Black River State Forest - Timber Sales

Timber sales on the Black River State Forest are established through a systematic, multi-step process that involves both state forest staff and various DNR resource managers.

Prior to establishing timber sales, the property holds a meeting in winter to seek input from various DNR programs. The purpose of these gatherings is to alert Black River State Forest staff to any issues of special concern that should be addressed as part of sale design.

Professional foresters then delineate sale areas based on harvest recommendations found in the property's up-to-date inventory (recon) data. In planning sales, the forest staff applies silvicultural prescriptions that are appropriate for the specific timber types being harvested. They also consider aesthetics, best management practices for water quality, insect and disease concerns, and benefits to wildlife and endangered resources.

The forest also conducts lupine and Karner blue butterfly surveys in sale areas as required by the Karner Blue Butterfly Habitat Conservation Plan.

Once sale tracts are sold and harvesting begins, the forest staff regularly visits the sale areas to check that contract specifications are being met and to communicate with logging contractors. These visits ensure that timber harvests meet the objectives of the Black River State Forest and help to maintain vital partnerships.

Timber Sale Program

Our timber sale program page includes any past and current bid packages and bid results, as well as bid requirements and other information.