:5 OS Other Hardwood/Sawtimber (01) Small* 11.0”-14.99” 1:15 OL Other Hardwood/Sawtimber (01) Large* 15.0”+ 1:5 AS Aspen Pulpwood (02) Small 5.0”-13.99” 1:50 AL Aspen Pulpwood (02) Large 14.0”+ 1:30 CW Spruce/Sawtimber (01) 9.0”+ 1:5 CP Mixed Conifer/Pulpwood (02)** 5.0”+ 1:30 PP Pine Pulpwood (02)*** 5.0”+ 1:10 RW Red Pine Sawtimber (01) 9.0”+ 1:10 WW White Pine Sawtimber (01) 9.0”+ 1:1

Note: Cruise all Aspen and Balsam Fir as pulpwood.

*Other Hardwood Sawtimber includes: Red Maple, Basswood, Black Cherry, Red Oak, Black & White Ash and Yellow & White Birch.

**Mixed Conifer pulpwood includes Balsam Fir, Spruce, Tamarack, Cedar, White Pine, and Hemlock.

***Pine Pulpwood includes: Red Pine and Jack Pine

A random start should be used for each sample group at the start of marking in each payment unit. Select a random interval that is less than the required sample interval for the first tally in each sample group, thereafter, sample at the specified sample interval.

Maintain an accurate tree count by payment unit for each sample group. Original field records used for tracking tree counts must be with the tally cards or data recorder sheets when each unit is completed. Do not recopy field notes of tree counts or tally cards.

STRATA 2: (CTM) Red Pine Thinning: Payment Unit(s): 02, 03, 10, and 14 (110 Acres).

Modified Clearcut with Red Pine Thinning: Payment Unit: 04 (6 Acres).

Sample Group

Species/Product (Unit) DBH Range Sample Interval

HP Hardwood/Pulpwood (02) 5.0”+ 1:25 HW Hardwood/Sawtimber (01)* 11.0”+ 1:1 SW Sugar Maple/Sawtimber (01) 11.0”+ 1:1 A Aspen Pulpwood (02) 5.0”+ 1:25

CW Spruce/Sawtimber (01)** 9.0”+ 1:5 CP Mixed Conifer/Pulpwood (02)*** 5.0”+ 1:50

WW White Pine Sawtimber (01) 9.0”+ 1:1 PP Pine Pulpwood (02)**** 5.0”+ 1:100 RS Red Pine Sawtimber (01) Small 9.0”-12.99” 1:75 RL Red Pine Sawtimber (01) Large 13.0”+ 1:40

Note: Cruise all Aspen and Balsam Fir as pulpwood.

*Hardwood Sawtimber includes: Red Maple, Basswood, Black Cherry, Red Oak, Black & White Ash and Yellow & White Birch.

**Spruce Sawtimber includes: Black and White Spruce.

***Mixed Conifer pulpwood includes: Balsam Fir, Spruce, Tamarack, Cedar, White Pine, and Hemlock.

****Pine Pulpwood includes: Red Pine and Jack Pine

A random start should be used for each sample group at the start of marking in each payment unit. Select a random interval that is less than the required sample interval for the first tally in each sample group, thereafter, sample at the specified sample interval.

Maintain an accurate tree count by payment unit for each sample group. Original field records used for tracking tree counts must be with the tally cards or data recorder sheets when each unit is completed. Do not recopy field notes of tree counts or tally cards.

STRATA 3: (DxSPP, Plot Cruise) Modified Clear Cut with retained trees, Payment Unit(s): 01, 05, 06, 07, and 11 (105 Acres). Cruise Method: Point Count/Measure Tree;

Basal Area Factor: 10; Establish 1 plot per 2 acres based on 4 chain X 5 chain grid.

Total plots for Strata 3: 53 plots

Sample Group

Species/Product (Unit) DBH Range Sample Interval

HP Hardwood/Pulpwood (02) 5.0”-10.99” 1st tree, then 1:3****

SW Sugar Maple/Sawtimber(01) 11.0”+ 1:1

HW Hardwood/Sawtimber(01)* 11.0”+ 1:1 AS Aspen Pulpwood (02)Small 5.0”-13.99” 1st tree, then

1:3**** AL Aspen Pulpwood (02)Large 14.0”+ 1st tree, then

1:3**** CW Spruce/Sawtimber (01)** 9.0”+ 1:1 CP Mixed Conifer/Pulpwood (02)***

5.0”+ 1st tree, then

1:2****

All White Pine, Red Pine, hemlock, cedar, oak, elm and ANY orange banded trees should be retained within all plot cruised units.

