Timber operations on DNR lands

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Stopping Invasive Species

If you are working on DNR-administered lands, we are asking you to voluntarily comply with new invasive species guidelines designed to minimize the risk of introducing and spreading damaging invasive species.

The Issue:

Invasive species are being introduced and spread at an ever-increasing rate. Once established, they can permanently alter the soil structure, disrupt native plant communities, reduce dependent wildlife populations, and impact long-term forest productivity.

The Goal:

To slow the spread of existing infestations and minimize the risk of introducing new infestations of damaging invasive species into our forests.

We Are Asking Loggers To:

Before Harvest:

Review the division's invasive species guidelines with all workers and subcontractors working on the site.

Ensure that all vehicles, equipment, and trailers are free of caked mud, dirt clods, plants, plant parts, bark, or debris before they enter the site.

During or After Harvest:

Remove any caked mud, dirt clods, plants, plant parts, bark, or debris from all vehicles, equipment, and trailers before they leave the site.

Work with the timber sale administrator to correct any problems he/she may have observed with vehicles and equipment moving on-and off-site (for example, vehicles or logs caked with mud).

In Addition, DNR Staff Will:

Before Sale:

Survey stands for invasive species and treat any potentially damaging infestations found as funding allows.

Determine any additional measures needed to minimize the spread and/or intensification of the invasive species.

Consult with the program manager where critical infestations are found before including management practices in the contract language.

Before Harvest:

Work with the contractor to plan access routes and landings to avoid crossing all-terrain vehicle trails or existing patches of invasive plants.

Identify on-site areas where vehicles, equipment, trailers, and personal gear can be cleaned.

Inspect all vehicles, equipment, and trailers present at the pre-harvest meeting and use the opportunity to inform vendors of the division's requests to minimize the introduction and/or spread of invasive species.

During Harvest:

Monitor operations periodically, including the condition of vehicles, equipment, and materials being moved on- and off-site. Use the opportunity to inform the lead worker of any situation needing attention.

Temporarily suspend operations until the contractor can ensure compliance when:

• contract specifications aren't being met.
• repeated, avoidable infractions occur after the vendor has been informed that corrective actions are needed.

After Harvest:

Conduct post-harvest monitoring to identify new and/ or expanding infestations and treat as needed and funding allows to accomplish stand management objectives.

Record the location and report any known or discovered infestations by filling out the invasive species inventory form and email it to the Sue Burks, Division of Forestry invasive species program coordinator.