The Jennings Randolph Lake staff announces a timber harvest is scheduled for a 45-acre area near the Robert W. Craig Campground beginning Nov. 30.
A contract will be awarded in November to harvest timber between Nov. 30 and April 12, 2014. There will be a break in harvest from Dec. 1 – 23 for support of the Eighth Annual Bill Nesbit Memorial Challenged Hunt.
“This particular section is overstocked and has a closed canopy,” said Karl Hakala, project manager. “In order to regenerate it, we will use the silviculture method of forest management. The first stage is harvesting shelter wood to open the canopy and initiate regeneration.”
The silviculture method is preferred alternative of active forest management. This method combines the art and science of controlling various aspects of forests and woodlands such as: growth, composition, health and quality. At Jennings Randolph Lake, the young forest will support a rapidly declining, early chain of wildlife habitat. In addition, the mature late string forest will continue to provide interior forest dwelling wildlife species.
The timber harvest is one aspect of the project’s Forest Management Plan for fiscal year 14. The primary goal of forest management activities is to ensure the long-term sustainability of a healthy forest for public recreation, aesthetic value and to support ecosystem and regional biodiversity. The Corps of Engineers is partnering with the Backbone Chapter of the Ruffed Grouse Society to accomplish similar goals.
Although the designated area is nearby the campground, it is not within view. Additionally, harvest dates were set outside of the recreational season to minimize the impact to visitors.
Please contact the park office at 304-355-2346, Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. or visit http://www.nab.usace.army.mil/missions/damsrecreation/jenningsrandolphlake.aspx for more information.
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Release no. 13-035