Issuu

AFTER THE BURN

Schmitz Timber Management Silverton, OR

PAYING ATTENTION AND PLAYING BY THE RULES Darrell Jacobs Trucking Klamath Falls, OR

MODERN FORESTRY Pearson Logging Priest River, Idaho

ON THE COVER A photo of Darrell Jacobs Trucking's Caterpillar 320D in action.

After the Burn

September/October 2021 Vol. 46 No. 09-10

Modern Forestry 6

After the Burn

Modern Forestry

Paying Attention and Playing by the Rules

In one spark, the Schmitz Timber Management Inc. lost a log loader and changed its focus to salvaging burned timber. Pearson Logging specializes in forest treatments aimed at enhancing forest health and resilience.

Darrell Jacobs Trucking took on a project that resulted in 2020 Operator of the Year.

Equipment Maintenance

Tech Review

Firebreak Column

Guest Column

Tips on creating a program to save money and downtime. A look at chainsaws, bars and accessories. Congress to finally step-up firefighting compensation. Clock is ticking on disastrous spotted owl policy.

DEPARTMENTS

Page 4..........................................................In the News Page 22..................................................Machinery Row Page 32............................................. Association News Page 36....................................................New Products Page 37.............. Advertiser’s Index/Classified Section Page 37...................................................... Subscription

Equipment Maintenance

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 — www.forestnet.com

6 Paying Attention and Playing by the Rules

14 3

the litter and the soil. “Although the models show that thinning alone moderates fire behavior for a number of years, prescribed fire is still a key tool for meeting fuel reduction and fire management objectives in the ponderosa pine forests of the southern Blue Mountains and elsewhere,” Johnston said. “Prescribed fire will extend the longevity of what the mechanical thinning accomplished when the conifers regenerate significantly and those surface fuels start to rise above desired thresholds.”

Study Finds 2020 Labor Day Fires Significantly Impacted Oregon’s Forest Sector

A report commissioned by the Oregon Forest Resources Institute (OFRI) concluded that Oregon’s forest-dependent businesses and industries suffered an estimated $5.9 billion in economic losses as a result of the Labor Day wildfires that one year ago burned more than a million acres across the western part of the state. The 104-page study looked at the economic impacts of last year’s Labor Day fires on Oregon’s forest sector, which ranged from lost timber and logging equipment to forest restoration efforts made more difficult by a shortage of tree seedlings. The Labor Day 2020 Fires: Economic Impacts to Oregon’s Forest Sector study report can be downloaded at https://oregonforests.org/ pub/2020-labor-day-fires-economic-impacts. The report looks at the various ways forest landowners and businesses — such as logging companies and sawmills — were affected by last year’s fires, finding that the Labor Day wildfires had substantial impacts on the sector and will continue to impact Oregon’s timber supply, forest-related employment, and other economic factors well into the future.

OSU Forest Fire Behavior Study Reports Findings

– and used computer modeling to predict the behavior of future fires. The collaboration included his Oregon State College of Forestry colleagues Julia Olszewski, Becky Miller, and Micah Schmidt, in addition to Lisa Ellsworth of the OSU College of Agricultural Sciences and Michael Vernon of Blue Mountains Forest Partners. “Our work shows that mechanical thinning can moderate fire behavior even in the absence of prescribed fire,” Johnston said. “That’s good news since prescribed fire on national forests has remained flat over the last 20 years because of shortfalls in U.S. Forest Service capacity, a risk-averse agency culture, and regulatory constraints on smoke.” Fuels built up for a year or two after thinning and then declined, while litter and duff declined dramatically as a result of thinning, he said. Forest litter refers to any non-living organic matter that is freshly fallen or only slightly decomposed; duff is the layer of decayed and decaying organic matter between

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An Oregon State University (OSU) research study has revealed that thinning moderates forest fire behavior, even without prescribed burns – for a while. Mechanical thinning alone can calm the intensity of future wildfires for many years, and prescribed burns lengthen thinning’s effectiveness, according to the OSU research that involved a seasonally dry ponderosa pine forest in northeastern Oregon. Findings of the study, led by OSU research associate James Johnston and published in Forest Ecology and Management, are important because reducing accumulated fuels on federal forestland has been a congressional priority for nearly two decades; research such as this helps determine which techniques work. Johnston’s team looked at years of data for multiple forest parcels – mechanically thinned stands and unthinned control stands

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Advertising created by TimberWest Publications, LLC is the sole property of TimberWest Publications, LLC and may not be copied or reproduced without the express written permission of the publisher. PUBLISHER’S EDITORIAL STATEMENT: TimberWest reports on the logging and lumber segment of the forest industry in the Western United States with emphasis on the states of AK, WA, OR, ID, MT and CA, providing current information on timber harvesting techniques, sawmill operations, news, legislation, events, people and products pertinent to this market. TIMBERWEST (USPS #024858) is published bi-monthly (Jan/Feb, Mar/Apr, May/Jun, Jul/Aug, Sept/Oct, Nov/Dec) by TimberWest Publications, LLC, 300 Admiral Way, Suite 105, Edmonds, WA, 98020. Periodicals postage paid at Edmonds, WA and at additional mailing offices. Copyright 2021. All rights reserved. Subscription rates to qualified subscribers are Free and all non-qualified subscriptions in U.S. are $22 per year payable in advance. Canada $35 (U.S.). Other $60 (U.S.). Single copies paid in advance $4. Company affiliation, title, date and signature must appear on subscription forms. Publisher reserves the right to refuse non-industry subscriptions and advertising. All other advertising is accepted at the discretion of the publisher. Publisher does not assume any responsibility for the contents of any advertisement and all representations or warranties made in such advertising are those of the advertiser and not of the publisher. Back issues, if available, $4 each. Directory and Calendar issue $10 each. Canadian Publication Mail Product Sales Agreement #40740074. Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to P.O. Box 86670 Stn. Main, North Vancouver, BC V7L 4L2 Printed in Canada at Horseshoe Press Inc. POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to TimberWest, P.O. Box 610, Edmonds, WA, 98020-0610

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 — www.forestnet.com

Tahoe Fund Supports New Technology to Assist with Wildfire Mitigation

SouthTahoeNOW.com reported that the Tahoe Fund announced a grant from its Smartest Forest Fund to a first-of-its-kind digital tool called Land Tender to decrease the time it takes to plan and execute projects that protect communities and forests — from years down to months. This tool would provide land managers in the Tahoe Basin with the high-resolution data and modeling they need to make more agile and informed decisions. Land Tender is being developed for the Tahoe Basin in collaboration with the California Tahoe Conservancy, Basin land managers, fire districts, scientists, local NGOs, and other stakeholders to update Lake Tahoe’s community wildfire protection and forest health plan for the entirety of the lake’s 500-square-mile watershed basin. This work will include thinning hazardous and overgrown timber, clearing fuels from roadsides, and conducting prescribed burns.

A LONG WAY

TOGETHER

Manchin, Barrasso Announce Bill to Revegetate Forests After Devastating Fires

The Hill reported that Sens. Joe Manchin (D-W.V.) and John Barrasso (R-Wyo) introduced the America’s Revegetation and Carbon Sequestration (ARCS) Act of 2021, with Sens. Roger Marshall (R-Kansas) and Angus King (I-Maine). The bill would establish a national revegetation plan under the umbrella of the Interior Department and the Forest Service, which would determine the number of acres of federal land requiring revegetation. The Interior Secretary would be required to publish a report detailing the amount of land and where it is located. The bill would also require Interior and the Forest Service to establish a revegetation task force for each region of the U.S. within 18 months. Each regional task force would develop a region-specific revegetation plan in the six months following their establishment. It would also establish a pilot program to revegetate abandoned mine sites on federal, state, and tribal land for eight years, after which Interior would be required to submit a report outlining its results.

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Collapse of Second Phase of Four Forest Restoration Initiative (4FRI)

In September the National Forest Service cancelled a bidding process that would allow the Four Forest Initiative (4FRI) to move ahead. Portions of the USDA release read as follows: “Overall, the Government’s conclusion is that the requirements for meeting the restoration objectives (as currently defined in the RFP) are not reasonably aligned to industry needs. In addition, significant financial and investment risks remain which ultimately represents a performance risk to the Government. It is in the best interest of the Government to thoroughly re-assess the requirement so that any new solicitation issued would better address all risks to offerors and the Government, including financial and investment risks. Reassessment may include re-consideration of a variety of specific government requirements such as: • Economic Price Adjustment requirements; • Acreage and volume of material to be offered; • Biomass treatment requirements; • Road maintenance requirements; and • Cancellation ceiling. We are deeply invested and our intention is to work with our partners together on a new proposal as soon as possible. Our next step is to regroup with our partners, stakeholders, industry, and elected officials to discuss what we’ve all learned and how we can move forward to ensure success when implementing future contracts and agreements.”

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TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 — www.forestnet.com

ContractorProfile

After the Burn

Schmitz Timber Management, Silverton, Oregon By Jan Jackson

The Sale

reg Schmitz, third-generation logger and President

and CEO of Schmitz Timber Management Inc. in Silverton, Oregon, thought he’d seen it all in his forty-plus years in the woods. However, the wildfires that started sweeping through the Santiam Canyon early on September 8, 2020, proved him wrong. As a result of those fires, more than one million acres of Oregon’s timber burned— and 400,000 of those acres were in the area where Greg goes to work every day. In one spark, he lost a log loader, needed to buy a new road builder, and he changed his focus to salvaging fire- ravaged timber for his clients. “I had in mind to buy a new road builder anyway but backed off when the uncertainty around the Covid thing started,” Greg said. “About the time I decided to go forward with it the second time, the fires hit, and I had to back off again. When it came to building and rocking road in the burn, I couldn’t wait any longer.”

