Reward offered in timber theft probe
Photo courtesy of Bureau of Land Management The Coeur d’Alene office of the Bureau of Land Management continues to seek information on a timber theft case that occurred near Pinehurst. Some trees were illegally cut and left behind, creating a hazard.
PINEHURST — The Bureau of Land Management continues to seek information in one of the worst cases of timber theft the Coeur d'Alene Field Office has seen.
Several green Douglas fir trees on public land were illegally cut and removed in the vicinity of the West Fork of Pine Creek and the Jackass Creek Bridge south of Pinehurst.
Other trees were also cut but left leaning, creating a public safety hazard.
Officials believe the incident occurred during the week of Nov. 11.
"No one has been apprehended, but tips continue to be investigated," said Kurt Pavlat, BLM's Coeur d'Alene manager.
The BLM estimates the total value of timber lost is more than $20,000.
"This is one of the worst and most blatant green tree firewood thefts our forestry staff has seen," Pavlat said.
In addition, natural resources were damaged by trees being cut in riparian areas or dragged across fish-bearing streams.
Officials believe the trees that were removed have been sold commercially as firewood.
Timber theft has been an issue in the area for several years, Pavlat said.
Removal of live trees without authorization is considered timber theft.
The BLM is offering a $2,500 reward for information that leads to the successful prosecution of the person or group responsible. Anyone with information is urged to call BLM Officer Shane Nalen at 208-769-5005.
BLM and the Shoshone County Sheriff's Office are collaborating on the case.
Firewood cutting permits are available at all BLM or USDA Forest Service offices in North Idaho for $5 per cord, with a minimum two-cord purchase. For questions about how to obtain a permit, call 208-769-5000.