* All Hardwood Sawtimber includes: Red Maple, Basswood, Black Cherry, Black & White Ash and Yellow & White Birch.

**Spruce Sawtimber includes: Black and White Spruce.

***Mixed Conifer pulpwood includes: Balsam Fir, Hemlock, Cedar, Tamarack, Black and White Spruce.

**** For area estimate cruises having a tally interval, implement as follows: Tally the first tree of each sample group proceeding clockwise from the cardinal direction of travel to the plot.

Dot tally trees 2 and 3 for a 1:3 sample interval and assign to this first tally. Measure tree number 4 and dot tally trees 5 and 6 and assign to this second tally. Proceed with this procedure until all trees in each sample group have been accounted for on the plot.

Plot center will be staked and identified with flagging which contains plot ID# and cruiser initials. All sample trees in each sample group will be required to have its representative tally tree number and the letter “S”(to signify that this is a tally tree) painted on the tree with FS tracer paint. In addition, the contractor will provide a map with GPS locations of each plot and the direction of travel from plot to plot. Thorough direction on procedures will be given at the pre-work meeting.

P.U. # Acres Strata Forest Type Marking

Method Species

P.U. 01 29 3 939 Plot Cruise See Strata 3 P.U. 02 23 2 026 CTM All Species P.U. 03 23 2 026 CTM All Species P.U. 04 6 2 023 CTM All Species P.U. 05 24 3 914 Plot Cruise See Strata 3 P.U. 06 14 3 918 Plot Cruise See Strata 3 P.U. 07 22 3 918 Plot Cruise See Strata 3 P.U. 08 43 1 826 CTM All Species P.U. 09 22 1 845 CTM All Species P.U. 10 12 2 023 CTM All Species P.U. 11 16 3 916 Plot Cruise See Strata 3 P.U. 12 20 1 896 CTM All Species P.U. 13 (1) #dummy# 1 R.O.W. CTM (USFS) All Species P.U. 14 52 2 023 CTM All Species

Cruise Design Prepared by: Kurt Lehmann (Forester) and Mike Martilla (Forestry Tech) Date: 04/15/2020

Cruise Design Reviewed by: Paul Dashner, Forest Check Cruiser Date: 04/25/2018

Cruise Design Approved by: Paul Tikusis, Timber Management

Assistant Date: 04/25/2018

MINIMUM TREE AND PIECE UTILIZATION STANDARDS (11/02/2015 revision)

Minimum Tree

Specifications

Minimum Piece Specifications

SPECIES PRODUCT DBH (inches) Length

(feet)

DIB

(inches)

Minimum

Net Scale in

% of Gross

Hardwoods (except aspen)

Sawlogs 11.0 8 9.6-11.5 95% 1/

Hardwoods Sawlogs 11.0 8 11.6+ 50% 1/

Softwood Sawlogs 9.0 8 7.6 40

All Species Pulpwood 5.0 8 4.0 70 and reasonably straight 2/

1/ In Timber Sale Contracts, all hardwood sawlogs will use 50% minimum net scale in gross %, due to limitations in TIM. Cruising will use 95% minimum net scale for small diameter logs (9.6 – 11.5 DIB).

2/ Seventy percent applies to rot, voids, and char. Mechanical type defects such as sweep, crook, spider heart, and ring shake will not be considered.

Reasonably straight - When the true line of a minimum length piece does not deviate more than ½ the inside diameter of the small and plus two inches from a straight line drawn between the centers of the ends of a piece.

The maximum deflection allowed is what will fit in a 20-inch cylinder.

A minimum tree must include at least one piece that meets minimum specifications.

** Product heights are now measured to the nearest foot. All heights are measured in feet from the ground on the high side of the stump.

1. Conifers – measure total height (to the tip) in feet and the cruise program will calculate the 4” cut-off.

2. Hardwoods (includes Aspen) – measure the height in feet to the 4” top.

3. Sawtimber – cut-off point or “stoppers” will follow our regular practices. Measure sawtimber height in feet. Secondary product height will be measured as described in item 1 or 2 depending on the species.