One of the first people Greg called was Curtis Ward, Link-Belt sales rep for Marion, Tillamook, Yamhill, and parts of Polk

County, who has worked with Greg for some 30-years. Since he was already using LinkBelt’s 4640 Log Loader, 4040 Processer, 350X2 Shovel, and a 290X2 Processor, it was

The Ground

The Santiam Canyon Fire (originally called the Beachie Creek Fire) wiped out the towns of Detroit, Gates, Mill City, and Idanha, and burned the underbrush, which left the steep terrain in the salvage area a dangerous place for the men to work. The Link-Belt 4040 already comes outfitted with extra guarding, higher undercarriage, and a forestry cab specifically for road building in the woods, but Greg went further yet. Because he wanted to fall timber with it, he added additional plumbing to run the head. “I figured I’d be working in the burn at least two more years, so I had them add single bar tracks with extension on the bars so we could operate on steep terrain,” Greg said. “I wanted to run my felling head, heel rack and grapples, and my bucket thumb and coupler, so we plumbed the machine to accept all of those attachments. In addition, they put single bar grousers on it so we could get around better.” 6

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 — www.forestnet.com

Greg Schmitz, President and CEO Schmitz Timber Management, Silverton, Oregon.

ContractorProfile

an easy decision to add a second Link-Belt 4040 Road Builder that he could modify to fit his needs. “We had Greg back up and running pretty quickly, because Triad [Triad Machinery Inc. Portland, Oregon] does a really good job of keeping machines in stock and men in the shop to make modifications,” Curt said. “We have a constant supply of forestry machines on order and dedicated guys in the shop that don’t do anything else but finish the assembly and build the 40-series. They totally understand the Waratah engine, and they are good at trouble shooting.” Curt adds, “Replacing [Greg’s] burned log loader with a new Link-Belt 4640 was an easy decision for him because a log loader is a log loader. But he needed a multi-purpose machine that had extra traction to work on burned-over ground in the salvage area, so the road builder was a different story. We modified his Link-Belt 4040 Excavator so much that we laughingly called it his Swiss Army Knife of sorts.”

It’s All in the Name

The Link-Belt company, which started in the mid-1800s in the wheat fields of Iowa, is rooted in problem-solving. In those days, the farmers had to wait sometimes days for even the simplest repairs to their steam-powered harvesters because when one section of the belt wore out or broke, the whole chain had to be replaced or taken back to a metal shop for lengthy repair. A young farm implement dealer by the name of William Dana Ewart proposed that a drive chain could be constructed of several detachable links. When wear and tear caused one piece or link to break, the defective section of the chain could easily be replaced right in the field. Ewart called his product link belt — and the brand name and reputation for providing solutions to real workplace problems was born. Ewart patented the Link-Belt chain in 1874. Today, the company sells products all over the world.

Link-Belt processor salvaging burned timber from the Beachie Fire.

(continued on page 8) TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 — www.forestnet.com

ContractorProfile (continued from page 7)

Tapping Technology

While Greg grew up hearing how his grandfather used horses for logging and commercial wood-cutting, he uses the latest equipment, drone technology, and GPS apps on his smartphone. “I’m fortunate to have had my drone operation in place before the fires, because stringing the lines we need to carry the logs down from the steep mountainsides would have been extremely difficult and dangerous without it. The steep terrain, poor roads, and small landing areas on the job around Detroit Lake have been particularly challenging, and I’ve had to spend a lot of time there. In the burn areas, all of our underbrush and stuff like that is gone so you’ve got a lot more rolling objects. There’s nothing for the men to hold on to for traction or anything like that. It’s really a different environment out there for cable logging, so it has just made the drone that much more important. We definitely weren’t the first people, but yeah, the drone to me was the biggest no-brainer.” The terrain was another reason for using the 4040 Excavator. “One of the factors

Pete Perrine, 26-year Schmitz Timber Management employee, operating the Link-Belt 4040. Simple to operate, function triggers and button controls are in the handles. are equipped with triggers and buttons to control the functions. for choosing the 4040-road builder was the large fuel tank is positioned to help give it stability. That machine is famous for fuel efficiency anyway, and they have positioned it to give the stability I need for the rugged territory I work in.” The FutureHoping to harvest the burn logs quickly to get the best quality of lumber and plywood possible, Greg thinks most people in the area are shooting to get most of it done in a year. “I’m hearing two years on a lot of it, though I don’t think the younger timber is going to last that long,” Greg said. “That’s really accelerating the salvage operations, I believe. I mean, not only are they able to salvage their trees, but at least so far, they’re also getting pretty good money for it. The mills are telling me that they’re sending out the finished product as fast as they can get the logs in, so it doesn’t appear that the market’s flooded at all – yet!” Two years ago, when asked what his favorite part of the job was, Greg quickly said it was the challenge of figuring out how to do a new job, how much it will cost to log, negotiating with the timber owner, and then making sure he has the right equipment and people available at the right time. Right now, his favorite part of the job is being challenged.

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 — www.forestnet.com

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ContractorProfile John Deere 648E navigating in thinned woodlands.

Modern Forestry By Jack Petree

ike Pearson has owned and operated Pearson Logging LLC out of Priest River, Idaho, since its founding in 2007. Mike’s company occupies an important, and likely to become even more important niche in the modern world of forestry:

specialization in forest treatments, medium to large in size, aimed at enhancing forest health and resilience. Mike says the company does very little clearcutting in the course of everyday work. Instead, they concentrate on thinning and other projects designed to enhance the longterm wellbeing of those forests, often in close coordination with consulting foresters.

Mike points out that the forests of northeast Washington, northern Idaho, and western Montana are in increasingly poor condition, and no two harvests are alike. As a result, he runs an equipment mix designed to provide the flexibility he needs to tackle the precision work of reestablishing the health of a compromised forest — a mission he is often called on to accomplish.

Pearson is able to get six plus loads per day.

Pearson Logging Priest River, Idaho

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 — www.forestnet.com

ContractorProfile Understanding the Client

According to Mike, he lived on a cattle farm when he was young, which meant that pasture clearing and other chores more related to farming were often the priority rather than forest health. “I found myself fascinated with chainsaws,” he laughs, “so it seemed natural to end up in the woods.” That early experience, Mike contends, allows him a special insight into the close connection farmers, ranchers, and other forest landowners have with the land they work, and his personal business philosophy reflects that understanding. “When I work on a piece of land, I try to put myself in the landowner’s shoes, to understand what that owner wants and, most importantly, when I’ve done my job, to leave the land the way I would want it to be left if I owned that land myself.” Attention to job quality, Mike puts forward, is a major reason he is often called back, sometimes years later, to treat additional lands an owner might want to enhance for any of a variety of reasons including treatments aimed at reductions in the destructive nature of catastrophic fires.

The Value of Word of Mouth

Another “proof ” of the quality Mike insists on when he treats a tract of land is the

John Deere skidder working alongside the Timbco processor. trust forestry consultants have placed in him throughout his career. According to Mike, a significant part of his work comes to him as the result of recommendations — and repeat recommendations — by those forest health professionals. Today, more landowners are becoming

concerned with the health of their forests than was the case decades ago, Mike says. Well qualified forestry consultants, working closely with treatment professionals like Pearson Logging, can help a landowner

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 — www.forestnet.com

(continued on page 12)

ContractorProfile (continued from page 11)

Precision work at a tight landing, with John Deere 648E skidder, Timbco 445XL and Caterpillar D4.

optimize the health and the future value of the forest while still recovering optimum immediate value from any timber removed as part of the treatment. “It’s really important when I work with a consulting forester to fully understand what that forester is trying to accomplish on behalf of the landowner,” Mike continues. “The more feedback we have as we begin to work, the more likely we will, together, achieve the successful outcome the landowner wants.” Mike points out that foresters base their harvest plans on a combination of the forest condition and the goals a landowner has set for the treatment. Importantly, Mike says, “Consultants understand the regulations anyone working in the forest has to live by.” It is not unusual, he says, for a landowner to want to harvest trees they “…aren’t allowed to touch.” Working to a plan developed by a forester in consultation with the landowner assures a legal harvest done to the highest standards of the industry. Consulting foresters and logging companies must also work together to achieve the highest return possible on timber that is often substandard. Mike says landowners are not always aware of that problem.

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 — www.forestnet.com

ContractorProfile “Because we’re often thinning for forest health, we are taking out a lot of dying trees, often trees that should have been harvested 40 or 50 years ago. We do a lot of sorts based on the quality of the logs, the price of timber, and the mills available to take the wood in order to ensure the owner of the timber gets as much return as possible.” Mike also takes on work for landowners who contact him directly. “A landowner coming to me directly is treated with the same care and attention I give to a consulting forester,” he says. “The work begins before a single tree is cut. I work closely with the owner to determine his or her goals for the land and then, as I do on every job, complete the job in the same way I would complete the job if I owned the land myself.” Pearson Logging works a typical job with Mike, two Pearson employees, and two independent contractors taking on jobs in the 200 – 250,000 foot range and up and averaging about six loads a day. Mike adds, “We can, and do, take on much larger jobs. There aren’t many harvests we can’t work.”

