Sustainable Logging

There are good reasons logging has a reputation for being one of the regions most destructive and insensitive land use practices. Logging is largely unregulated in the Southeast and devastating examples of poorly executed logging operations abound.  In fact It’s hard not to notice the damage poor logging practices have caused if you drive in any rural area. One need only read accounts of the early 20th Century struggle to save even a few acres of virgin Appalachian forest from large timber interests to forever remain distrustful of logging. Nonetheless, wood is a renewable resource that can be thoughtfully and sustainably harvested. When done correctly logging can not only generate immediate revenue and tax reductions, but can also improve property aesthetics, equity, habitat and timber quality.

Preparing for a Successful, Sustainable Logging Project

For those who accept the notion that logging can be carried out in a thoughtful and sustainable manner the question then becomes “how?” and “when?” to timber. The answer to these questions is simple - do your homework! Educate yourself via the internet or local library. Get a copy of Best Management Practices (BMP) guidelines appropriate to your state. Learn a little about silviculture as well as the timber industry. A little knowledge will go a long way to protecting you and your property from unscrupulous logging practices

A Licensed Forester is Crucial for Successful Logging

Find a licensed forester. It is no more advisable to directly hire a timber crew than build a house without a contractor. A forester can effectively evaluate your timber and secure the best available price. In addition, a forester can create a long-term management plan that affords significant property tax reductions. At V&V we offer complete guidance to our clients every step of the way. We have a licensed consulting forester with hundreds of successful havests under his belt and and a variety of accreditations including a seat on the North Carolina Forestry Association's Board of Directors.  He is also a Partner with North Carolina Association of Pro Loggers and a Continuing Education Instructor.  In addition he offers sophisticated planning tools, such as digital mapping and low altitude aerial photograhy, that allow us a degree of precision unavailable to other companies.

Get Everything in Writing

Get a legally binding contract so you know beforehand what timber is to be removed and what financial rewards to expect. Agree upon the conditions under which the property is to be left. For instance, is the slash (the crowns and unusable tree parts), to be left “as is,” wind-rowed, mulched or removed? If some form of trade is involved, such as timber for road construction, agree upon the road specifications beforehand in writing - access to the “back forty” is no access at all if the road has a twenty percent grade and no drainage features.  Make sure timber decks, loading areas and unimproved roads are to be left in good condition including appropriate grading and re-vegetation. 

The Roads Remain After the Logging is Finished

Road construction is usually the most enduring aspect of timbering. Well planned and constructed logging roads provide access and add value to your property. Poorly installed roads degrade property values, limit usage and damage sensitive habitats. Know where all timber access roads will be located beforehand. The practice of leaving access up to machine operators is a primary cause of property damage and environmental degradation.

Trust V & V Land Management for Sustainable Logging

At V&V we undertake logging operations with a sensitivity that acknowledges its checkered past. Our forester is not only licensed but is a board member of the North Carolina Forestry Association. Our sustainable logging partners are skilled, safe, precise and above all dedicated to the principle of treading lightly. We rely upon the latest GIS/GPS and mapping technology to assist us in planning harvests that is are not merely profitable but also accord with our client’s long term goals as well the region’s delicate ecology and sensitive watersheds. If you would like a timber evaluation, wish to discuss sustainable logging or see successfully completed jobs, just e-mail us or call. We are committed to educating our clients about sustainable timber management.