4. Default dib’s are already built into the equations;

pulpwood = 4.0” sawtimber = 9.6” (hardwood) = 7.6” (mixed conifers, pine)

5. On trees with a broken, dead, or deformed top, record the height to the point where the 4” top or the tip would have been if the tree were still growing normally, then record defect to account for the missing volume.

ONF-2400-2

3/1/07 Version

OTTAWA NATIONAL FOREST

SILVICULTURAL PRESCRIPTION / MARKING GUIDES

STAND INFORMATION

PU -

Ranger District

Comp- Stand Acres MA LTA ELTP Habitat Type

Cover Type LSC

Year of

Origin Size

Density SI BA 1-06 01/39 29 3.1a 1 186C TM 93 500 1929 9 72 140

1 73E TM

1 73D TM

6-06 13/04 14 3.1a 1 72B TM 91 500 1933 8 60 140

7-06 13/14 22 3.1a 1 72D TM 91 500 1933 8 60 100

1 72C TM

1 72B TM

11-06 13/13 16 3.1a 2 44B ATD 91 600 1944 6 110

2 44C ATD

STAND DESCRIPTION

These stands vary from 80-160 ft2/ac, and are a mix of pure aspen as well as mixed aspen with hardwood and softwood pulp. The mixed stands have red maple and balsam fir in the 6-10 inch size class beginning to move into the overstory where the aspen is beginning to decline. There is mortality in the white spruce and balsam fir that has dropped the current basal area to as low as 50 sq ft/ac in some areas. The aspen is showing signs of aspen trunk rot, conks, and advanced decay. The midstory and understory are comprised of red maple, paper birch and balsam fir which are shading out any aspen regeneration. Some red and white pine of varying size and dominance exist scattered throughout the stands.

DESIRED CONDITION

An even-aged aspen stand that is growing vigorously and free of competing vegetation. The canopy should be singular with some breaks due to small inclusions of failed aspen response and larger remnant trees (white pine, red pine, hemlock, cedar, oak and elm). Hardwood and softwood species are still present, but are subordinate to the dominant aspen overstory.

SHORT AND LONG TERM OBJECTIVES

Apply silvicultural treatments to regenerate and restore a healthy even-aged aspen stand.

Retain healthy white pine, red pine, hemlock, cedar, oak and elm.

Achieve a stocking level of 3,200 seedlings per acre of native species.

Maintain and protect ecological processes and functions in and around riparian areas where they occur within the sale area.

Promote and maintain aspen stands through timely rotations to maintain the health and vigor of the aspen clone.

NEPA DECISION DOCUMENT: Interior VMP TIMBER SALE: Aho Creek T.S. PU: see table

REMARKS

Within cutting units with an objective to regenerate aspen, retain all healthy existing white pine, red pine, hemlock, cedar, oak, and elm. These species can be cut to facilitate timber harvest operations where necessary.

Other species, such as healthy black cherry, and other hardwood species may be retained. Trees to be retained are 5.0 inches or larger and on average have a residual basal area that does not exceed 10 ft2/ac. The objective for retaining these species is to add species and structural diversity to the stand while not limiting successful aspen regeneration and future productivity. Oak and elm should be retained as a group of trees to protect from dieback. Lone white pine, hemlock and cedar can be left as lone trees. Thin red pine pockets where they exist.

MARKING GUIDE:

Name of Treatment - Stand Clearcut

Residual BA/Ac – <5 Ft2/Ac of trees to be retained

Acres - See attached cover sheet

Clearcut the mature aspen clones and retain healthy white pine, red pine, hemlock, cedar, oak and elm as Leave Trees. The oak and elm need to have adjacent trees retained to maintain the micro site surrounding the targeted reserve tree, this may include high risk aspen.

DESIGN CRITERIA AND MITIGATION MEASURES

Highlighted Design Criteria, see NEPA for all of the criteria

Cull trees should be left for wildlife, do not remove trees with little or no value unless they pose a safety hazard (A1). If cull trees need to be marked the silviculturist should be notified to look at the risk.

If any stick nests are found (A1) the wildlife biologist should be consulted.

If any archaeological sites are located during layout or implementation the Archaeologist should be consulted.

POST HARVEST TREATMENTS

FACTS Code Name of Treatment Prescription 4493 Site Preparation for Natural Remove all residual sub-merchantable material except some patches of low to the ground conifer. Leave all trees noted above.

