Project proposes to thin crowded trees

SANDPOINT — The Idaho Panhandle National Forests is seeking feedback on a proposal to thin stands of young, densely stocked trees across the Priest Lake, Bonners Ferry and Sandpoint ranger districts.

Forest managers want to thin up to 2,500 acres per year in identified units where densely stocked stands of young trees — younger than 25 years old— are too crowded for healthy growing conditions.

"The project addresses a critical need for young stand management and fuel treatments in areas where young regeneration has occurred following harvest or wildfire," a press release said.

If left unchecked, these stands will create a fire hazard while crowding out desirable species that need more space and sunlight, like western white pine, western larch and ponderosa pine, the release said.

The project would use only mechanical methods, like workers with chain saws or loppers, to fell trees less than 7 inches in diameter and pile them for burning or mastication.

No new roads would be constructed for the work and the project would produce no commercial products.

The comment period runs through May 25.

Info: Doug Nishek, douglas.nishek@usda.gov or 208- 267-6765.