The main concern when removing infested trees is making sure no further damage is being created to the surrounding environment.  We utilize low impact removal techniques that focus on total forest health.  Skid lines are minimized by taking the chipper to the trees through use of tracked chippers.  Residual trees are left undamaged by practicing careful felling and skidding techniques.  Most infested trees are chipped and spread directly back onto the forest floor.  Chips help cover ground disturbances, reduce soil erosion and replenish needed nutrients to the forest floor. 

Winter is the ideal time to remove trees because the frozen ground helps reduce soil disturbances and makes access off road easier.  Winter is also beneficial because the trees enter a dormant state which leaves them less vulnerable to disturbances created during removal efforts.  Tree removal and or trimming should be minimized during the mid to late summer months.  Damaged trees release a stress signal that draws MPB into the area.  Trees releasing this signal during the beetle flight are highly susceptible to being fatally infested. 

The effectiveness of infested tree removal depends on many factors.  The infested trees must be removed prior to the MPB flight in mid summer.  The proximity to heavy infestations that are not removed can limit the effectiveness.  The greatest benefit of infested tree removal is realized when the majority of infested trees are removed in a large area.  Group participation is once again critical in maintaining a low amount of beetles in any given area.

There added benefits to infested tree removal beyond reducing the number of beetles in an area.  Many forests have gone unmanaged for the last 30 years and can greatly benefit from the thinning of infested trees.  Removing infested trees also reduces wildfire danger on the property.

Wildfire & Defensible Space

Forest Health Improvement