4341 Stocking Survey Survey to ensure adequate regeneration of 3200 TPA on 40% 1/1000 th ac plots 4341 Stocking Survey Survey to ensure adequate regeneration of 3200 TPA on 40% 1/1000 th ac plots 4381 Certification for Naturals w/SP Enter certification once regeneration goal is met.

ACTIVITIES SUMMARY

Year Facts Activity Code Description 2022 4113 Clearcut 2023 4493 Site preparation for naturals 2023 4341 1st Year Stocking Survey 2025 4341 3rd Year Stocking Survey 2025 4381 Certification for Naturals w/SP

Prepared by: Christopher R. Boroski

Reviewed by:

Reviewed by:

Approved by: Dave Steffensen

Title: District Silviculturist

Title:

Title:

Title: Certified Silviculturist

Date: 03/03/2020

Date:

Date:

Date: 03/03/2020

Cover Type LSC

Year of

Origin Size

Density SI BA 4-06 13/04 6 3.1a 1 72B TM 91 500 1933 8 60 140

13/06 3.1a 1 72B TM 91 800 1933 4 110

2 44B ATD

1 73C TM

5-06 13/04 24 3.1a 1 72B TM 91 500 1933 8 60 140

13/06 3.1a 1 72B TM 91 800 1933 4 110

1 73C TM

Stand 13/06 is highly variable in species composition and age. The northeast portion is primarily red pine plantation.

The current basal area is near 200 ft2/ac with an average diameter of 10 inches. It is estimated that the plantation was established around the 1970’s along with the adjacent red pine stands, and may or may not have skid trails established. The red pine is concentrated in pockets that are surrounded by aspen dominated hardwoods.

Stand 13/04 is a mix of mature aspen pockets and upland hardwoods containing scattered aspen in as single trees or clumps. This area has an average basal area of 120 ft2/ac and the understory is currently dominated by red and sugar maple with balsam fir in the canopy gaps. Currently the overstory, midstory and understory are shading out any aspen regeneration, and the aspen is beginning to show signs of rot and decay.

An even-aged aspen stand that is growing vigorously and free of competing vegetation. The canopy should be singular with some breaks due to small inclusions of failed aspen response and larger remnant trees (white pine, red pine, hemlock, cedar, oak and elm). Hardwood and softwood species are still present, but are subordinate to the dominant aspen overstory.

The red pine pockets will be maintained to improve and promote the health, vigor and resiliency of the red pine and to best utilize the sites where they are established. The pockets will help to promote species diversity and structural complexity within the aspen stand.

Aspen Apply silvicultural treatments to regenerate and restore a healthy even-aged stand.

Retain healthy white pine, hemlock, cedar, oak and elm.

Achieve a stocking level of 3,200 seedlings per acre of native species.

Maintain and protect ecological processes and functions in and around riparian areas where they occur within the sale area.

Promote and maintain aspen stands through timely rotations to maintain the health and vigor of the aspen clone.

Red Pine

Red pine plantations that are overstocked and require density reduction by removing suppressed, poor formed and high risk trees.

The main objective will be to favor the best red pine crop trees, but also improving the growing space by reducing stand density. Crop trees should exhibit the following criteria:

o Live Crown Ratio >30%.

o Dominant or co-dominant trees w/ good crown vigor.

NEPA DECISION DOCUMENT: Interior VMP TIMBER SALE: Aho Creek T.S. PU: 4 & 5 o Low risk of mortality or failure [main stem breakage].

o Good stem quality.

Within the cutting unit with an objective to regenerate aspen, retain all healthy existing white pine, red pine, hemlock, cedar, oak, and elm. These species can be cut to facilitate timber harvest operations where necessary.

Other species, such as healthy black cherry, and other hardwood species may be retained. Trees to be retained are 5.0 inches or larger and on average have a residual basal area that does not exceed 10 ft2/ac. The objective for retaining these species is to add species and structural diversity to the stand while not limiting successful aspen regeneration and future productivity. Oak and elm should be retained as a group of trees to protect from dieback. Lone white pine, hemlock and cedar can be left as lone trees.

In red pine plantations, forwarding corridors must be established if not currently present prior to marking to thinning objective.

There are scattered, small, poorly drained pockets, seeps, steep slopes, perched water tables, or shallow bedrock areas; do not designate any trees for removal in these areas.