A Range of Equipment

To accomplish the jobs coming its way, Pearson Logging uses an eclectic range of equipment allowing the firm a great deal of flexibility — a necessity, Mike says, given the range of terrain and the broadly differing types of harvest his company is called upon to engage in. A Kobelco 200 series log loader, a Timbco 445 XL processor, and a John Deere 648 E skidder are the heart of the harvesting operation, supported by a Caterpillar D4 high track slinger dozer and a Link-Belt 2366 excavator. Logs are hauled to various mills in the area aboard a 1986 Peterbilt log truck, while the inevitable need to transport rock, gravel, tree parts, and other material is handled using an 88 Kenmore dump truck. Equipment transport and other duties are accomplished using the company’s Trailmax 54 T tilt deck trailer. “That variety of equipment lets us address nearly any need a customer might have,” Mike puts forward.

hundred mile radius of Pearson’s Priest River headquarters in the Idaho panhandle. All that sorting means extra work, but it also means more value realized for the client. Mike expects that demand for the niche he fills in the logging world will do nothing but expand. “The weather has definitely changed over the years,” he comments. “And more landowners today are interested in forest health and coming to realize their own forests are being impacted by drought and bugs and other issues. Not to mention people are seeing the news about forest fires

and all the damage they can do.” When asked what’s important for a smaller logging operation like his in today’s world, Mike reiterated: assemble a good crew, work closely with the people you are doing business with to make sure you understand what their goals for a particular job might be, and above all, do your job as though you are working on your own land. “If you treat the customer in the same way you would want to be treated, you can gain a lot of personal satisfaction out of this work.”

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Handling a Wide Variety of Wood

The variety of timber harvested by Pearson Logging, coupled with the large number of sorts bucked up to help assure optimum value, means dealing with most of the mills within hauling range of the job; small logs might go to a mill specializing in small logs, with larger logs sorted for another mill. Some wood is best for chipping, and some trees have value as poles. Species mix is also a consideration with red fir, lodgepole pine, larch, and ponderosa pine predominant in the area within a

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TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 — www.forestnet.com

ContractorProfile

Paying Attention and Playing by the Rules

Darrell Jacobs, owner of Darrell Jacobs Trucking.

By Lindsay Mohlere

n mid 2019, Darrell Jacobs, owner of Darrell Jacobs Trucking out of Klamath Falls, Oregon, went looking for work for his logging company. The timber market was down, and logging was slow. “I’m a pretty small outfit and, honestly, this area is awful tough for work,” says Darryl. One of the difficulties he finds is that many timber companies already have relationships with other outfits. “I mean, they got their certain people, and that’s that,” says Darrell. “I’m always kind of on the outside looking, scrambling. I just absolutely could not pick anything up.” Fortunately, Darrell ended up connecting with ODF stewardship forester Jason Pettigrew and Leigh Ann Vradenburg from the Klamath Water Partnership. Vradenburg is the coordinator of the Chiloquin Community Forest and Fire Project (CCFFP), which is a partnership 14

effort between private landowners, federal and state agencies, and others. The purpose of the project is to achieve fire resistance, fire response, forest health, wildlife habitat, and grazing objectives on private lands on a landscape-level scale, across boundaries with Fremont-Winema National Forest. As of 2020, the partnership has acquired nearly $4 million in grant funds to complete forest treatments on private property to reduce the risk of wildfire.

Meeting Landowner Challenges Earns Award

ODF and CCFFP selected Darrell’s outfit to take on a contract to work in the Copperfield Draw area of Klamath county. As a result of his work on the project, ODF awarded Darrell Jacobs Trucking Inc. the prestigious 2020 Operator of the Year for Eastern Oregon. In particular, the company was recognized

for working with multiple small woodland owners on the forest health improvement and fuels reduction project. ODF based the award on the company’s efforts to consistently apply best management practices to safeguard forest resources. According to the award, Darrell Jacobs Trucking “protected the wet and riparian areas, was thoughtful in the operational layout to protect soils, reduced smoke emissions through biomass utilization, enhanced mule deer habitat through forage manipulation, and went above and beyond to engage with landowners, respect their wishes, and keep them informed.” The whole project covers 180,000 acres, of which 38,000 acres is private land. More than 60 percent is forested. The entire area is at high risk for wildland fire as identified in the Chiloquin Community and Klamath County Wildfire Protection Plans.

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 — www.forestnet.com

(continued on page 16)

ContractorProfile

Top: Caterpillar 320D at work on the landing. Above: The amazing crew of Darrell Jacobs Trucking. TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 — www.forestnet.com

ContractorProfile

Darrell's company received the 2020 Operator of the Year award on a project that covered 180,000 acres, of which 38,000 acres is private land. More than 60 percent is forested and the entire area is at high risk for wildland fire. (continued from page 14) “One of the biggest challenges on this project is you’re basically working in someone’s yard,” says Darrell. “They might have 30, 40 acres, but that’s their yard. You go talk to them and discuss what you’re doing. We’re there to try and get everything pretty well lined out before we get going on the project. Jason Pettigrew and Leigh Ann had a lot of the really hard stuff, honestly, worked out on their end.”

Darrell found didn’t working around fences and powerlines challenging. “I was just trying to keep everyone happy.”

Trucking to Logging — an Evolution

It seems Darrell Jacobs was destined to be a logger. At an early age, he was introduced to heavy equipment, operating a Caterpillar and helping his dad work piling contracts. “I started at the age of 12,” says Darrell. “My dad had piling contracts, and I ran CAT all summer long. I’ve always been good with

equipment. That was always my niche. A little bit of “mechanizing” and decent with equipment.” After he graduated from high school in 1991, Darrell set out on his own when his parents bought him a truck — a 1969 A-Model Kenworth. In 1995 he bought a brand new Peterbilt, and in 2000, he started expanding his company. “I bought a new Kenworth and kept that Peterbilt because a

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 — www.forestnet.com

(continued on page 18)

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ContractorProfile (continued from page 16) high school buddy of mine wanted to start driving. I taught him to drive, and he went to work for me. And then we just kind of kept expanding from there.” Darrell explained that in 2000, he had the opportunity to go ripping for a Denver company with a CAT for replanting. At that point, he bought a 7G CAT and went to work. “I just kind of dabbled with that, and then in, what was it? ‘07... ‘08, something like that, when everything crashed, all the equipment was pretty cheap. I was talking to a sawmill, and they put me on. So I bought some equipment and went logging,” he said. Darrell currently runs a fully mechanized operation and employs a crew of 10, which includes four truck drivers.

Above: Darrell uses two Link-Belts — this 240 and a 4040 processor. Below: Hauling the Caterpillar 535D skidder.

Reinvesting for Success

Darrell admits he doesn’t have a particular equipment philosophy but favors keeping his iron updated because less downtime means more uptime. “I’ve got some newer, pretty nice iron,” he said. “I invest a lot back into my equipment, just trying to keep updated because I’ve watched people run iron until it just dies.” To date, Darrell fields a 2019 CAT 535D skidder, alongside a 2015 CAT 535D skidder. His 4040 Link-Belt processor is a 2017 model equipped with a 623 Waratah head. A Komatsu 450 and a 425D, paired with Quadco heads, handle the cutting. His shovels include a CAT 320 and a Link-Belt 240. True to his roots, Darrell runs four trucks – one Peterbilt, three Kenworth. He says that there’s nothing wrong with Peterbilt, but after he bought the first one in 1995, “I just didn’t love it as much as I did the Kenworth.” Equipment is only part of the picture. “I got really nice equipment, but I got fantastic guys. I mean, my core guys are just excellent. They’ve been with me for a long

COMMON PURPOSE IN UNCOMMON TIMES

time. Gary Lightly, my main guy, has been with me since I started logging. I’ve got four truck drivers. I have two Timbco operators. I’ve got two skidder operators, and then I got Gary, a processor operator.” He also has another shovel operator. Darrell says he and his crew do most of the maintenance work but farm out the big stuff. “We do what we can, which is a pretty good chunk of it. But then a friend

of mine, Kevin Bennett, owner of Bennett Diesel Repair, does the rest. I got a shop and everything, so we do a lot of it, but like I say, he comes in for the big stuff.” His equipment and his people contributed to his successful completion of the project that earned the ODF Eastern Oregon Operator of the Year award, but in the end, Darrell says, “The big goal is keeping all the landowners satisfied and happy.” TW

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TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 — www.forestnet.com

ContractorProfile

Equipment Maintenance

n today’s forestry market, you

can’t afford not to have a structured maintenance program. With complex variables to face in the forests, including the weather, labor, trucking, and changing quotas, you need to ensure your machines are available and up-to-date when needed in order to remain competitive. A well-planned maintenance program can help reduce unexpected downtime and increase the likelihood of meeting schedules and production levels. To help loggers stay ahead of the curve, here are a few best practices and reminders for both owners and operators to maximize their output and keep equipment up and running.

Daily Routines

The first step for any operator, and a

recommended best practice, is to begin each day by conducting daily and regular maintenance check-ins. Referencing the owner’s manuals for the best routine scans for the machine can enhance both the owner and operator experience. Owner’s manuals are great guides to clearly outline the expected daily and hourly interval maintenance checkups that you should follow. Each day, it is important to perform regular maintenance to ensure your machine is up to the task. Starting with a machine walkaround, look for any visible wear and tear to the machine. Then conduct a quick check of fluids as part of your pre-start inspection, checking on the engine oil and coolant, hydraulic oil, transmission oil, and washer fluids. Operators should review pins and bushings, hoses, and fittings, and identify any leaks

that may need repair. Hydraulic hoses and belts should also be checked for wear and tear and be replaced if damaged. Next, look at the wheels and tracks for wear to identify any signs of damage or sag before starting work for the day, paying close attention to the tire pressure ensuring they are properly inflated and ready for the terrain ahead. Check the chains and tracks and change any that may be damaged or loose. Staying on top of daily maintenance tasks like these can help keep your machine in optimal shape.

