Maine Forest Service finds timber harvesters using best practices

AUGUSTA — The Maine Forest Service has released the results of a study on the use and effectiveness of forestry best management practices at timber harvests across the state from 2016-2017. Findings were positive as far as using the practices, which protect water quality.

The practices are voluntary measures and their use and effectiveness at timber harvesting operations is monitored regularly by the Maine Forest Service’s 10 district foresters. The results of these monitoring efforts are reported biannually.
Key findings of this year’s report:
* 73 percent of sites had BMPs applied appropriately on crossings and approaches, or crossings were avoided. Stream crossings and their associated approaches represent a high-risk area for sedimentation of surface waters. The forest service emphasizes planning harvests to minimize the number of crossings. When stream crossings are needed, properly applying BMP principles will minimize risk to the water body. * 83 percent of sites evaluated for sediment input found no sediment entered a water body. A major goal of the practices is keeping sediment from reaching water bodies. It is essential that the practices chosen effectively achieve this goal. The outcome is more important than which practice is used. * Best practices were effective at preventing sedimentation from entering water bodies. Sedimentation events were strongly correlated with inadequate application of best practices, or lack of maintenance of them. When best management practices were applied appropriately, the risk of sediment entering a water body was very low. * Wetlands either were avoided or effective practices were used to cross. Crossing wetlands risks compromising their natural hydrology if not done properly. Ninety-four percent of sample sites had no wetland crossing. The majority of wetlands that were crossed had best management practices used to limit rutting, indicating effective use of the practices.
“I am pleased to see the continuing trend of Maine’s forestry community taking seriously the protection of water quality,” said Maine Forest Service Director Doug Denico. “The results of our ongoing monitoring efforts reflect the value of the education and outreach work we do with our many partners.”
The full report is available on the Maine Forest Service website at www.maine.gov/dacf/mfs.
For more information please contact Maine Forest Service Water Resources Specialist, Tom Gilbert at (207) 287-1073 or thomas.gilbert@maine.gov