Name of Treatment - Stand Clearcut w/ leave trees and Thinning

Residual BA/Ac – See Below

Clearcut the mature aspen clones and areas where aspen is greater than 20 basal area. Retain healthy white pine, red pine, hemlock, cedar, oak and elm as Leave Trees. The oak and elm need to have adjacent trees retained to maintain the micro site surrounding the targeted reserve tree, this may include high risk aspen.

Residual basal area for retained trees should be less than 10 ft2/ac.

The red pine plantations within the aspen stand are young, highly overstocked and will require steps along the way, over time, to develop big tree character. Therefore, marking should not reduce stand densities over 40% of initial stocking.

Mark by the following:

1. These stands have not received commercial treatment. Therefore it is highly suggested that forwarding corridors are established FIRST. There should be 50 feet separation between corridors measured from the edge of corridor. Row removal may be an option or sometimes installing perpendicular may be necessary due to terrain and/or landing placement.

2. Next, look for healthy white pine, hemlock, cedar and oak and provide a full crown release. Also favor these species over all other species, unless needed to be marked for logging operability. If these species not present in a given area then:

3. Favor the retention of healthy, full crowned red pine trees > 13” DBH [ok, if a few 11-12” DBH trees] and provide a four-sided crown release. Allow some competition among these dominant trees if numerous – but be mindful of logging operations.

4. After addressing #1 and #2, mark through the stand favoring all other non-red pine species. It would be acceptable to leave some young conifer species or even large spruce for future snags. The quality of these trees can be marginal, but as long as the tree is not high risk, keep it in the unit.

Keep in mind:

The most competitive stems will be in the larger diameter classes, therefore most trees in the 6”-8” size classes should be marked in most cases.

Stems within the small and larger sawtimber category that exhibit sweep, crook and forks within the merchantable bole CAN BE RETAINED, but can also be higher priority to mark if difficulty meeting desired

BA.

5. If basal area is still above desired, focus on the relative spacing and crown touching, and provide about 10-15 foot spacing based on table below.

Spacing Guideline

AVE DBH

OBSERVED

SPACING

12” 10 14” 12 16” 14

Cull trees should be left for wildlife, do not remove trees with little or no value unless they pose a safety hazard (A1). If cull trees need to be marked the silviculturist should be notified to look at the risk.

If any archaeological sites are located during layout or implementation the Archaeologist should be consulted.

4493 Site Preparation for Natural Remove all residual sub-merchantable material except some patches of low to the ground conifer. Leave all trees noted above.

4341 Stocking Survey Survey to ensure adequate regeneration of 3200 TPA on 40% 1/1000 th ac plots 4341 Stocking Survey Survey to ensure adequate regeneration of 3200 TPA on 40% 1/1000 th ac

2022 4117/4220 Clearcut w/ leave trees and Commercial Thinning 2023 4493 Site preparation for naturals 2023 4341 1st Year Stocking Survey

Reviewed by:

Approved by: Dave Steffensen

Title: District Silviculturist

Title:

Title:

Title: Certified Silviculturist

Date: 03/02/2020

Date:

Cover Type LSC

Year of

Origin Size

Density SI BA 8-06 13/11 43 3.1a 2 44D ATD 84 600 1937 5 110

2 44C ATD

2 38B ATD; AVO

1 73C TM

16/03 3.1a 2 44D ATD; TMZ 82 600 1933 6 120

2 36 FI; FI-C

16/02 3.1a 2 44D ATD; TMZ 82 500 1930 9 100

1 186C TM

9-06 13/11 22 3.1a 2 44D ATD 84 600 1937 5 110

2 38B ATD; AVO

1 73C TM

16/03 3.1a 2 44D ATD; TMZ 82 600 1933 6 120

2 36 FI; FI-C

12-06 14/14 20 3.1a 2 44C ATD 89 500 1926 6 60 130

14/15 3.1a 2 44C ATD 89 500 1931 9 70 110

1 71D TM

1 72C TM

The stands consist of predominantly sugar and red maple with small amounts of other hardwood species usually occurring in scattered distribution. Quality can greatly vary from pockets of trees where most are unacceptable growing stock to trees with acceptable quality and height. The red oak component is typically large sawtimber-sized and occurring in multiple stem clumps. The paper birch quality is marginal at best and in many areas starting to decline. There are pockets of quaking and big tooth aspen forming small inclusions within the predominantly hardwood dominated stands. Regeneration is mostly sugar maple with balsam fir; advanced regeneration mostly ironwood, balsam fir and sugar maple.

