Changes to the District Forest

If you have recently driven by the Sid Emery Demo Forest on Brock Road you will have noticed a few changes. We have just finished a managed harvest using modern logging equipment on the property. This harvest is part of a forest management plan designed by Erik Grove of Southern Maine Forestry Services & the District Forestry committee. The original managment plan was funded through a Project Canopy grant & calls for several different types of harvest techniques to help create a working forest. Landowners can walk the trails & can see how a particular type of harvest will look on the land.

We chose the modern, larger equipment harvest first because, if done right, the impact on the land is minimal & the harvest is efficient. This saves both the logger & landowner time & money.

Hardwood was removed for pulp & firewood releasing the understory of young pine that can now grow to maturity. We also had a load of red pine poles cut to thin out the planted stands.

We have also created a wildlife opening as part of the landing site. This 1 acre clearing will become prime habitat for game birds, rabbits, deer, moose & bear. The scrubby growth that will emerge in the spring will provide food & shelter. You can also expect blackberry bushes to sprout. Those seeds have been hanging out in the soil for decades just waiting for an opportunity to sprout & grow.

The Demo forest is open to non-motorized use. This is a day-use area so fires & camping are not allowed.
Hunters please be aware that many folks hike the trails, walk their dogs & ride horses on the Demo forest. We also have folks looking for geocaches on the property. Everyone needs to wear blaze orange during hunting season. Please take the time to put on a vest & hat so you can be seen.

We hope you visit the Demo Forest & enjoy the quiet trails. If you would like to voluteer to help us out in any way feel free to call the office at 201-324-0888 X 214 or email info@yorkswcd.org.