Interval Maintenance

Every now and then, your machine requires a more extensive health check. As your equipment hits new milestones, a maintenance checklist can become longer

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 — www.forestnet.com

ContractorProfile and longer, making it even more important to check the owner’s manual to ensure all necessary maintenance has been performed. As always, the owner’s manual will clearly outline the recommended maintenance and procedures needed based on the hours and workloads, making it easy to keep track. The owner’s manual will also provide guidance on lubrication and maintenance, outlining compatible fluids and filters, specifications, and recommended inspections, helping to ensure you are using the right materials for your machine to help boost performance and uptime. A few services that will need to be conducted at various intervals can include changing the fluids and filters and lubricating the key parts throughout the machine. Some manufacturers and dealerships even offer test kits and strips for further oil sampling and fluid checks, which will allow you to gain valuable data and knowledge about your machine.

Leveraging Your Dealer and Technology

When planning for a more substantial servicing of your equipment, make sure to talk with your dealer to learn if there is a maintenance package available, which can help take the stress of maintenance off your plate. Through a service package, the dealer can help handle the routine service intervals, ensuring all necessary tasks are performed at the right time. Programs and packages offered through dealerships and certified technicians present options like prepaying for annual maintenance and extending factory warranties, which can help control total cost of ownership by saving you time and money, as well as providing peace of mind that your machine is properly maintained on a consistent basis. Additionally, if you are considering purchasing a new machine, you can often talk to your dealer about adding in a maintenance package to the machine financing, thus incorporating service costs into the monthly payment. Be sure to ask your local dealer service about packages and extended warranties on machines. Finally, utilizing the latest technology solutions and updates can be a fantastic tool to help keep up with monitoring both daily and long-term machine maintenance. For example, some dealers, like your local John Deere dealers, offer platforms such as the JDLink telematics solutions to provide an inside look at the health of your machines and anticipate potential downtime or needs to address. Through the latest data management technology offerings and remote support systems, owners and operators are

able to analyze machine performance and better understand their productivity instantaneously. It is more important than ever for today’s loggers to take advantage of the latest technology advances to help maximize productivity and overall value. At the end of the day, the takeaway for loggers is that in order to keep machines

moving and productivity up, it is best practice to closely monitor the health of the machine, whether through daily checks, online monitoring services, or conversations with trusted technicians. Staying on top of maintenance can greatly impact the long-term value of your most vital equipment.

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TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 — www.forestnet.com

ALLU Group Announces Dealer for Southwestern United States

ALLU Group Inc. is pleased to announce Bejac Corporation as its newest dealer, covering California, Nevada, Arizona, and Utah. Based in Los Angeles/Placentia, California, Bejac represents the heavy range of ALLU D-Series Transformer and ALLU Crusher material processing attachments within these states. Bejac provides sales and rental of ALLU’s unique attachments, as well as complete aftermarket service and spare parts. The company has eight branch locations in California, two locations in Nevada, one location in Arizona, and one in Utah. Established in 1953, Bejac began business as a pipeline contractor. Since 1985, with Ron Barlet at the helm, Bejac has adapted and transformed into a successful equipment distributor. Barlet attributes the company’s growth to acquisition and adding new top-of-the-line products. Over the past several decades, Bejac has become a successful expert on niche industries.

DroneSeed Acquires Largest Private Forestry Seed Supplier in the Western U.S.

DroneSeed announced it has acquired Silvaseed Company, a 130-year-old titan in the forestry seed collection and seedling supply business. The move expands DroneSeed’s reforestation services beyond aerial drone-based seeding to span seed collection, seedling cultivation in nurseries, and on-the-ground tree planting services. The acquisition comes at a critical time in

the forestry industry, with skyrocketing demand for reforestation and many tree nurseries facing significant seed and seedling shortages. “With the compounding crises of climate change, wildfires, and forest loss, accelerating the pace and scale of reforestation is essential,” said Grant Canary, CEO of DroneSeed. “By creating the industry’s first vertically-integrated reforestation company, we now offer a one-stop-shop of reforestation services for landowners and foresters — starting from seed supply, to aerial enhanced seeding, to seedling cultivation, to traditional replanting, and more. We’re thrilled to build on Silvaseed’s track record and are doubling capacity at Silvaseed to meet intensifying demand.”

INFLOR Partners with American Forest Management

INFLOR, the Latin American leader in bio-asset management, partnered with American Forest Management (AFM) to implement efficient forestry technology to expand across the United States, as well as globally. Being at the forefront of providing forestry solutions from seed to harvest, INFLOR unifies companies’ systems in order to control and manage data across the board. Through the recent partnership, INFLOR has been able to expand business for AFM, the largest land consulting and real estate brokerage firm in the U.S., by integrating data, reducing costs, and creating better solutions across the company. In return, AFM has allowed INFLOR to grow their business in the United States – the forestry software company now manages over 2.1 million acres in the U.S. “We’ve perfected a unified system to manage companies’ forestry needs,” said Antonio Tatagiba, CEO at INFLOR for the United States. “We are not just an IT company; we are able to create a relationship, exchange data, and achieve the goals and

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results for each company we partner with. With AFM we were able to provide them the solutions they needed for growth.”

Barko Celebrates Two Years Injury-Free and Counting

Barko Hydraulics (Barko) is proud to report two years of injury-free work at their manufacturing facility.

“At the end of the day, our employees and their safety come first,” said Justin Rupar, president of Barko. “Our employees work with some of the most powerful machines in the industry. Recognizing two years of injury-free work at our facility highlights Barko’s commitment to safety in the workplace, as well as our employees’ sense of responsibility to one another. We are very proud of our team.”

Ponsse Manufactures 17,000th Forest Machine

The 17,000th PONSSE forest machine has rolled off the production line in Vieremä.

The milestone machine, a PONSSE Elk built in mid-August, will start its career in the sure hands of Kuusmoto Oy. “It is a special privilege to hand over the 17,000th PONSSE machine to the Finnish Kuusmoto Oy. I wish to thank Kuusmoto for their trust and fantastic cooperation as we continue our journey together,” said Sales, Service and Marketing Director Marko Mattila. “We are happy to receive this excellent machine and its plaque. Our current plan is to put the birthday boy to work in Posio or Ranua. It will be a fine addition to our fleet,” said Tomi Kuusela, managing director of Kuusmoto Oy.

sales@dropsprockets.com

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 — www.forestnet.com

Serving

Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana

• Gull-Wing Style Engine Hood Folds Down to Serve as an Elevated Service Work Platform Providing Excellent Service Access.

• Komatsu’s Exclusive KOMTRAX® Remote Equipment Monitoring & Management Telematics System is Standard.

• Increased Lift Capacity Provides Greater Productivity; XT465L-5 Now Handles Quadco 24B/C-Series Heads.

• Komatsu CARE® Complimentary Maintenance Program is Standard.

• Relocated the State-of-the-Art Operator’s Cab to the Left Side of the Machine with Each Set of Tracks Now Visible Through Side Door and Boom Side Windows.

• New Tier 4 Final Engine Provides More Horsepower, Torque & Displacement and Lowers Fuel Consumption by Up To 5% Through the Use of Advanced Engine & Hydraulic Control Systems.

• New Komatsu Rugged Undercarriages Provide Significantly Longer Service Life Due to Improved Track Chain Links, Track Roller Bushings, Track Sliders, Idler & Cushion Assembly and Track Guards. • New Forestry-Specific Hydraulic Hose & Tube Guarding System.

• New Rear-Mounted Cooling System Has Larger: Radiator, Charge Air Cooler (CAC) and Single Hydraulic Cooler.

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Chainsaws, Bars and Safety Accessories

By Tony Kryzanowski

to two flexible aluminum inserts, one on each side of the bar, but also creates a chemical bond or weld between the two inserts. The new DuraLite SuperBar remains ridged, durable, and tough and has the same quality characteristics as the traditional SuperBar, but weighs up to 25 per cent less. www.cannonbar.com

Echo

Cannon Bar Works

Since 1955, Cannon Bar Works has manufactured saw chain guide bars for the worldwide forest industry where only the highest quality bar stands a chance of longevity. Cannon started with one bar—the SuperBar—a chainsaw bar truly made for professionals and grew their offerings from there. Most recently, Cannon has introduced the Cannon DuraLite SuperBar. The DuraLite SuperBar is made from a virtually completed SuperBar. After the bar has been grooved and the rails have been flame-hardened, weight is eliminated by milling out pockets on either side of the SuperBar, leaving a steel core in the centre for strength. The centre section is then perforated with holes and Cannon then uses a special adhesive which not only bonds the steel

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The Echo CS-7310P chainsaw has a high-power 73.5 cc 2-stroke commercial grade engine. It features a three-point spring vibration reduction system for operator comfort. The air injection air cleaner uses centrifugal force to separate the dust and debris from air, resulting in longer air filter life. It comes equipped with an aluminum handle with rubber grip for strength and comfort, and chromeplated cylinder for long engine life. The magnesium crankcase and sprocket cover delivers strength and is lightweight. The pleated air filter with a large surface area ensures a steady flow of clean air to the carburetor. www.echo-usa.com

For decades GB says that it has continued to be a leader in manufacturing only the best and toughest bar available. GB Group PTY Ltd., located in Victoria, Australia, concluded a new agreement with Wallingford’s Inc in 2015 to be the exclusive distributor in the U.S. of GB harvester and slasher bars. Wallingford’s Inc. has been serving the logging community since 1975 and says it is committed to supplying only the absolute best products to their customers. A unique blend of titanium and alloy steel on GB bars yields the ultra-high strength material which ensures trouble free performance in all cutting conditions. This military grade, bulletproof steel is the strongest steel available and is uniquely manufactured to withstand the harshest of conditions. Operators all across the world continue to find ultimate satisfaction in GB bars, says the company. www.wallingfords.com

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 — www.forestnet.com

TechReview HAIX

For a tough, yet comfortable, chainsaw boot, the HAIX Protector Ultra Lime Green fits the bill. These boots offer exceptional stability on any kind of uneven terrain and are built for comfort. The lime green suede upper works in conjunction with the reflective material at the heel and ankle for increased visibility near the chainsaw both day and night. The boot also features a soft close fitting sleeve at the top of the boot that prevents flying wood chips and debris from getting inside and causing irritation. The suede upper offers double stitched construction with minimal seaming to yield a longer wearing, more durable boot and less risk of seam failure out in the field. The two zone lacing of the upper allows individual adjustment of the upper and lower lace areas for a customized fit, while the roller ball style eyelets make the adjustment quick and easy. www.haixusa.com

Husqvarna

Husqvarna is taking the next step in offering best-in-class cutting systems with the launch of the new Husqvarna X-TOUGH LIGHT lightweight bars through its partnership with Sugihara/Diatop Co Ltd, a praised and recognized manufacturer of chainsaw bars. Made for everyday professional forestry and tree care work, the

new Husqvarna X-TOUGH LIGHT bars offer a combination of lightweight, durability and cutting performance. Husqvarna X-TOUGH LIGHT benefits from a solid, lightweight body with hard resin inserts that reduce weight, making it easy to maneuver. Additionally, the hard resin inserts make the bars robust, ensuring high productivity and improved straightness in the

cuts. The three-rivet RSN mount and an optimized oil hole help provide reliability and performance during long workdays. These features, along with the rail hardness of the new bars, results in longer maintenance intervals. Also, the sprocket nose adds to the high performance of Husqvarna X-TOUGH LIGHT and the new premium design provides a distinct appearance. With Husqvarna’s new 3/8” lightweight bars, Husqvarna X-TOUGH LIGHT comes in lengths up to 36”. The bars fit Husqvarna chainsaws from 60cc and up with a large bar mount. www.husqvarna.com

JK Boots

JK Boots’ great Inlander Boot, built by hand with the finest American sourced leather, is capable of withstanding the gnarliest conditions and roughest terrain, says the company. Its unique stitcheddown construction provides all-day durability and support, to keep you moving even after the job is done. Family-owned and operated,

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 — www.forestnet.com

(continued on page 26)

TechReview (continued from page 25) JK Boots has been dedicated to producing high quality boots for the last 30 years. All of its boots are 100 per cent made in America, at their flagship store right in the heart of Spokane, Washington. Customers will find the fit, service, and craftsmanship of the boots are second to none, it says. The family is proud to serve hardworking men and women around the globe, by transforming the way they walk, work, and live life. Customers are requested to visit the company website or one of its stores in Spokane, Boise, or Redding to get a pair of custom boots. Time to get boots that match your intensity, says JK Boots. www.jkboots.com

revolutionary endurance rails with a 60-degree rail angle. All these benefits reduce downtime and increase productivity. The Blue Line series continues to change the forest industry around the world, says the company. In addition to adding its most powerful ¾” bar to the line up, Olofsfors/Iggesund Forest introduces the brand new Blue Line Vyking slasher bar. Specially designed for ground saws, the Vyking slasher bar has proven to be a reliable and productive saw bar in all conditions, says the company. www.iggesundforest.com/www.olofsfors.com

Oregon Products

Over the last 74 years, Oregon Products has built a legacy of innovation. That legacy traces back to its founder, Joe Cox, who was inspired by nature, the timber beetle larva, specifically, to design the modern-day saw chain. His design revolutionized the industry and continues to drive it today, says the company.

Olofsfors/Iggesund Forest

Olofsfors and Iggesund Forest are excited to introduce the Blue Line .404” with an Open End mounting system. The Open End system makes changing bars even quicker and dramatically reduces bar maintenance time. The company’s most powerful ¾” bar to date, the new Vyking series can handle any and all conditions. It features an advanced metal alloy, HD power tip for optimal performance and lifetime, and

Tried, Tested, and Proven. Available in 3/8", .404" and 3/4", GB® Bars and Orbit® Saw Chain are a winning combination of performance and value that can't be beat! Known for their excellent spring back after bending, GB® Bars are arguably the hardest bar on the market. Made from Titanium alloy steel, their lifespan far exceeds that of the competition. Orbit® Saw Chain, also made from high quality alloy steel features a hard chrome finish on the cutters for precise, yet efficient cutting and durability.

Not convinced? Ask a friend who's tried them. GB® and Orbit® are marketed by Wallingford’s Inc.

Since 1947, Oregon Products has become a precision cutting powerhouse with a portfolio of products that help professionals take on the toughest cuts. Its saw chains are created with a proven grind technology resulting in a burr-free cutting edge, consistent surface finish and even-shot peening that ensures a clean, quality cut. Beyond chain, Oregon manufactures guide bars, harvester and grapple saws, sprockets, log splitters and more. One product that gets a lot of air time among woodcutters is SpeedCut (shown). SpeedCut requires less power, offers more efficiency and delivers faster cutting performance, ultimately making quick work of everything from cleaning up trees to cutting firewood, says the company. www.oregonproducts.com

Stihl

Professionals can find the durability, dependability and performance they need in the Stihl MS 881 MAGNUM and MS 881 R MAGNUM chain saws, says the company. With an updated engine design, these models have the same power as the previous model while using less fuel and reducing exhaust emissions, saving time and money while also being better for the environment. As the most powerful saws in the Stihl line up, the MS 881 MAGNUM and MS 881 R MAGNUM are built for the most demanding tasks, including

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www.wallingfords.com TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 — www.forestnet.com

logging, thinning and land clearing. “For the largest, toughest and most demanding jobs, professionals can find the performance they need in the MS 881 chainsaw,” says John Allen, product manager for Stihl Inc. “And with time-saving features like the simplified carburetor design for easy manual adjustment, a stop switch that automatically returns to the run position reducing the risk of flooding the engine and captive bar nuts to eliminate the risk of losing bar nuts on the forest floor, these saws are designed to work for you.” www.stihlusa.com

TriLink Saw Chain

TriLink believes that quality is the key to success. It carries a complete line of low kickback and professional full chisel saw chain, guide bars, cutting accessories, and safety items. The company’s low kickback saw chain has been tested, approved, and listed by Underwriters Laboratories to meet all ANSI B175.1 requirements. Highlighting its saw chain line are the titanium-coated, full-chisel chains that cut 20 per cent faster than semi-chisel chain. Additionally, TriLink offers a 3/8” low profile full chisel chain providing faster, smooth cutting in clean conditions. As a global leader in the saw chain industry, it has built a reputation focusing the company on providing the best quality, value, and service in the industry. TriLink Saw Chain says it is your link to quality. www.trilinksawchain.com

Gem Chain Bar

Gem Chain Bar was established in 1989 in Kooskia, Idaho by former loggers who envisioned products that would make harvesting more efficient. In 2005, GEM began incorporating new technology and moved its shop to Grangeville, Idaho. There it utilizes automation and robotics to continually increase production capacity, quality and consistency. GEM is focused on a future that employs technology, innovation and extensive field testing.

GEM harvester bars are made from ballistic grade steel that is precision cut using a water jet process that leaves no heat affected zone nor cause mechanical stress to the steel. The company manufactures from the strongest steel used in the harvester industry to give customers the advantages of a high degree of spring back and bend force resistance. The bars are designed with wide oil wells for increased lubrication and extended wear life. Rail grooves are precisely and deeply machined to extend wear life. GEM’s replacement bar tips are made from premium hard plate with a unique hard metal composition. By using hard this metal with the same hardness throughout, the company is able to eliminate chipping and cracking. The tips are designed and checked to have a .001 tolerance uniformity across the inner tip assembly for longer wear life. www.gemchainbar.com

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 — www.forestnet.com

FireColumn

Congress to Finally Step-Up Firefighter Compensation By Lindsay Mohlere

ord has it that the huge $1.2

trillion bipartisan infrastructure package, now ping-ponging around the hallowed halls of government in Washington D.C., has long-awaited provisions for the nation’s wildfire fighters.

Inside the Package

Parts of the bill include funding for firespotting satellites and converting federal seasonal wildland firefighters to full-time positions, complete with benefits. If passed, 28

$3.4 billion would go toward wildfire fighting efforts. The bill would order the U.S. Agriculture and Interior departments — which together employ some 15,000 wildland firefighters — to start working with the Office of Personnel Management, the federal government’s human resources agency, on a new set of job classifications for firefighters. Changing job classifications is the first step toward raising pay for all firefighters. For more than a year, a group of 30 Republicans and 30 Democrats have been working on presenting the package. According to Rep. Josh Harder, D-Turlock

California, the bill includes funding to convert 1,000 seasonal wildland firefighters to full-time status and give every federal firefighter a pay raise — about $20,000 per year. It would also include $80 million for new supercomputers to predict wildfires, $100 million in sensors to track fires as soon as they start, and $20 million for fire spotting satellites. The geostationary satellites can detect new hot spots, wind shifts, and smoke movement — all important information for air assets and crews on the ground. Meanwhile, the Forest Service warned that federal firefighter staffing shortages potentially threaten the agency’s response

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 — www.forestnet.com

FireColumn to the country’s massive wildfires, which have been growing in size and intensity. Little doubt the reason for low staff numbers comes from the fact that firefighters are currently paid about as much as a burger flipper at Burger King. The money is about the same but the benefits and safe working environment of the restaurants trump the firefighter gig. So far this year (as of this writing), there have been 45,971 fires that have burned more than 5.9 million acres across the country, with the bulk of that figure landing in the West. More than 4,500 homes, commercial properties, and other buildings have been destroyed. In a prepared statement, before the House Subcommittee on Conservation and Forestry, Forest Service Chief Randy Moore said, “Federal wages for firefighters have not kept pace with wages offered by state, local, and private entities in some areas of the United States. And now fire seasons have become fire years, making it imperative to ensure a robust year-round workforce available to respond at any time.”

Drone Incursions Still a Problem

A few years ago, when drones were new to the public, they were the coolest of the cool and every geek wanted one. Equipped with HD technology, drones could take incredible photos and video while the operators stayed stationary and wiggled the joystick on the control unit. Somewhere along the line, despite FAA regulations prohibiting flight incursions in certain conditions, the drone fanatics started filming wildfires. With these little zoom balls flying through the air, it is easy to understand that unauthorized drone flights are a safety issue for firefighting air assets. The public drone incursion problem keeps popping up its ugly head. So far this year, there have been 21 drone incursions that have impacted air operations over wildfires across the nation. Most of the trouble has occurred in California and Washington, where drone flights have fouled up aerial firefighting efforts throughout fire season. As of October 7, 2021, 16 aerial wildfire fighting operations have been shut down this year, with air assets grounded — and I’m sure the number will grow. The six-year average for drone incursions is 29, with 2016 taking the cake for the most drone invasions with 41. The risk of getting caught flying a drone over restricted airspace is somewhat minimal, but if the operator is ever caught, the fines and property seizures can be steep. The P.R. line from the National Interagency Fire Center has been “If You Fly, We Can’t.” It’s a simple tag line to understand, but the numbskulls with their toy airplanes still seem to have missed the point.

DNA Brings Down Tree Thieves

It is often difficult to determine how a wildfire started. Human error is the percentage lead, but the actual root cause is usually more difficult to pinpoint. However, that is not the case of the 2018 Maple Fire that tore through Washington State’s Olympic National Forest, scorching more than 3,300 acres of land and destroying dozens of valuable bigleaf maple trees. Thanks to sharp-eyed firefighters, oversized stumps with sawedoff limbs were discovered in the devastation left by the fire. The limbs were a sign that the flames could have been the work of thieves harvesting illegal timber. Because the crime was on federal property, federal investigators jumped on the case. It wasn’t too long before the Feds had fingered two men for the crime. In 2019, Justin Wilke and Shawn Williams were convicted of stealing the trees. In a first for a federal criminal trial, prosecutors (continued on page 30) TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 — www.forestnet.com

FireColumn

(continued from page 29) used tree DNA to prove the Maple Fire remains matched that of the timber the men sold to local mills. In addition to the theft charges and other felonies associated with the crime, the men were also charged with setting the Maple Fire. Apparently, the tree that the thieves had selected to harvest housed a large nest of bees, which would have prevented the men

from harvesting the tree. To clear the nest, the men tried household hornet spray, and when that failed to produce the necessary results, they poured gasoline on the nest and set it afire. The nest fire quickly ignited the tree leaves and then the wind joined in, sending large embers into other trees and the forest floor. Dumb and Dumber tried to stop the blaze with bottled water but failed. Wilke and Williams were convicted of stealing the trees and starting the fire.

The Maple Fire cost about $4.2 million to contain. That’s a wrap. Stay safe out there. Talk back at twfirecolumn @gmail.com. (Source: USDA, Government Executive Newsletter, Bend Bulletin, WSJ, NBC)

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TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 — www.forestnet.com

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TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 — www.forestnet.com

Pacific Logging Congress Will Host In-person Convention November 7-10

The Pacific Logging Congress (PLC) will hold its 112th annual convention November 8 – 10, 2021, at the Hyatt Regency in Indian Wells, California. A host of industry speakers will cover topics that include everything from electric trucks to 2021 tax ramifications. The board is excited to finally be able to bring people together in person, and the PLC will be following all COVID protocols. To register or learn more about the upcoming conference, visit www.pacificloggingcongress.org.

W&C Suspensions Gives Generously to OLC Fire Relief Fund

W&C Suspensions (formerly known as Watson & Chalin) donated $28,500 to the Oregon Logging Conference (OLC) Repair & Recovery Fire Relief Fund. A post on the W&C Suspensions website read: “2020 has been challenging on all fronts and Watson & Chalin Manufacturing Inc. (W&C) recognizes it will take years to fully recover from the historic wildfires that have ravaged the Northwest. To that point, W&C would like to assist those affected and contribute to the rebuilding of our logging community as all start the journey of getting back on their feet and returning to normal.” As part of its Fire Relief Program, W&C Suspensions designated a portion of sales during the period of December 15, 2020, to March 31, 2021, to be a donation to the OLC Fire Relief Fund. Also during that period, W&C Suspensions offered logging fleets a credit on the purchase of a new W&C 50K single point suspension, “to shoulder a little of the burden of estimated equipment losses of over $100 million (due to wildfires).”

“Thank you, W&C Suspensions for your generous donation. We very much appreciate your support,” said Heidi Leib, OLC board member and committee chair.

New Forest and Water Publication and e-Course

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is offering a new publication and e-learning course on the connections between forests and water and how to improve the management of forests for the provision of water-related services. Policymakers, forest and water practitioners, community stakeholders, and others interested in this topic are invited to read the new FAO publication, a Guide to Forest-Water Management at www.fao. org/documents/card/en/c/cb6473en and sign up for the e-course, Forest and Water Nexus – introduction, https://elearning.fao.org/ course/view.php?id=727.

American Loggers Council 27th Annual Meeting

The American Loggers Council’s 27th annual meeting was held October 7-9, 2021 at the Coeur d’Alene Resort in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. The event began with an optional ldaho logging tour. Those that attended — especially those from flat geography — were wow’d by steep-slope logging taking place at Danielson Logging. The following day was filled with high level speakers, including Pete Stewart, President of Forest2Markets, who provided industry insights and trends. He touched on a number of topics such as carbon being the new global currency, an increased demand for pine and growth of the industry in the south, as well as the importance of mass timber, biofuel and ESG.

Pete was followed by Chris Pease who gave people a look at the new Idaho Forest Group mill being constructed in Lumberton, Georgia, and Jeff Manternach of Red Rock Biofuels who gave attendees a peak at his company’s future facility. Other highlights included the story around PATHH (Pandemic Assistance for Timber Harvesters and Haulers program) as an impassioned plea to get people signed up as soon as possible, and the deadline was soon approaching. Delbert Gannon also told members about Shasta College’s HELO program, there was a look at the national agenda and trucking challenges, and much more. One big moment was a break in the talks to read a letter that had just arrived from President Joe Biden, announcing how important the industry was and pledging his support. Tim Christopherson told attendees, no matter your political affiliation, this letter was proof that the ALC had arrived. The day wrapped up with the President’s reception, the President’s dinner and ALC Auction.

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 — www.forestnet.com

OREGON LOGGING CONFERENCE

84th Annual Oregon Logging Conference Keeping the Connection

You are invited to a traditional gathering of the Oregon Logging Conference, planned for February 24 – 26, 2022 at the Lane Events Center & Fairgrounds in Eugene, Oregon. The theme is Family, Friends & Forestry 2.0. OLC President Scott Melcher said the theme reflects the glue that has held everyone together over the last year and a half, and it honors family, loggers, and the timber industry. All three are tied together. Many companies have multiple generations of Family involved, carrying on a proud tradition. The bond of Friends provides support to navigate and overcome many of the challenges we face. Forestry is our livelihood, our culture, our way of life, and it wouldn’t be what it is today without Family, Friends & Forestry.

Pictured: Four generations of the Melcher Family and Friends in the Fun Forest Tree Farm. 34

The OLC has always focused on keeping a strong connection with logging professionals, exhibitors and vendors, students, and all who attend the OLC. Join us at the 84th Annual OLC and celebrate our connection.

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 — www.forestnet.com

OREGON LOGGING CONFERENCE

Desserts for Dreams to Benefit Sweet Home High School Forestry Program

The Desserts for Dreams event includes a light lunch and desserts donated by local restaurants and bakeries. Champagne, wine, sparkling cider, coffee, and tea are also included. The annual raffle associated with this event will have a purse theme. Tickets are $30 per person. For more information visit www.oregonloggingconference.com.

Event: 18th Annual Desserts for Dreams luncheon When: Friday, February 25, 2022 Where: Graduate Eugene hotel The Sweet Home High School Forestry Program will benefit from proceeds raised by the OLC Desserts for Dreams luncheon. OLC First Lady Wendi Melcher, who selected the forestry program as the organization to benefit from the luncheon, said the Sweet Home High School Forestry Program offers students who are interested in the industry an opportunity to learn about trade and career choices.

OLC PANELS AND SEMINARS — February 24th and 25th FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2022 Oregon Forest Practices (3 FP credits) Moderator Jamie Yraguen, Basco Logging Inc. This seminar will have topics and speakers addressing forest practice regulations in place today. Washington Forest Practices (2 WFP/ 2 PL credits) Moderator Riley Fogarty, Merrill Ring • Doug Hooks, Director of Forest and Environmental Programs, WFPA, Olympia, WA This seminar will have topics and speakers addressing forest practice regulations in place today.

Two days of panels and seminars will be offered at the 84th Annual Oregon Logging Conference in Eugene, Oregon. Some session topics have been set up (see below) and others are still being planned. Complete details are updated regularly on the Oregon Logging Conference website: www.oregonloggingconference.com THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2022 Hands-on Seminar (1 PL credit) Log Damage Caused by Modern Processing Equipment Moderator TJ Hammersmith, Swanson Group • Kevin Tuers, Sierra Pacific Industries • Ted Reiss, Sierra Pacific Industries • Matt Mattioda, Miller Timber Services • Preston Greene, Miller Timber Services • Representative from Ponsse USA Your Voice — Your Vote Counts (2 PL credits) Moderator Jim Dudley, Swanson Group • Matt Hill, Douglas Timber Operators • Chris Edwards, Oregon Forest & Industry Council • Travis Joseph, American Forest Resources Council

Business Seminar - Lubricants and Filtration Training for Trucks and Equipment (1 PL credit) Moderator Matt Bliss, Roseburg Resources Sponsored and presented by A & I Distributors Business Seminar - Smart Logging: Using Your Numbers to Improve Your Bottom Line (1 PL credit) Moderator Mike McKibbin, Stimson Lumber Co • Chris Duncan, Accountant MNP, BC Ca. Better Ideas/New Technology in Logging (2 PL credits) Moderator Chad Bell, Wayne Stone Logging A Changing Labor Force • Eric Krume, Summit Attachment & Mfg. This presentation will address how to automate yourself out of a labor shortage due to the lack of people looking for employment. Today’s forestry equipment technology provides company owners, management, and loggers the opportunity to reduce the “boots on the ground” workforce. Reducing Stress & Fatigue due to Day-to-Day Equipment Operation • Representative, Therapeutic Associates This presentation will address the day-to-day operation of equipment and the stress and fatigue it causes on fingers, thumbs, hands, elbows, and arms. The presenter will discuss how exercising and stretches performed daily will help reduce the stress on those areas. Hands-on Seminar (1 PL credit) Sponsored & presented by Triad Machinery Topic and speaker announced soon

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 — www.forestnet.com

Werk-Brau Introduces Hydra-clamp Bucket

Werk-Brau has introduced the Hydra-clamp bucket with a builtin rotary actuated thumb that maintains consistent clamping force on the load through the entire rotation, for improved flexibility and precision. Constructed of abrasionresistant, wear-resistant, and high-strength AR400 steel in all critical areas, this versatile attachment is ideal for handling heavy, awkward, or bulky items, moving debris, or sorting scrap, riprap, or other demolition rubble. A helical actuator provides up to 54,000 ft. lbs. of torque at 3000 psi, considerably more clamping force than a traditional bucket and thumb set-up, with no exposed cylinders to become damaged. Consistent clamping force throughout the thumb’s 120-degree range of motion allows operators to maintain control of materials regardless of positioning. Werk-Brau Hydraclamp Buckets include serrated side plates that help secure debris while moving and are available in various sizes to match a machine’s capacity. www.Werk-Brau.com

John Deere Introduces New Equipment and Options

There are a lot of new products coming out of John Deere. First, the company has introduced the new, small-size H423 harvester head and the large-size H425 and H425HD. These attachments replace the previous H413, H415, and H415HD models. Like their predecessors, these heads have 4WD feed. The H423 harvester head works on the 1070G, 1170G, and 1270G base machines and is ideal for thinnings and other fellings, where the tree diameter at chest height (BHD) is 150-350 mm. With improved hose routing from boom to harvester head and from valve block to feed motors, this attachment offers improved durability, easy hose replacement, and improved hose protection with modifications to the frame.

The H425 harvester head for the large-size class is available on the 1270G and 1470G base machines. This attachment is ideal for final fellings and other fellings where the tree diameter at chest height (BHD) is 250-500 mm. Also including improved hose routing from loader to harvester head and from valve block to feed motors, the hoses are routed through the frame and well protected within the structures, improving durability. Additionally, the H425HD harvester head added to the H425 model offers an HD tilt frame, expander pins in the upper end of the tilt cylinder, feed motor arms, and lower delimbing knives. In addition, John Deere now offers a 330-horsepower option for the 853M Tracked Feller Buncher and 853MH Tracked Harvester, equipped with the optional Dedicated Travel System feature. The 36

combination of the travel and horsepower options on the 853M and 853MH machines enables John Deere to deliver enhanced performance in harsh conditions. This new horsepower option on the 853M and 853MH further enhances the functionality of the Dedicated Travel System, which provides focused hydraulic functionality for the tracks, while providing independent hydraulic power and performance to the swing, boom, and attachment functions. This hydrostatic control of the travel function increases overall machine efficiency, especially during heavy multifunctioning. The additional horsepower is fully available for additional work, adding to the increased performance and productivity of the equipment. www.johndeere.com

Tigercat Introduces LSX870D Shovel Logger and 880E Logger

Tigercat has raised the bar again with the introduction of the LSX870D shovel logger. Based on the popular LX870D series track carrier platform, the machine is designed for extreme duty steep slope logging. With the choice of attachments including the new Tigercat BG13 grapple with a live heel boom or the SC08 shovel clam grapple, the LSX870D is suited to pre-bunching and shovel logging in challenging terrain. The addition of the LSX870D to the Tigercat lineup provides a higher power, closed loop drive alternative to the LS855E. Where the LS855E provides higher swing speed and lower ground pressure, the LSX870D allows for improved multifunctioning ability and quicker, more responsive travel speed, says Tigercat. The Tigercat FPT C87 engine supplies 330 hp, which combined with the dedicated attachment pump, provides plenty of multifunctioning power. Tigercat also released the 880E Logger, a multi-purpose forestry carrier that can be configured for loading, shovel logging, or processing applications. The 880E introduces several new features including an updated operator’s station and various grapple configurations to tailor the machine to your specific needs. The 880E is powered by the Tigercat FPT N67 engine, producing 308 hp. The F7-163 undercarriage is designed and built to withstand rigorous, full-time forest duty with exceptional stability for heavy timber applications. The spacious cabin has a new heated operator’s seat. Controls are integrated into both sides of the joystick pods, eliminating the need for any bolt-on control pods. Also, the quiet interior helps the operator enjoy the auxiliary audio input port, Bluetooth audio, and hands-free calling. The 880E can be configured as a loader equipped with various power clam, butt-n-top, and log grapple options. Equipped with a live heel boom system, the 880E is a highly capable shovel logger with excellent stability, tractive effort, and swing torque. The carrier can also be configured as a high-capacity processor capable of running large harvesting heads in demanding duty cycles. www.tigercat.com

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 — www.forestnet.com

CALENDAR NOVEMBER 7-10, 2021 Pacific Logging Congress - Annual Meeting Indian Wells, CA www.pacificloggingcongress.org

DECEMBER 8-9, 2021 Lumber and Building Materials LBM 2021 Expo, Rhode Island 518-286-1010, www.lbmexpo.com ________________________________

NOVEMBER 10-12, 2021 NAWLA Traders Market, Louisville, KY 800-527-8258, www.nawla.org

JANUARY 12-14, 2022 78th Annual Truck Loggers Association Convention, Vancouver, BC 604-684-4291, www.tla.ca

NOVEMBER 14-16, 2021 Wildland Urban Interface 2021, Reno, NV 703-273-9654, www.iafc.org/wui

FEBRUARY 2-4, 2022 20th Ann. Forestry Forum, Coeur d’Alene, ID 208-883-4488, www.forestersforum.com

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FEBRUARY 24-26, 2022 Oregon Logging Conference, Eugene, OR 541-686-9191 www.oregonloggingconference.com MARCH 5-8, 2022 NAWLA Leadership Summit Fort Lauderdale, FL 800-527-8258, www.nawla.org MARCH 14-16, 2022 International Biomass Conf. & Expo Jacksonville, FL 701-746-8385, www.bbiinternational.com

AD INDEX COMPANY PG# AGRI-COVER.................................................................29 AIR BURNERS............................................................... 31 BKT TIRES.......................................................................5 CASCADE TRADER........................................................ 16 DC EQUIPMENT / MODERN MACHINERY.....................25 DROP SPROCKETS.......................................................22 EAGLE CARRIAGE & MACHINE........................................8 GALARDY TECHNICAL SERVICES LTD............................. 7 GEM CHAIN BAR...........................................................24 HAIX NORTH AMERICA.................................................27 HYDRAULEX GLOBAL................................................... 21 JORAL / LOGGINGENCODERS.COM............................. 12 KOMATSU AMERICA.....................................................23 LBX / TRIAD MACHINERY / BEJAC................................ 19 MORBARK.....................................................................39 OLOFSFORS..................................................................30 OREGON LOGGING CONFERENCE......................... 34-35 PIERCE PACIFIC.............................................................17 PONSSE..........................................................................9 PROLENC MFG............................................................. 12 QUADCO GROUP............................................................2 TIGERCAT / TRIAD MACHINERY / BEJAC......................40 VULCAN ON-BOARD SCALES........................................ 11 WALLINGFORD'S INC....................................................26 WCLA CREDIT UNION................................................... 18 YOKOHAMA OFF ROAD TIRES/ ALLIANCE.................... 13 MILL MAP ADVERTISING BEJAC CORP BRAKE SYSTEMS INC BRIKERS HAMILTON ENGINE HYDRAULEX GLOBAL JAMES G MURPHY LEAVITT LG ISAACSON LINDEN FABRICATING

NORTHWEST FARM CREDIT SERVICE PONSSE QUADCO GROUP RAPID SPAN RAWLINGS SAMUAL STRAPPING WOOD FIBRE GROUP

3. Sales through dealers, carriers, street vendors counter sales, other non-USPS paid distribution....................................................0................... 0 4. Other classes mailed through the USPS..............................................................177................195 C: Total paid and/or requested circulation (sum of 15B, 1, 2, 3 and 4)...................... 7,078.............7,087 1. Title of Publication: TimberWest Publications D: Free distribution by mail 2. Publication No. 0248-58 1. Outside county nonrequested copies stated on PS form 3541 (include 3. Date of Filing: Sept. 30, 2021 sample copies, requests over 3 years old, Request induced by a premium, 4. Frequency of issue: Bimonthly bulk sales and requests including association requests, names 5. Number of issue Published Annually: 6 obtained from business directories, lists and other sources)......................... 2,908.............3,145 6. Annual Subscription Price: $22 U.S., $35 CDN 2. In-county nonrequested copies stated on PS form 3541 (include 7. Complete Mailing Address of known office of publication (street, city, county, state, ZIP): sample copies, requests over 3 years old, Request induced by a 300 Admiral Way, Suite 105, Edmonds, WA 98020, (Snohomish County) premium, bulk sales and requests including association requests, 8. Complete mailing address of headquarters or general business office of publisher: names obtained from business directories, lists and other sources).....................0................... 0 300 Admiral Way, Suite 105, Edmonds, WA 98020 3. Nonrequested copies distributed through the USPS by other classes 9. Name and complete mailing address of (Publisher): Sheila Ringdahl, 300 Admiral Way, Suite 105, of mail (e.g. First-Class Mail, nonrequestor copies mailed in excess Edmonds, WA 98020. (Editor): Diane Mettler, PO Box 26, Eatonville, WA 98328 of 10% limit mailed at Standard Mail or package services rates)............................0................... 0 10: Owner name, complete mailing address: Anthony Robinson, TimberWest Publications, LLC, 4. Nonrequested copies distributed outside the mail (included pickup PO Box 86670, North Vancouver, BC V7L 4L2 stands, trade shows, showrooms and other sources)...........................................17................... 0 11: Known bondholders, mortgages, and other security holders owning or holding 1 percent or more of E: Total nonrequested distribution (Sum of 15d (1), (2), and (3))............................... 2,925.............3,145 total amount of bonds, mortgages, or other securities: None F: Total Distribution (Sum of 15c and e)...................................................................10,003.......... 10,232 12: Tax status (purpose, function, and nonprofit status of this organization and the exempt status for G: Copies not distributed................................................................................................50.................50 federal income tax purposes: Has not changed during preceding 12 months H: Total (sum of 15f and g)........................................................................................ 10,053.......... 10,282 No. Copies of Average No. 13: Publication title: TimberWest Publications I: Percent Paid and/or requested circulation (15c divided by f times 100)............ 70.76%.........69.26% Single Issue Copies Each 14: Issue date for circulation data below: July/August 2021 Published Issue During 16: Electronic Copy Circulation Nearest to Proceeding A: Requested and Paid Electronic Copies..................................................................... 274...............282 Filing Date 12 Months 15: Extent and nature of circulation B: Total Requested and Paid Print Copies A: Total number of copies (net press run)................................................................ 10,053.......... 10,282 (Line 15c) + Requested/Paid Electronic Copies...................................................... 7,352............ 7,369 B: Paid and/or requested circulation C: Total Requested Copy Distribution 1. Paid or requested outside-county mail subscriptions........................................ 6,901............6,892 (Line 15f) + Requested/Paid Electronic Copies (Line 16a).....................................10,277........... 10,514 2. Paid in-county subscriptions D: Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation (Both Print & Electronic Copies (including advertisers’ proofs/exchange copies).....................................................0................... 0 16b—divided by 16c x 100).....................................................................................71.53%......... 70.08% 37 TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 www.forestnet.com

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GuestColumnist

Clock is Ticking on Disastrous Spotted Owl Policy By Nick Smith

imberWest readers don’t

need a reminder that the 1990 listing of the Northern Spotted Owl had a disastrous social and economic impact on our rural communities. It forever changed the forest products industry throughout the western United States. Today the resulting anti-forest management policies have directly contributed to environmental destruction, as catastrophic wildfires scorch communities and owl habitat alike. Thirty years later, anti-logging proponents can no longer run from the facts. More than 9.5 million acres of federal lands in California, Oregon, and Washington have been set aside as “critical habitat” for the species. This does not include the millions of additional acres of national parks, congressionally designated wilderness areas, and other areas where forest management is also off limits. Despite shutting down logging across nine million acres of federal lands, spotted owl populations have declined as much as 75 percent since 1995. Loggers are not to blame for the decline of this species. The spotted owl still matters because it continues to dominate federal forest management in the Pacific Northwest. However, there are reasons to believe the clock is ticking on these failed policies. There is an opportunity to restore responsible forest management in a way that benefits owls and people.

The Science Is Evolving

The Clinton-era Northwest Forest Plan promised to focus on “scientifically sound, ecologically credible, and legally responsible strategies and implementation,” while “producing a predictable and sustainable level of timber sales and nontimber resources.” These promises were broken as spotted owl critical habitat was applied to federal lands intended for timber production, known as Matrix lands. If one needs proof spotted owl critical habitat is unscientific, consider that nearly two million acres of critical habitat is not even suitable habitat for the species. According to the American Forest Resource Council (AFRC), at a minimum, 1.4 million acres of restricted Matrix lands do not provide suitable nesting, roosting, and 38

foraging habitat for the species. As we’ll discuss in a moment, setting aside non-habitat as critical habitat not only defies common sense, it is also illegal. Due to the lack of active forest management, federal forests have become overgrown and vulnerable to increased mortality, insects, and diseases that are fueling today’s megafires. Emerging scientific research confirms high-severity wildfire is causing the persistent loss of old-growth forests. It is estimated that wildfires burned more than 560 square miles of suitable nesting and roosting spotted owl habitat in Oregon last year. In addition, a 20-year monitoring report on the Northwest Forest Plan published in 2015 concluded that over 80 percent of owl habitat loss during this period was due to wildfire and disease, not timber harvest. The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service’s recovery plan for the spotted owl points to the need for active forest management, yet critical habitat rulings made it difficult for federal land managers to implement forest thinning and other activities to help mitigate further losses of actual habitat from wildfire. Science is also pointing to competition from barred owls (a larger, more aggressive species) as the biggest driver of spotted owl population loss. A recent study found the spotted owl populations drastically declined after barred owls moved into landscapes dominated by old-growth forests where timber harvest and active management have not occurred. The recovery plan states that simply protecting habitat will not recover the spotted owl, since the best available science indicates that competition from the barred owl poses a significant risk to the survival of the species. Despite overwhelming evidence about the threat posed by the barred owl, and federal promises to implement a barred owl removal program, little has been done to reduce the growing barred owl population.

The Law Is Evolving

Last year a coalition representing counties, labor, and the industry reached an agreement with the Fish & Wildlife Service to reevaluate spotted owl critical habitat. The agreement was partly related to a unanimous 2018 U.S. Supreme Court decision in another forestryrelated case, finding the Endangered Species Act did not authorize the government to

designate lands as critical habitat unless it is, in fact, habitat for the species. In January, after a public rulemaking process, the Fish & Wildlife Service finalized a critical habitat rule that removed nonhabitat as well as lands set aside for timber production. It was an important step toward sensible forest management policy.

The Politics Need to Catch up

Under pressure from anti-forestry groups, the Biden Administration delayed — and then reversed — the January 2021 critical habitat rule. AFRC joined counties in suing the Fish & Wildlife Service, alleging the agency failed to provide a lawful justification for the delay and failed to provide the public with notice or an opportunity to comment. In addition to violating the agreement to reevaluate spotted owl critical habitat, the Biden Administration is defying U.S. Supreme Court precedent by designating as critical habitat land that is not actually habitat for the spotted owl. The Biden Administration is expected to release a new critical habitat rule in the next year. More lawsuits will likely follow. Recently, Congressman Cliff Bentz (R-Oregon) attempted to insert an amendment into a major federal spending bill that would have reinstated the critical habitat rule. Unfortunately, it was voted down on party lines.

Get Involved

If you live in Congressman Bentz’s district, thank him for supporting sensible critical habitat policy. If you live elsewhere, contact your federal representatives and explain how current policies are harming our communities, forests, and the species itself. At some point, the politics will catch up with evolving law and science. Once it does, there will be new opportunities for responsible forest management that reduces wildfire risks and provides sustainable timber supplies to support rural economies. Forest management, combined with an effective barred owl mitigation plan, would give the spotted owl a fighting chance to survive too. Nick Smith is Executive Director of Healthy Forests, Healthy Communities and provides public affairs services to the American Forest Resource Council. TW

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2021 — www.forestnet.com

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