An uneven aged northern hardwood stand with the current species diversity maintained or increased. There will be minor amounts of clearcut inclusions, but selection can be applied to areas where the stocking is high and there is no need to regenerate a new age class. Regeneration may be negatively impacted due to sedge competition and browse pressure.

Apply silvicultural treatments to regenerate and restore a healthy uneven-aged northern hardwood stand.

Target a residual basal area of 85 FT2/AC.

Reduce the prevalence of canker.

Retain or increase species diversity by retaining species other than sugar maple.

Retain healthy white pine, hemlock, cedar, oak and elm.

Achieve a stocking level of 3,000 seedlings per acre of native species.

Maintain and protect ecological processes and functions in and around riparian areas where they occur within the sale area.

Promote and maintain aspen inclusions to maintain the health and vigor of the aspen clones.

There are scattered, small, poorly drained pockets, seeps, steep slopes, perched water tables, or shallow bedrock areas; do not designate any trees for removal in these areas.

Name of Treatment - Selection Harvest

Residual BA/Ac – 85 Ft2/Ac

Remove high risk trees that are diseased/structurally damaged and most trees over 24” unless it’s cull or have wildlife use. Choose to retain and promote healthy yellow birch, ash, hemlock, basswood, oak, and occasionally a cherry, white pine, or cedar to maintain or increase diversity. Install one (1) Regeneration gap (66’x66’ measured edge of canopy to edge of canopy) per two (2) acres by utilizing removal of large diameter and/or poor quality trees. It is recommended to generate the opening before marking the surrounding area to the target residual basal area.

Order of Removal:

1. Target high risk trees that are diseased or structurally damaged will most likely die within the next 15 years that still contain merchantable products. Trees lacking merchantable products can be retained for future wildlife snag/cavity trees.

2. Promote quality development though removing competing trees of lesser quality to release the best crop trees. Competition among closely spaced crop trees can be retained to preserve the quality of the stand while still maintaining the target residual BA.

3. If still above BA objective: continue to remove unacceptable growing stock my targeting all size classes that exhibit signs of structural/growth/disease that may be inhibiting the current or future growth potential while improving the growing space of the residual stems.

In areas where there are mature aspen trees favor the regeneration of the aspen clone over hardwoods, remove all the overstory (clearcut) to allow for the aspen to regenerate. Expanding the size of the clone by 1 tree length (75’) is acceptable if the clone will be most likely shaded out by neighboring trees. If immature aspen clones are present continue to favor the aspen by removing the hardwoods within the clone so there is potential to regenerate it in the future. Do not mark trees in wet areas where equipment can’t reach them. In areas of basswood and hemlock a slightly higher basal area should be left. I would expect the clearcut acres to total less than 25 in the hardwood units.

Cull trees should be left for wildlife, do not remove trees with little or no value unless they pose a safety hazard (A1). If cull trees need to be marked the silviculturist should be notified to look at the risk.

If any archaeological sites are located during layout or implementation the Archaeologist should be consulted.

4493 Site Preparation for Natural Reduce ironwood and release hardwood regeneration 4341 Stocking Survey Survey to ensure adequate regeneration of 3200 TPA on 40% 1/1000 th ac plots 4341 Stocking Survey Survey to ensure adequate regeneration of 3200 TPA on 40% 1/1000 th ac

2022 4151 Selection Harvest 2023 4494 Site Prep for Natural Regen - Mechanical 2023 4341 1st Year Stocking Survey

Reviewed by:

Approved by: Dave Steffensen

Title: District Silviculturist

Title: TMA

Title:

Title: Certified Silviculturist

Date: 03/02/2020

Date:

Cover Type LSC

Year of

Origin Size

Density SI BA 2-06 01/26 23 3.1a 1 72B TM 2 500 1941 6 75 140

1 72C TM

1 73E TM

3-06 01/24 23 3.1a 1 72C TM 2 500 1937 6 65 190

10-06 14/13 12 3.1a 2 44D ATD; TMV 2 500 1984 3 70

2 44C ATD

16/06 3.1a 1 76B TM; ATD 2 600 1984 4 70

2 44D ATD; TMV

Stands 01/24 and 01/26 are red pine plantations that were established during the late 1930’s. Basal area is currently around 120-130 ft2/ac. The stands exhibit signs of good health, but are at the point where growing space will become limited, which can introduce stress decreasing resistance to insect and disease. These stands may not have adequate forwarding trails established and will require forwarding routes to be marked prior to thinning the stand to the objective.

