HAZARD TREE REMOVAL PROJECT
June 17-21, 2024
Project Lead: Ava Cocking ava@palouselandtrust.org
or 208-596-4496
The expert sawyer team from HB Saw Services will be busy at Idler’s Rest this June.
A skilled crew from SB Logging LLC will be at Idler’s Rest to remove dead and otherwise hazardous trees to ensure your safety when you visit. This project will improve the overall health of the forest ecosystem, as well as reduce hazards. We are thrilled to have the opportunity to work with skilled forestry professionals to make Idler’s Rest a healthy and safe outdoor space.
Cutting down trees at Idler’s Rest is not a course of action we take lightly, and we recognize that many members of our community care deeply about protections at the preserve. We want to be completely transparent about why this project is so important, and so very necessary.
Good stewardship. Idler’s Rest is well loved and we are honored to steward such a beloved community space. Idler’s Rest is managed as a nature preserve, which means a light touch when it comes to stewardship. We are committed to a safe experience for users. There will be some noticeable changes to the look and feel of the forest. The crew will be practicing minimal impact actions to be as light on the land as possible.
Forest health. Keeping the forest and wildlife habitat healthy at Idler's Rest is our number one priority. That means we need to remove some trees from time to time. Many of the trees that will be removed are dead or dying for root rot, which is an endemic and permanent disease in Idler’s. The root rot will remove most of our Douglas fir and grand fir. We are leaving many of the fir and pseudo-fir species as habitat trees. Only those trees that are within falling distance of the trail will be removed.
Nasty bugs. Fir and pine beetles are wood-boring insects attracted to weakened, damaged, stressed/dying, or dead trees, and they don’t respect property boundaries, that’s for sure. We need to remove infested trees and dispose of them properly to ensure that they don’t make their way to more healthy trees at the preserve. We especially don’t want those beetles to cross the fence and visit our neighbors’ trees. This project will help us deter these little wood predators, keep healthy trees healthy, and allow us to be good neighbors all at the same time.
Expert assistance. Partnering with SB Logging LLC brings necessary expertise in the area of tree management and hazard fuel reduction in a safe and efficient manner. To honor our mission of safety, as well as the request of our contractor, Idler’s Rest, cedar loop side will be closed during active tree removal. Signage and safety volunteers will be onsite to provide information and answer your questions. Thank you for understanding and we appreciate your patience as we work to make Idler’s Rest and even more wonderful place to visit.
Why is this necessary and how can I be involved?
This is an essential piece of managing forest health at Idler’s Rest
At Palouse Land Trust, our primary goal is to maintain the health and vitality of our forests. The tree hazard removal project at Idler’s Rest is a critical component of this mission. By carefully selecting and removing hazardous trees, we are ensuring the forest remains healthy, resilient, and able to support diverse plant and animal life for years to come.
Our duty as a property owner to steward the land for public access
As stewards of Idler’s Rest, we have a responsibility to manage the land in a way that ensures it remains accessible and enjoyable for the public. This project is part of our ongoing commitment to providing a safe and beautiful natural space where visitors can connect with nature, learn, and recreate. Responsible stewardship means taking proactive measures to address potential hazards.
Preventing safety and fire hazards
The safety of our visitors is our top priority. Hazardous trees pose significant risks, including falling branches and increased fire danger. By removing these trees, we are taking essential steps to mitigate these risks and ensure that Idler’s Rest remains a safe environment for everyone. This proactive approach helps prevent accidents and potential fires, protecting both visitors and the forest.
Removal of fire fuels
Reducing fire fuels is a key part of our fire management strategy. Dead and dying trees, along with other combustible materials significantly increase the risk of wildfires. By removing these potential fire fuels, we are enhancing the forest's natural defenses against fire, helping to protect the ecosystem and nearby communities. This project is a crucial measure in maintaining a fire-resilient landscape.
Ensuring visitors have a safe and healthy outdoor space
We are dedicated to providing a safe and healthy outdoor space for all visitors to enjoy. The tree hazard removal project at Idler’s Rest is a necessary step in maintaining the safety and well-being of everyone who visits the preserve. Our efforts will result in a more secure and enjoyable environment, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the beauty and tranquility of Idler’s Rest without concern for their safety.
Enhancing Ecosystem Resilience
By removing hazardous trees, we are enhancing the resilience of the entire ecosystem at Idler’s Rest. Healthy, resilient forests are better able to withstand pests, diseases, and extreme weather conditions. This project helps ensure that our forest can continue to thrive in the face of environmental challenges, safeguarding its beauty and biodiversity for future generations.
Long-term Benefits
While the tree hazard removal project may cause some temporary inconvenience, it is a necessary step for the long-term benefit of Idler’s Rest. The removal of hazardous trees will prevent potential accidents and fires, ensuring that the preserve remains a safe and beautiful place for everyone to enjoy. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work towards creating a healthier forest for the future.
Community Engagement
We value our community’s involvement and are committed to keeping you informed and engaged throughout the tree hazard removal project. Your support and input are vital to our mission. We invite you to stay updated through our website, social media channels, and community meetings, and we encourage you to share your thoughts and questions with us.
Expert Consultation
The tree hazard removal project is guided by the expertise of professional arborists and forest health specialists. We are working closely with these experts to ensure that the removal process follows best practices and minimizes any negative impact on the environment. Their knowledge and experience are crucial in making sure that our efforts are effective and beneficial for the forest's health.
Minimal Environmental Impact
We are dedicated to minimizing the environmental impact of the tree hazard removal project. Our team is taking careful steps to protect wildlife habitats, prevent soil erosion, and ensure that the surrounding vegetation is not disturbed. By following environmentally responsible practices, we aim to maintain the natural beauty and ecological balance of Idler’s Rest.
Future Planning
This tree hazard removal project is part of a broader, long-term plan to maintain and enhance the health and accessibility of Idler’s Rest. We are committed to continuous improvement and proactive management to ensure that the preserve remains a safe, vibrant, and welcoming space for all visitors. Your support helps us achieve these goals and secure the future of this cherished community treasure.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact PLT Community Land Steward Ava Cocking at 208-596-4496 or ava@palouselandtrust.org.