Forest Management

two men talking amongst machinery
Monitoring a timber sale

The Governor Knowles State Forest practices sustainable forestry. This means that the forest is managed according to its natural capability to provide a wide array of benefits today and into the future. Ecological benefits of sustainable forestry include protection of soils, water quality, native biological diversity and aquatic and terrestrial wildlife habitat. Sustainable forestry also benefits visitors to the forest, who enjoy diverse recreational opportunities.

Wisconsin’s economy is dependent on our sustainable forest practices for quality wood products, continuous wood supply and employment. Forestry is the second-largest industry in the state. The forest has an active timber management program to ensure the health of the state forest for years to come. The way trees are cut and managed on the forest range from clear-cutting for some species needing full sunlight to regenerate, to select cuts for encouraging growth in the remaining trees. Many times, the purpose of select cutting is to remove stunted, deformed and weak trees. This allows the healthier trees to grow better. Usually following a cutting, the reforestation process begins.

small treees growing in a field
Reforestation

Over the past 25 years, more than 2.5 million trees have been planted on the Governor Knowles State Forest. Most of the trees planted have been pine species such as red pine, jack pine, white pine, and spruce. These plantings provide critical protection for wildlife in the winter and nesting opportunities for many birds. Northern pin oak, which makes up most of our hardwood stands, regenerates itself after being cut (its stumps sprout new growth). Aspen grows in full sunlight and provides food and cover for wildlife.

Forests are a renewable resource and that is why we strive to manage a sustainable forest. Through our present management practices, future generations will enjoy the same ecological, social, and economic benefits we have today.

Last Revised: Thursday April 24 2008