Stands 14/13 and 16/06are red pine plantations that were established during the mid-1980’s. Basal area is currently around 230-260 ft2/ac. The stands exhibit signs of good health, but are at the point where growing space will become limited, which can introduce stress decreasing resistance to insect and disease. These stands may not have adequate forwarding trails established and will require forwarding routes to be marked prior to thinning the stand to the objective.

Stands 01/24, 01/26, 14/13 and 16/06: The desired future condition is to promote healthy, vigorous, and resilient red pine that are fully utilizing the site and putting growth on the best quality stems. Eventually, the expectation is that the plantations would develop big trees faster, over time, and have more of a heterogeneous structure and composition.

Thin red pine to achieve the desired spacing as described in the Marking Guide.

Retain healthy white pine, hemlock, cedar, oak and elm.

Maintain and protect ecological processes and functions in and around riparian areas where they occur within the sale area.

Promote and maintain red pine (stands 01/24, 01/26, 14/13 and 16/06) to maintain the health and vigor of the plantation.

There are scattered, small, poorly drained pockets, seeps, steep slopes, perched water tables, or shallow bedrock areas; do not designate any trees for removal in these areas.

Name of Treatment - Commercial Thinning

Residual BA/Ac – See Below

Stands 01/24, 01/26, 14/13 and 16/06: Thin the red pine down to a basal area no lower than 90-100 FT2/AC, but do not remove greater than 40% of the initial BA (leaving the lower basal area when trees are smaller (12-14”) and leaving a higher basal area where residual dbh is closer to 16”). This will mean that some areas will have residual basal area higher than the prescribed residual. All high risk maple, fir, and pine should be harvested as well as all mature aspen and spruce. This may result in aspen/spruce clear cut inclusions within the plantation, I would expect the clearcut acres to total less than 2.5.

Order of Removal:

1. Retain most non-red pine species in areas where densities are high – accept some risk and/or poor quality; this will contribute to structural/habitat diversity objectives for the stand.

2. Mark all high risk trees and poor vigor; consider marking most red pine with crown decline as low vigor.

3. Thin from below; work towards the development of co-dominant and dominant trees by removing the competing smaller diameter and suppressed trees.

4. If density still above desired then mark stems within the small and larger sawtimber category that exhibit sweep, crook and forks within the merchantable bole.

5. If density still above desired then mark trees to improve the relative spacing; reference table below for general guidelines.

Spacing Guideline

AVE DBH OBSERVED SPACING

12” 10 14” 12 16” 14

Crop Tree Characteristics:

1. Live Crown Ratio >30%.

2. Dominant or co-dominant trees w/ good crown vigor and stem quality

3. Low risk of mortality or failure [e.g. main stem breakage].

Cull trees should be left for wildlife, do not remove trees with little or no value unless they pose a safety hazard (A1). If cull trees need to be marked the silviculturist should be notified to look at the risk.

If any archaeological sites are located during layout or implementation the Archaeologist should be consulted.

None

2022 4220 Commercial Thinning

Reviewed by:

Approved by: Dave Steffensen

Title: District Silviculturist

Title:

Title:

Title: Certified Silviculturist

Date: 03/02/2020

Date:

Cover Type LSC

Year of

Origin Size

Density SI BA

14-06 13/03 50 8.1 1 72B TM 2 600 1970 6 130

1 72C TM

13/23 20 8.1 19i 3230B AVO; FE; FI 2 500 1975 5 70 30

1 3073E TM

Red pine plantation established during mid-1970s. There are no records of past harvest activity in either stand.

Basal area can range dramatically from 140 – 200 ft2/ac in the red pine and as low as 50 ft2/ac in the aspen. The red pine stands exhibit signs of relative good health, although the red pine is exhibiting overstocked conditions and is fortunate treatment is occurring now. The stand is certainly at the point where growing space becomes over utilized and creates stressed growing conditions which can lower resistance to insect and disease. Throughout the stands, aspen pockets of varying size and density are showing high levels of mortality in the white spruce, balsam fir, and paper birch. The aspen and red maple seem to be responding favorably to the increased sunlight, although regeneration is primarily red maple and balsam fir.

