Trees…everyone has an opinion about them. All agree they are beautiful in their varying varieties in Oregon. How they are managed and the impact upon watersheds and the livelihood of communities divide many. The Oregon Forest Resources Institute does a good job explaining the various forces at play. Of course, there are those that see OFRI as a green talking shill for the lumber producers. Maybe, but the site does provide some useful information about the trees themselves and that is interesting, all enviro lip flapping, hand wringing aside.
“Clearcutting, one of several harvest options, is a method in which most of the trees are removed and the forest is regener- ated by planting new trees. Not every location is suitable for clearcutting.
OREGON’S WESTERN FORESTS
West of the Cascades, forest landowners often choose to clearcut because Douglas-fir seed- lings planted after harvest grow best in full sunlight. Oregon law requires that new trees be planted within two years after harvest, and that trees be left as buffers around streams and retained for wildlife habitat.
OREGON’S EASTERN FORESTS
In more extreme climates, the forest canopy helps protect fragile seedlings from heat and frost, so clearcutting is less common. Trees are usually harvested individually or in small groups.” OFRI
SwittersB & Exploring 