OUR GEM: Innovative land use, applying no-damage principles across ranching and forestry

In May of this year, we explored one rancher’s innovative approach to no-damage cattle ranching in the Coeur d’Alene basin. But Albert Walsh doesn’t limit his no-damage philosophy to cattle ranching; he applies it across various restoration, forestry and land use activities.

On his property in the Cataldo Slough area, Walsh has installed post-assisted debris structures to transform a former dry grass field into an area that slows runoff, holds water longer into the dry season and acts as a nutrient filter before the runoff reenters connected waters. 

“I enjoy experimenting with different ecological practices,” Walsh says. “Sometimes it’s two steps forward, one step back, but it’s fun to see what works and what doesn’t. What succeeds in one place might not work in another.” 

When thinning woods, Walsh prefers the “chop and drop” method over the traditional pile and burn technique. This method leaves nutrients in the soil for future plants and trees and provides cover and shade for small critters. Walsh explains that in a moist environment like his, the biomass left on the forest floor decomposes within a couple of years, becoming less noticeable while enriching the ecosystem. 

“Chop and drop” involves cutting vegetation and scattering it or leaving it where it falls, particularly dead organic matter such as lower tree limbs or smaller dead trees. This material, once in contact with the soil, decomposes, returning nutrients and carbon to the soil and trees. It also holds water and creates habitat. Dead branches hanging in the air, on the other hand, remain as potential ladder fuel for fires and may take years to decompose. 

After removing obvious dead material, Walsh thins live trees to allow more light to reach the forest floor. This promotes the growth of understory vegetation, which is not only beneficial for his cattle but also enhances habitat diversity for other forest creatures. Thinned forests with organic matter and sunlight on the floor encourage plant growth, helping to hold the soil in place. 

Walsh notes that the presence of his cattle in the woods further accelerates decomposition. Their hooves break branches and press organic material into the ground. He finds satisfaction in hearing the snap of branches as his cows enter a recently thinned area. 

Though the “chop and drop” method can initially appear messy, within a few years, the forest floor returns to a natural state. Snow compacts the organic matter, while leaves and needles decompose and grasses and small brush begin to grow, camouflaging the larger pieces of wood and speeding up decomposition. 

However, Walsh acknowledges that “chop and drop” might not be suitable for all environments, particularly in drier climates where it could increase fire risk. He emphasizes that forestry management, like any form of ecosystem management, requires a variety of tools and techniques. The right approach depends on specific goals and the environment. 

For example, Walsh manages the woods immediately around his home differently from those farther away or in different climates. He carefully weighs the pros and cons of burning, chipping, scattering and grazing, always with the goal of making his woods healthier in the long term while meeting short-term needs. 

Walsh encourages others to consult with local Natural Resources Conservation Service offices, which offer cost-share programs to assist with woodland thinning. Shoshone County also provides funds through a fire mitigation program to help thin woods for fire suppression. 

Ultimately, Walsh’s no-damage approach to land management reflects a deep understanding of the delicate balance required to maintain healthy ecosystems. By experimenting with practices like “chop and drop,” he is working towards a sustainable model of forestry and ranching that benefits both the land and the creatures that inhabit it.

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Jade Clinkenbeard is a watershed analyst with the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality.

The Our Gem Coeur d’Alene Lake Collaborative is a team of committed and passionate professionals working to preserve lake health and protect water quality by promoting community awareness of local water resources through education, outreach and stewardship. Our Gem includes local experts from the University of Idaho - Idaho Water Resources Research Institute, Coeur d’Alene Tribe, Idaho Department of Environmental Quality, the Basin Environmental Improvement Project Commission, Kootenai Environmental Alliance.