Montana Forests Undergo Major New Management Shift

New Montana Timber Management Plan Moves Forward

A major new timber management plan is officially moving forward in Montana.

Supporters say it could help create a more reliable timber supply while also addressing wildfire concerns.

U.S. Forest Service Approves Tri-Forest Sustained-Yield Agreement

Earlier this week, U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz signed off on the Tri-Forest Federal Sustained-Yield Unit, the first agreement of its kind in Montana in more than 70 years.

The plan brings together management of the Helena-Lewis and Clark, Custer-Gallatin, and Beaverhead-Deerlodge national forests, which together cover about 9.2 million acres.

As part of the agreement, the Forest Service has set a goal of harvesting between 350 million and 500 million board feet of timber over the next decade. Officials say the idea is to create a more predictable supply for Montana’s wood products industry while also reducing forest fuels that contribute to wildfires.

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Montana Timber Industry Backs Plan While Environmental Concerns Remain

The plan has already picked up support from parts of Montana’s timber industry. At the same time, not everyone is on board.

Some environmental groups have raised concerns that a stronger focus on timber production could pull attention and resources away from other priorities like recreation, wildlife habitat, and water quality.

No matter where you land on it, there’s no question this is a big move that will shape how some of Montana’s largest national forests are managed for years to come.

Source: Montana Standard