Back in 2012, I worked my last season with the Forest Service, on the Amador Ranger District of the Eldorado National Forest. In particular, I led the crew in marking the cut trees in this overcrowded unit.
The above picture shows the partially logged unit, as well as the sizes of logs thinned.
This part of the same unit shows a finished portion, and two other log landings.
Here is a link to the larger view.
https://www.google.com/maps/@38.6022239,-120.3284245,1019a,35y,90h/data=!3m1!1e3?hl=en
There are also other completed cutting units in the area, which I worked in. Most of those were also cut in 2018, six years after they were marked. The existing plantations were cut back in the 80’s. At least one new goshawk nest was found, and the cutting unit was dropped.
Here is another interesting view to compare and contrast. Even though I marked a lot of trees in this unit, some foresters might say the residual stand is still too crowded. We were teaching a crew of newbies, and they are always too conservative in their marking. Also of interest is the lack of ground cover in the cutting unit, due to canopy closure, before the logging.
https://www.google.com/maps/@38.6021133,-120.3095941,592a,35y,270h/data=!3m1!1e3?hl=en
Thanks, Larry, sometimes a picture is worth more than 1,000 words!
Fascinating read, Larry! Your insights into the Sierra Nevada logging practices offer a unique window into forest management and its intricacies. It’s intriguing to see how the landscape transforms over the years, especially with the thoughtful approach to sustainability and wildlife protection, like the discovery and preservation of the goshawk nest. Looking forward to more of your experiences and observations from the field! Keep up the great work!