Another logging question

[WPC]

As a follow-up to SharpEyeGirl's question about logging, I am also curious about the effects of logging that will begin soon on the farm I hunt. In meeting with the logger, he explained that the timber is at least ten years shy of being ready for a select cut. In order for the process to be worthwhile he is also going to cut for pulp wood which, as I understand, means all undesirables (double trunks, leaners, etc.) and essentially the entire understory. He made the comment that our woods would be "beautiful" which concerns me as I am picturing completely open timber in the very near future. I have had experience with both clear cuts and select cuts and understand the pros and cons of both, however; I am now seeing a farm already lacking in diversity as being nothing but bean fields and completely open (no browse or cover) hardwood ridges and draws. I hope someone can put my mind at ease. Thanks for any help.

 

[RKenney]

Give it time. There will be good cover. Even in between the time
you might have to wait, spring and summer time growth will
produce unbelievable amounts of vegetation growth.

Deer have ways of hiding and timber is not one of them. Also, it
doesn't take as much cover as many hunters think. I guess I
shouldn't say deer can't hide in timber, because they can. The
point is, deer (especially mature deer) are kind of like giant
rabbits.

 

[Radar]

Give it time , there will be plenty of browse

 

[BSK]

What the logger is doing is called Timber Stand Improvement. It will greatly increase the quality of the timber in future years and will create the same type of cover--although more of it--as a select cut. Radar's above picture is a perfect example.

 

[WPC]

Thanks for the responses...I feel better.