The desired future condition is an uneven-aged stand with small group openings containing new age classes. The red pine will be harvested to promote healthy, vigorous, and resilient red pine that are fully utilizing the site and putting growth on the best quality stems. Eventually, the expectation is that the plantations would develop big trees faster, over time, and increase the structure and composition of the stands. Throughout the stands, existing canopy gaps will be maintained to improve health, increase species and age diversity, as well as structural complexity.

Red pine plantations that are overstocked and require density reduction by removing suppressed, poor formed and high risk trees. Units will be treated with a combination of thinning from below and group harvesting techniques.

The former to provide more growing space to improve crown development and increase overall health, vigor and quality; the latter technique to establish a cohort of other species and slowly progress the stand from [purely] red pine plantation to a more mixed stand.

The main objective will be to favor the best red and white pine crop trees, but also improving the growing space by reducing stand density. Crop trees should exhibit the following criteria:

o Live Crown Ratio >30%.

o Dominant or co-dominant trees w/ good crown vigor.

o Low risk of mortality or failure [main stem breakage].

o Good stem quality.

Other objectives will be to maintain and improve species diversity via the marking/harvesting and post-harvest treatments to better meet WSR guides and ORV’s w/in the nested stands of this river segment.

Forwarding corridors must be established if not currently present prior to marking to the thinning objective.

NEPA DECISION DOCUMENT: Interior VMP TIMBER SALE: Aho Creek T.S. PU: 14

Name of Treatment - Wildlife Habitat Regeneration Cut

Residual BA/Ac – 120 ft2/ ac

Though this prescription addresses stands in the WSR and needs to meet non-timber objectives, the guidelines will not meet desired goals this entry. This is a young, highly overstocked stand and will require steps along the way, over time, to develop big tree character. Therefore, marking should not reduce stand densities over 40% of initial stocking.

Mark by the following:

1. These stands have not received commercial treatment. Therefore it is highly suggested that forwarding corridors are established FIRST. There should be 50 feet separation between corridors measured from the edge of corridor. Row removal may be an option or sometimes installing perpendicular may be necessary due to terrain and/or landing placement.

2. Next, look for healthy white pine, hemlock, cedar and oak and provide a full crown release. Also favor these species over all other species, unless needed to be marked for logging operability. If these species not present in a given area then:

3. Favor the retention of healthy, full crowned red pine trees > 13” DBH [ok, if a few 11-12” DBH trees] and provide a four-sided crown release. Allow some competition among these dominant trees if numerous – but be mindful of logging operations.

4. After addressing #1 and #2, mark through the stand favoring all other non-red pine species. It would be acceptable to leave some young conifer species or even large spruce for future snags. The quality of these trees can be marginal, but as long as the tree is not high risk, keep it in the unit.

Keep in mind:

The most competitive stems will be in the larger diameter classes, therefore most trees in the 6”-8” size classes should be marked in most cases.

Stems within the small and larger sawtimber category that exhibit sweep, crook and forks within the merchantable bole CAN BE RETAINED, but can also be higher priority to mark if difficulty meeting desired BA.

5. If basal area is still above desired, focus on the relative spacing and crown touching, and provide about 10-15 foot spacing based on table below.

Spacing Guideline

AVE DBH OBSERVED SPACING

12” 10 14” 12 16” 14

6. Create group openings by marking all merchantable-sized trees except for species in step 2. These gaps can be ½ acre to 2 acres in size and essentially should focus on regenerating aspen, or providing a gap to fill-in plant white pine and oak. Many areas exist scattered throughout the area that can utilized to meet this objective.

Cull trees should be left for wildlife, do not remove trees with little or no value unless they pose a safety hazard (A1). If cull trees need to be marked the silviculturist should be notified to look at the risk.

If any archaeological sites are located during layout or implementation the Archaeologist should be consulted.

None

2022 6104 Wildlife Habitat Regeneration Cut

Reviewed by:

Approved by: Dave Steffensen

Title: District Silviculturist

Title:

Title:

Title: Certified Silviculturist

Date: 03/02/2020

Date: