A Monthly Publication of Maine Woodland Owners February 2018 Vol. 43 No. 2 Community t Advocacy t Knowledge t Legacy Land Donation, Wilkins Award Highlight Forum Text by Douglas Rooks, Editor Photos by Jeanne Siviski

When Executive Director Tom Doak said during the Maine Woodlands Owners Annual Meeting Jan. 10 that there would be a major announcement during the afternoon Forum, he wasn’t kidding. He called the Chandler family of New Gloucester to the podium to reveal that Maine Woodland Owners will receive “the largest” land gift in its history – 2,500 acres, entirely within New Gloucester. By comparison, the Chandler’s gift to Maine Woodland Owners is about one-half of the Steve Chandler (left) speaks about his family’s land donation, as his wife the organization’s total land trust acreage. Natalie and cousin Charlie listen. The Chandler family ownership dates back to the 18th century. generation of Chandler heirs, it became clear that Steve Chandler, retired from the U.S. Forest seeking a permanent owner who would keep the Service, and who represented the family, (Steve, land undeveloped as a working forest was the goal Natalie, Charlie and Bertha), said their history in New everyone shared. Earlier, the Chandlers sold 117 acres Gloucester began when Peleg and Sarah Chandler surrounding Lily Pond, also known as Chandler Mill arrived in an oxcart from North Yarmouth in 1762. Pond, to the Department of Inland Fisheries and The Chandler , established in the 1890s, Wildlife. was one of the first such year-round operations in Maine, and provided steady employment for many Tom Doak said, “I don’t think I’ve ever seen in the community during hard times in the following better long-term management. We’re all in awe of century.

After beginning transition planning for the next Forestry Forum Continued on Page 4

Inside Appeal Continues Roses and Raspberries...... 2 Rights and Trespass...... 12 Donations to the Maine Legislature is Back ...... 3 Red Guide...... 13 Woodland Owners Annual Appeal New Board Members ...... 6 Winter Opportunities ...... 14 are still welcome. For more Habitat Gratitude ...... 8 Top 10 Apps ...... 16 information, call 626-0005. For an update, see page 13. Many Uses of Bark...... 10 Falling Champion...... 20 A Member-Supported Organization Page 2 Maine Woodlands February 2018

President’s Message By Jessica Leahy A Monthly Publication of the [email protected] Maine Woodland Owners February 2018 Volume 43 Number 2

153 Hospital Street, PO Box 836 Roses and Raspberries Augusta, ME 04332-0836 Telephone: 207-626-0005 It’s February, which means Valentine’s Day. It’s also a Toll Free: 1-877-467-9626 month when our Legislature is in full swing. What better E-mail: [email protected] way to keep with the theme of the holiday, than to award Website: www.mainewoodlandowners.org some “roses” and “raspberries”? The roses represent a thank you, while raspberries represent “a sound made with the Staff tongue and lips in order to express derision or contempt.” Tom Doak, Executive Director Bill Williams, Deputy Executive Director Debra L. Ladd, Administrative Assistant A rose is given to the Taxation Committee for rejecting Douglas Rooks, Editor harmful legislation, and requesting a committee review of the Tree Growth Tax Law. By all accounts, stakeholders Board of Directors have had productive conversations about how to maintain Executive Committee: and improve this important program. There’s a lot of promise President: Jessica Leahy, Orono 1st Vice President: Paul Sampson, Lincolnville that this diverse group will provide recommendations that 2nd Vice President: Doug Baston, Alna are agreeable to those involved, including Maine Woodland Secretary: Tom Abello, Edgecomb Owners, Maine Municipal Association, Association of Treasurer: Dan Crocker, Glenburn Consulting Foresters, Maine Farm Bureau, The Nature Conservancy and Maine Forest Products Council. Members at Large: Gary Bahlkow, North Yarmouth (2018) John Bozak, Lebanon (2018) A raspberry is given to the administration for not Patty Cormier, Norridgewock (2019) allowing the Maine Forest Service or Maine Revenue Mike Dann, Dixmont (2019) Services to participate. Their knowledge and the information Rich Merk, Otisfield (2020) they possess would have been extremely valuable. Richard Nass, Acton (2020) William Weary, Newcastle (2019) Jeffrey Williams, Limington (2020) A rose, however, goes to the staff of the Maine Forest Service, and Maine Revenue Services, for providing Chapter Leaders continuing education classes for foresters about the Tree Central Maine: Gordon Moore, Monson Growth law. This is a proactive way to ensure foresters Down East: Si Balch, Brooklin know all the rules. We know from Forest Service research Midcoast: Paul Sampson, Lincolnville Northern Maine: Randy Lagasse, Presque Isle that most landowners follow the rules, and additional Northern Maine: Dan Jacobs, Littleton training can address the few issues that were identified. Penobscot Valley: Larry Beauregard, Brewer Southern Maine: Jeffrey Williams, Limington While we’re at it, we should give a rose to past St. Croix: Kyle Burdick, Pembroke legislatures that created our current use taxation programs, Two Rivers: Vacant including Tree Growth, Open Space and Farmland. They Upper Kennebec Valley: Patty Cormier, Farmington Western Maine: Rich Merk, Otisfield help keep our forests and farms intact. Tree Growth requires landowners to have, and follow, a management Opinions expressed in Maine Woodlands do not plan promoting sustainable forestry. These programs make necessarily reflect Maine Woodland Owners’ sure our and farms are producing goods and services position unless expressly stated. all Mainers benefit from, whether forest products or food.

Maine Woodlands is mailed bulk rate. The post office And I should add that the views expressed here are does not forward. Your current address is essential. mine alone, and do not represent Maine Woodland Owners, nor my employer. A Member-Supported Organization Page 3 Maine Woodlands February 2018 Important Decisions Await Legislative Action

The so called “short session” of the Legislature is underway. All new bills must first be approved for introduction by a majority of legislative leaders. This At the year leadership was particularly stringent limiting the number of new bills to about 100. However, add in State House bills carried over from last session and state agency By Tom Doak, Executive Director initiated requests and the number is well over 400. [email protected] This does not include any legislation the Governor submits, which he can do at any time. So there will Relations program in the Department of Inland be plenty of action at the Legislature. Most new bills Fisheries and Wildlife. The program’s focus is have not been printed, so we do not know yet which assisting woodland owners who have problems ones will affect woodland owners. There are several created by the public use of private land. With 90% important carry over bills which will be acted on in of Maine woodland privately held, Maine’s outdoor the near future. Here are three: economy is dependent upon use of private land for hunting, bird watching, hiking, snowmobiling, etc. Tree Growth Tax Law. “LD 1599 An Act to We heard numerous stories at our January Annual Improve the Maine Tree Growth Tax Law”. (We Meeting of landowners who were having problems oppose the bill). This Governor’s bill was released caused by inappropriate public use of their land that during the end of last year’s legislative session. The were helped by the Department. The bill passed the language of the bill was very similar to those that have Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Committee unanimously been proposed by the administration in the last few and easily passed through both chambers of the years, all of which have been overwhelmingly rejected. Legislature, but stalled on the appropriations table We opposed the bill as harmful to the program and and was carried over. The program is currently funded landowners, particularly small woodland owners. primarily with a portion of the Sportsman’s License We did however support carrying the bill over given Plate (with declining sales). The program will run out all the misinformation about the law and allowing for of money if additional funding is not provided. a thoughtful discussion of everyone’s concerns. The bill was carried over, and the Taxation Committee Arming of Forest Rangers. “LD 8 An Act to Provide requested the School of Forestry Resources at the Training for Forest Rangers to Carry Firearms”. (We University of Maine chair a group over the summer oppose the bill). Whether or not to arm forest rangers and fall consisting of us (I represent us on the has been hotly debated for a number of years. Rangers group), the Maine Forest Service, the Maine Forest serve a valuable function which we believe will be Products Council, the Maine Farm Bureau, The diluted if they become armed law enforcement officers. Nature Conservancy, the Association of Consulting Their principal job is prevention and suppression of Foresters, Maine Municipal Association, and Maine forest fires, along with forestry and environmental Revenue Services to review the Tree Growth Tax Law monitoring and inspection. And they do a fine job and report any changes the group recommends to in their role. It is a unique role, which should not the Committee by February 1st. That group has been be lost. There are no records of injury of rangers by meeting, though unfortunately the administration has another person while performing their duties. The refused to allow either the Maine Revenue Service Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry Committee or the Maine Forest Service to participate or provide voted to support arming while not requiring current information. The group has met several times. I suspect rangers to receive the full training and certification there may be some tweaking or clarifying the law, but that all other full time law armed officers in this State none of the committee members have expressed the are required to complete. The proposal to arm all forest need for major changes. rangers stalled at the appropriations process. While it received approval in both chambers, any arming of Landowner Relations. “LD 1391 An Act to rangers comes with additional cost for equipment, Ensure the Continuation of the Landowner Relations training and salary increases. The bill was not funded Program”. (We support the bill). This bill would last session, so it was held over to keep the bill from provide permanent funding for the Landowner failing, at least for now. A Member-Supported Organization Page 4 Maine Woodlands February 2018 distinguished company.” Speaker Gideon said, “At the State House, we understand that the working forest is central to our environment and our economy, as well as our way of life.” President Thibodeau, also looking over the list of honorees, said, “What a prestigious award this is. They’re all iconic names, companies that really drive the Maine economy . . . We recognize that Tom [Doak] and his Austin Wilkins Award presentation: Mike Thibodeau, Jessica Leahy, Scott Wilkerson representing Sen. King, Tom Doak and Sara Gideon. team do a terrific job at the State House representing Forestry Forum you and all your members.” Continued from Page 1 During the morning Forum sessions, Doak provided an overview of the Tree Growth Tax Law, and this spectacular gift.” A more complete account will asked a series of 10 “True or False” questions about the appear in the March issue. program that challenged the audience, though most of the questions were answered correctly. While the The Chandler Brothers’ gift almost upstaged administration has repeatedly sought major adverse what was expected to be the highlight of the day – changes to the program, Doak said the Taxation presentation of the 14th annual Austin Wilkins Award, Committee has displayed a good understanding of representing exemplary forest stewardship – to Maine the law and its purpose, and seems unlikely to sign off Woodland Owners. The citation – a hand-carved on any disruptive plaque – was presented by Senate President amendments. Mike Thibodeau and House Speaker Sara Gideon; U.S. Senator Angus King, who was in Washington, D.C., Doak also added his congratulations through a video message. stated that Maine Woodland It was just the second time in the award’s history Owners has agreed it has gone to a non-profit organization, rather than an to amendments individual or business; Maine Tree Farm was the 2013 in the past “that recipient. In 2016, the Wilkins award went to Max make the program McCormack, retired University of Maine research work better.” professor, who helped design the award when it was first presented in 2004. Austin Wilkins was the first University of recipient, at the age of 101. Maine graduate student Casey In introducing the speakers representing the Olechnowicz Casey Olechnowicz presents the Maine Tree Foundation, Ron Lovaglio, who was presented the best Apps for woodland owners. commissioner of the Department of Conservation best mobile device in the King administration, noted some of the past Apps for woodland owners. To read a full description recipients, including Seven Islands, the Baskahegan of these Apps, see page 16. Company, Prentiss & Carlisle, Robbins , Sherry Huber and John Hagan – and Max McCormack Board President Jessica Leahy gave a brief – and said, “These are our Golden Globes, and presentation on succession planning, subject of a Maine Woodland Owners has earned a place in this long-running Maine Woodlands series that culminated A Member-Supported Organization Page 5 Maine Woodlands February 2018 in a handbook, “Creating a Legacy.” A new publication, based on research at the University of Maine and other public and private universities, has just been released. Called, “Their Land, Their Legacy,” it’s intended for those who can help woodland owners with their succession plans, including foresters, loggers, tax professionals and land trusts. UMaine is now organizing workshops that will take place in The usual full house was on hand for the 43rd Annual Meeting and Forestry Forum. the lower Saco River and lower Penobscot River watersheds. The new report and furrows,” and scales or plates that mark the aging is available free online at the University of Maine process, and showed how each species adapts over website, as well as printed copies. “Creating a Legacy” time. He showed key details, such as the fungi that is still available from create “a whitewashed look” on the trunks of many Maine Woodland sugar . After his presentation, he signed copies Owners. of the book for numerous members.

Author Michael For the third consecutive year, a film and musical Wojtech provided presentation by Sumner McKane entertained Forum a detailed look at attendees. “The Northeast by Eastern” is based on how to identify tree the more than 75,000 glass plate negatives produced species from their by Eastern Illustrating and Publishing Co., based bark, which became in Belfast, whose salesmen-photographers fanned the subject for his out all over rural New England and eastern New doctoral thesis at York State, selling black and white postcards that the University of preserved images of countless rural communities. In Vermont, and then contrast to generic color postcards that were mass- a book, Bark: A produced during Eastern’s heyday – the first half of th Michael Wojtech, author of Bark, Field Guide to Trees the 20 century – the black and white images provide signs copies of his book. of the Northeast, a detailed historical record of small-town life and published in 2011. work that is unmatched, McKane said. Most of the It all started, he said, when he was surveying a negatives are now preserved in the archives of the forest stand in October, then realized all the leaves Penobscot Marine Museun. from were about to be blown off by an approaching windstorm. Tree bark was the remaining Finally, Nancy Olmstead of the Maine Natural characteristic for identification, and he soon realized Areas Program gave a lively and fast-paced review of bark was an under-studied part of forest ecosystems. invasive plants in Maine. Her work, and that of student With the encouragement of his mentor, Professor interns, was presented in Maine Woodlands, and will be Tom Wessels, and motivated by “practical reasons for amplified in a new guidebook due out this summer. learning,” he soon found a field of study “that really The invasives program has increased public awareness connected me to this new place,” after relocating from markedly over the past two years, with the number of the Barrens of New Jersey to northern Vermont. documented species, survey submissions and control efforts all growing rapidly. New workshops for the Wojtech traced the life cycles of trees that “all agricultural community, students, and Department of start with smooth and unbroken bark,” through the Transportation vegetation managers will be presented appearance of lenticels, horizontal peeling, “ridges later this year. A Member-Supported Organization Page 6 Maine Woodlands February 2018 Bylaw Changes, New Board Members Approved

Members approved bylaw changes, elected three salvage harvesting after the Oct. 30 windstorm. Jessica new board members, and re-elected another during Leahy said the Land Trust is exploring strategic the Maine Woodland Owners 43rd annual meeting acquisitions, particularly land adjacent to current Jan. 10. The bylaw changes properties, to increase management efficiency. revised requirements for the 15-member Board of Directors, In Executive Director Tom Doak’s legislative which previously had five report, he recounted many hours spent defending officers, five members-at-large, the Tree Growth Tax Law Program, but said and five regional representatives. recommendations from the current Taxation President Jessica Leahy explained Committee stakeholder group may produce some that the regional requirements beneficial changes. He pointed out that change is have made recruiting board normal; since being adopted in the 1970s, Tree Growth members difficult. The approved has been amended in all legislative sessions except the Paul Sampson changes specify that 10 directors last two. will be elected at-large, with new language instructing the nominating committee to Doak also drew attention to the “highly successful” seek diversity in terms of landowning philosophies, Landowner Relations Program now conducted by the relevant skills, as well as board members from all Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (IF&W), parts of Maine. which needs about $150,000 each year in state funding to continue. The program attracted widespread praise Joining the board May 1 for three-year terms will be from members, one of whom was “impressed beyond Tom Allen, 1st District Congressman from 1996-2008; description” by the response to landowners having Nathan Webb, a wildlife biologist; and Erik Carlson, a trouble with vandalism or trespassing. forester and pellet mill owner. John Bozak will serve a second term on the board, while Gary Bahlkow, having In response to questions, Doak said that while reached the two-term limit, will leave the board but the forest products industry in remain active in the organization. All five officers were Maine is undergoing a major re-elected to one-year terms: Jessica Leahy, president; transition, the “solid wood” Paul Sampson, 1st vice president; Doug Baston, 2nd vice sector is expanding, amid president; Tom Abello, secretary; and Dan Crocker, demand for new wood building treasurer. Paul Sampson presented the nominating products. New wood-using committee report. companies are looking to locate in Maine following a decline Dan Crocker’s treasurer report depicted an in the pulp and paer industry, organization with a “sound, conservative investment Dan Crocker though paper production will strategy.” Long-time treasurer and investment still be very important. An oil manager, Bill Towle, stepped down shortly before industry specialist who serves on a Maine advisory his death last year, and the portfolio is now managed board recently called the shift from petroleum to by Bangor Savings Bank. Membership dues account wood-based products “inevitable,” including the use for 28% of revenue, Crocker said, with donations, of bioplastics – with the remaining question being especially from the Annual Appeal, adding 20%. On will Maine be competitive in the new markets. the expense side, events constitute 30%, while the newsletter and advocacy each weigh in at 15%. As to whether landowners have a right to remove tree stands and unauthorized trail cameras, Doak The Land Trust has now surpassed 5,000 acres said they do, though IF&W would prefer to monitor owned outright for the first time, while easements trail cameras to see if those placing them illegally can cover an additional 3,625 acres. Donations of two be apprehended. The Legislature is also considering new properties were completed, while harvests use of drones over private land, and related privacy were conducted or scheduled in Porter, Winthrop, concerns, while one member suggested “treating them Readfield and Brownville, and several properties like a gamebird.” A Member-Supported Organization Page 7 Maine Woodlands February 2018 Russell Black Named Outstanding Tree Farmer

Russell Black of Wilton is the Maine Outstanding production. Retired Maine Forest Service forester Bob Tree Farmer for 2018; the award was made during the Leso long ago convinced him to manage his woodland Forestry Forum by Gov. Paul LePage. Black, a four- as carefully as his farm acreage, which totals 100 acres. term legislator from Black credits Abbott Wilton, currently serves Ladd, former Maine on the Agriculture, Tree Farm Committee Conservation and member and Maine Forestry Committee. Woodland Owners executive director, for Russell worked his decision to join his grandfather’s 65- Tree Farm. The third acre woodlot in his generation of his family youth, then inherited on the land, Black, his his father’s 200 acres wife, four children and on the Black Road in 10 grandchildren all play 1973. His state award active roles. has been a long time coming; he was runner Tree Farm Chair up for the Outstanding Kyle Burdick also Tree Farmer award announced two county in 1976, and has won winners: Don Newell’s three annual Franklin 250-acre Tree Farm in County Soil and Water Unity and Thorndike, Conservation awards. which hosted a 2016 Russell Black receiving the Outstaning Tree Farmer of the Year Maine Woodland Black and his award from Governor Paul LePage. Owners/Society of family work tirelessly American Foresters to improve and expand their Tree Farm, which now workshop in 2016; and Brian and Susan Carlton of encompasses 400 acres, and has a growing Jonesboro, who’ve managed 102 acres since 2009. syrup business in addition to harvesting 150 cords Congratulations to Russell Black and the Black family. Watch this newsletter for information about the Maine Woodland Owners / Maine Tree Farm Forestry Field Day, which will be held in the fall on the property of the Black family.

Russell Black and family during the Jan. 10 awards ceremony. Timber Marking, Sales & Administration Forest Management Plans - Timber Inventory & Appraisal of firewood a year. Since 2012, he’s harvested 135,000 Tree Growth Tax Law Assistance - GPS & GIS Services board feet of white pine logs, 35,000 of , and Forest Mapping - Boundary Maintenance 650 cords of pulp. Conservation Easement Monitoring & Baseline Documentation Gregory M. Seamans Sherman R. Small 317 Allen Hill Road P.O. Box 621 Black has conducted multiple harvests over 45 Oxford, ME 04270 Bethel, ME 04217 years, but now emphasizes wildlife habitat and 207-539-8968 207-824-6122 [email protected] [email protected] improving the sugarbush. A recent chapter event on his property featured beekeeping and maple syrup FSC®Certified Resource Managers A Member-Supported Organization Page 8 Maine Woodlands February 2018 Life Lessons in Stewardship and Gratitude

Story and Photos As a bird expert, my perspective is uniquely By Bob Duchesne focused on habitat. Maine is blessed with a wide variety of birds, and each species has its habitat I started 2018 by cleaning the basement. I also niche. For instance, we have more than two dozen decluttered my inbox. In so doing, species of warblers nesting in the state – an unusually Barkyard I chanced upon an old e-mail I sent high number compared to other states. Some of our Birding to Robbins Lumber years ago. I had warblers like hardwoods, some prefer soft. Some like just done some birding on Robbins mature forest, some favor young. Some stay near the land around Nicatous ground, some never leave Lake, and I couldn’t help the canopy. but admire how well- managed their forest was. The same thing I wrote to thank them. happens with our abundance of vireos, A well-managed forest flycatchers, thrushes, is a beautiful thing. I sparrows and admire woodlands that woodpeckers. The more sustain diverse habitat, habitat diversity there is and I especially respect in a woodland, the more forestry practices that variety of birds that can prevent silting of trout be found there. streams. I see examples of great management all Even patch cuts can over the state, but what I be good for some birds. observed on the Robbins Mourning warblers are land was so extraordinary scarce and difficult to that I felt I needed to write Palm warbler find in Maine, occurring and say “thank you.” I was primarily in the northern back up there in November, and the beauty reminded part of the state. What they love best are areas that me of my earlier visit. are regenerating – areas that have dense brambles, usually with a thin overstory of young maples to Years ago, I wrote a letter to thank Baskahegan provide a little shade and additional cover. They are Company. One of their roads in Washington secretive but noisy. Invariably, I hear them before I County is among my top three favorites in the state. ever see them. The road has an unusually dense concentration of , , and red pine. This makes it attractive to In pre-colonial days, Mother Nature relied on fires, many of the northern forest birds that can be difficult floods, and beavers to open up the canopy and create to find. I’ve been visiting this road for 20 years, so I’ve habitat variety. Those conditions are now suppressed, been able to watch how fast the forest regenerates. and it’s often the who generates forest The rapid regeneration happens because Baskahegan diversity. I had the pleasure of visiting a harvest site pays great attention to using its equipment lightly, with a professional forester last year. The landowner’s so as to not damage the soil or choke regrowth with specific goal was to improve habitat for wildlife on misplaced slash. the parcel, particularly grouse. I also walked one of the state’s Wildlife Management Areas with a forester I’m currently serving my 12th year in the Legislature. from the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Although it’s rare, sometimes I get drawn into Wildlife last year. The department uses targeted debates about what the forest should look like. I’ve logging as a key in managing its woodlands for heard arguments that the Maine forest is a pristine wildlife. wilderness. It isn’t. I’ve heard arguments that trees only have value if they are harvested. I guess beauty is I can usually look at a patch of forest and know in the eye of the beholder, or maybe the imagination. what birds are likely to be present. In fact, one of A Member-Supported Organization Page 9 Maine Woodlands February 2018 my favorite pleasures is to drive the logging roads of northern Maine looking for outstanding patches. No matter what its size... Whenever I venture out the Golden Road and up Your woodlot can the Telos Road, I am keenly aware of what a be both beautiful privilege it is to recreate and profitable. on private lands, and I am forever grateful for the Maybe you’d like to create a trail, protect opportunity. a wildlife habitat, or generate some income. Or maybe you just need some professional care to keep your woodlot Such an growing strong and healthy. opportunity comes Whatever your goals, we can help you reach them. with responsibility, which I preach to other Prentiss & Carlisle Professional forest management for timberland and woodlot owners. Mourning warbler adventurous birders every chance I get,  management plans  timber harvesting including this one. I avoid active logging operations,  timber marketing stay out of the way of trucks, shun parking in the  road and bridge building  consultation and valuation wrong places, and don’t litter. I avoid damaging roads  tax and regulatory assistance in mud season, or any season. And I say thank you every chance I get, including this one. Contact one of our foresters for a free assessment

Tom Nelson, MANAGER Bob Duchesne, a legislator from Hudson, founded the Maine Scott Barnes  Brett Gerrish  Chandler Buie  Jon Scott Birding Trail (www.mainebirdingtrail.com), writes for the Dale Robinson  Damon Hartman  Tyler Scouten Bangor Daily News, and has a weekly radio show on Sports 207.942.8295 | prentissandcarlisle.com Radio 92.9. 107 Court Street | PO Box 637 | Bangor, Maine 04402-0637

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Auburn, Maine • 800.831.4230 | Presque Isle, Maine • 800.831.4640 FarmCreditEast.com A Member-Supported Organization Page 10 Maine Woodlands February 2018 From the Woods to Your Garden: Bark on the Move

By Lloyd C. Irland In 19th century , the bark went into a pile with slabs and edgings. Since most mills were at Woodlot owners, foresters, and botanists learn dams along rivers, the slabs and bark went into the to identify many trees by their bark. river where they became a hazard to navigation. In Forests You can bet wood buyers and log fact, the oldest anti-pollution law in the country was in History scalers do – by the time they see the the 1899 federal Refuse Act prohibiting dumping into log they have little else to go on! For navigable rivers. At the time few cared if there were no some species, with a bit of learning, you can use the fish or you couldn’t drink the water, but anything that got in the way of shipping? That was serious! Mills inland burned their low grade residuals in a big “tepee burner” out back, some of which can still be seen in drier parts of the West where they don’t rust away.

On the West Coast, sawmills had to do something with the mounds of stuff they could no longer dump into the Willamette or Grays Harbor. Somebody said, “There’s a lot of fiber there – let’s make paper out of it.” But papermakers dislike bark. If it gets into the pulp, it consumes chemicals and leaves specks in the sheet that customers dislike. Bark must come off before chipping or grinding. Also on the Coast, large tonnages of sawmill chips went to export buyers. Specifications Four-foot pulp: Peelers at work usually call for less than 1% bark. bark to judge how rapidly the tree is growing. So, what to do? The answer was to separate wood from bark before running the log through the sawmill. Bark is the outermost tissue of a tree or shrub that Bark goes into its own pile, and slabs and edgings, protects the living layers of the tree from dehydration, now free of bark, go into a chipper, then a truck or fire, disease, bugs, abrasion, and weather. Over the barge to the paper mill. For sawmills, this turned a years, some kinds of bark have proved very useful to humans. The bark canoe is a prime example; at one time people also made canoes using bark. The use of oak and hemlock bark for tanning leather is well known, and has been mentioned in previous articles. The bark of many shrubs is used for flavorings, medicinals, or other purposes.

Many of you have probably been in old homes or barns where the rafters or floor joists still have the bark on. Today, builders do not want bark on their two-by-fours. Bark on an edge will almost always downgrade a board. What this means is that a primary wood product manufacturing plant produces large piles of bark. What to do with it? The modern way: Grinder at HMC Corp. A Member-Supported Organization Page 11 Maine Woodlands February 2018 problem into an opportunity. Over the years, the idea spread around the country as chips gained a market price and began affecting stumpage prices. By the late 20th century, the sawmills depended on chips for significant revenue – truly a joint product, not a waste or byproduct.

Early pulp mills in the Northeast used cottonwood or ; for much of the summer the bark is readily peeled off using a bark spud. A few readers may have one in their barn. The mills moved North and relied on spruce, also peeled by hand during the summer. If you think life is hard now, think of earning a living doing that. Men are still around who can tell you about it.

Mills paid a premium to reflect the cost of peeled The business end: Commercial bark pile wood. Outside peeling season, four-foot sticks went into huge drum debarkers, where they tumbled until color – perhaps to match the color of your house! In the bark came off. A certain amount of useful fiber came Maine, local bark processing cannot fill the demand, off too. This method was not practical at sawmills. So, and at your lawn and garden store you’ll find southern from the 1960s onward, considerable innovation and pine bark. investment went into debarking wood. Yet another factor was involved. Under Ed As oil prices rose, paper mills began building Muskie’s Clean Water Act of 1972, state enforcement huge boilers to burn it for process energy. In the of water rules accelerated. Protecting groundwater 1980s, cogeneration arrived. Some of the biggest pulp became a priority. It was soon learned that bark piles mills began generating electricity and not just steam sitting outdoors for years pollute groundwater from (hence, co-generation) and could even sell what they the leachate into soil after percolating through mounds didn’t need into the grid. Next came free-standing, of bark. If this leachate could tan leather, it could also biomass-fired electric generating plants, which need tan the inside of your throat. DEP inspectors came low-grade fiber for fuel. New supply chains emerged knocking, and bark piles disappeared. Burning water- to route low-grade residuals, bark, and even yard soaked bark was unappealing, but some was taken by waste into paper mill and electric boiler systems. I the landscape contractors. was once told by a large co-generator that at some seasons they sold all the bark they produced, and then How much bark is produced in Maine? Nobody bought biomass and other fiber from others because really counts it, but we can estimate that out of every bark was too valuable to burn. ton of roundwood, 6-8% will be bark. Roughly 15 million tons are used in Maine’s plants every year. So At some point, it was noticed that bark makes total bark production must be 700,000-800,000 tons a useful mulch for lawns, gardens, and decorative per year, not counting bark in the 2.5 million tons plots around buildings or trees in parking lots. A of whole-tree (biomass) chips fed into boilers until new supply emerged, involving specialized recently. Every spring, some might be finding its way firms that bought the bark, ground or mulched it, and into your garden. shipped, in bags or bulk, to customers in suburbia. Today, every lawn and garden store displays pallets Author Michael Wojtech recently published a of bagged bark, and if you need it in volume, you can charming book, Bark: A Field Guide to the Trees of the get bulk delivery. Demand for bark became so great Northeast, which many Maine Woodlands readers will that contractors actually mined paper mill bark piles enjoy, including a presentation made at the Forestry for landscape mulch. This was sold, unbelievably, as Forum on Jan. 10. “bark stumpage.” Lloyd Irland, forestry consultant, teacher and writer, lives in Some landscapers and homeowners are particular. Wayne. He is the author of The Northeast’s Changing Forest, Your supplier can now offer bark mulch tinted by and his interest in history dates back to college. A Member-Supported Organization Page 12 Maine Woodlands February 2018 Ought to Be a Crime? A History of Trespassing By George Smith Mitchell acknowledges that because of his childhood experiences, he became, as an adult, “a When I was a kid, we hunted all over Winthrop notorious trespasser.” He was and surrounding towns, never concerned about who “periodically stopped and harangued owned the lands. I don’t recall ever by local landholders, and occasionally Around seeing a “No Trespassing” sign. by the police.” and About Boy, things have changed. Today, I urge hunters, hikers, anglers, All of that led to this book, “an and all others who enjoy someone else’s land to get attempt to better understand” how permission, even if the land is not posted. I only hunt private land became “forbidden these days where I have permission. territory.” Well, he certainly does that. I was fascinated as he examined We must recognize that hunters are a minority land ownership in other countries. Apparently in Maine, and a shrinking minority at that, so we “control of land has been a source of contention” must focus on building alliances with non-hunters, throughout history, and the world. including private landowners, if our favorite outdoor activity is going to survive and flourish. The story starts in the 17th Century, and moves from there to the late 20th Century, focusing on a plot Knowing this, I was eager to pick up a copy of of land where “some thirty generations of Indians, Trespassing, by John Hanson Mitchell. The book, English, and Americans have lived on the site.” There’s subtitled, “An Inquiry into the Private Ownership of a large cast of characters, from “The Green Man,” a Land,” was given as a premium by Maine Woodland benign forest-dwelling figure, half-animal, half-man, Owners to all who donated $200 or more to the annual to Linda Cantillon, an “employee at the local school appeal. cafeteria who halted a million-dollar development project west of the Christian Indian village site.” Mitchell is an impressive guy, including his John Burroughs Award for nature essays. He’s also I especially liked the way Mitchell focused his the founder and editor of Sanctuary magazine. His story on a particular place. That helped me understand childhood was a lot like mine: “I was born and raised the changes that have occurred over several centuries in a town that seemed to have no clear demarcation in land ownership, and landowner rights. You will of property. Kids wandered at large there, setting out particularly enjoy chapters like “Should Trees Have after breakfast and ranging through private backyards Standing?” and “The Intelligence of Salamanders.” But and gardens and, as in my case, spending hours in a the entire book is interesting and informative, and you wooded plot of private land we regarded as our own will finish with a much better understanding of the Sherwood Forest.” concept of land ownership – and trespassing.

Outdoors writer George Smith, who lives in Mount Vernon, BruceBruce Wilkins, ConsultingConsulting Forester Forester offers more news at www.georgesmithmaine.com. Woodlot Management Services Woodlot Managementsince 1985 Services since 1985 As a reminder, this book, “Trespassing; An Inquiry Serving forest landowners throughout Aroostook & Serving forest landowners throughout Aroostook & Northern Penobscot Counties. into Private Ownership of Land” is our thank you gift for Northern Penobscot Counties anyone who contributes $200 or more to our Annual SpecializingSpecializing in long-term in long-term stewardship stewardship of private of private woodlands woodlands Appeal. (For a contribution of $100 or more you Management Plans Tree Growth Tax NRCS ProgramsManagement Plans TimberTree Sales Growth Tax can receive the poplar Delorme “Maine Atlas and Custom NRCSMapping Programs GPS Timber& GIS Sales Gazetteer”). Our Annual Appeal runs until May 1st so BoundaryCustom Marking Mapping GPS & GIS Boundary Marking there is still time to pick up one of these gifts. Annual POPO BoxBox 988 988 Appeal contributions can be made on our website PresquePresque Isle, Isle, MEME 04769 04769 www.mainewoodlandowners.org or by mailing a (207)764-4728(207)455-2029 [email protected]@maine.rr.com check to our Augusta office (please indicate Annual Appeal on the memo line). A Member-Supported Organization Page 13 Maine Woodlands February 2018 New Red Oak Guide We Are Almost There! Available to Landowners

A new guide to one of Maine’s premier hardwood species, northern red oak (Quercus rubra L.), has just been published by University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension. (See below for details.)

Red oak occurs naturally throughout New England. It contributes to our woodlot landscapes, and is a high-value species both for timber and wildlife. This new publication brings together the knowledge of five experienced forest scientists, and incorporates the information from 140 cited references The annual appeal is moving closer to its goal. on red oak ecology, Contributions will be accepted through spring, so management, and please consider a donation. If you’ve already given, habitat. many thanks.

The content is well-organized and includes strong sections on regeneration, growth and yield, silviculture prescriptions, and wildlife considerations. It is a comprehensive literature review from which woodland owners can distill a broad range of information for improving red oak composition of woodlots in New England.

A free copy can be obtained via e-mail to annarie. [email protected] . Be sure to include your postal address with your request.

[Leak, W, B., M. Yamasaki, J. S. Ward, K. Demarais, and K. P. Bennett. 2017. Ecology and Management of Northern Red Oak in New England. University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension, Durham, NH 03824. 50 pp.]

– Maxwell McCormack

Need a Bush Scythe for your wood lot? A perfect tool for saplings & young unwanted growth. Scythe Supply is a Maine Business selling and promoting the European Scythe. www.scythesupply.com or 207-853-4750 A Member-Supported Organization Page 14 Maine Woodlands February 2018 Combining Business and Pleasure in Winter Woods By Maxwell McCormack Along with the usual hiking gear, I like to have a map or satellite image for navigating and making My best pleasure walks in the woods are on site-specific notes, such as points of interest, growth snowshoes, atop a comfortable conditions, and cultural needs. Be prepared to mark Practical snow pack on a clear, crisp, locations and individual trees; bright colored flagging Silviculture Fahrenheit temperatures-in-the- works well. A small pruning saw is handy, and anvil- teens day with minimal wind. type hand pruners. The pruning are useful in Mornings are superb, but evenings, with a full moon trimming trailside growth that might not be reachable coming into glow, are ecstasy as the soft crunching without the snow. Occasional, strategic pruning of rhythm of footsteps breaks the snow-muffled silence. limbs helps mark trail routes and designate future A personal woodlot is a physical and mental health crop trees. club. It’s not only the trees. Animal tracks mark fresh It’s that time of year. Insect-free, easy access snow, showing the presence and movements of a offers premier conditions for enjoying visual updates variety of woodlot residents. Deer are most obvious, on your woodlots. Take advantage of the winter and readily betray feeding spots. Wing prints in the opportunities for keeping in touch, and carrying out snow trigger imaginative thoughts; there may be piles routine property line monitoring. Modern camera of wood chips generated by a woodpecker. One winter capabilities facilitate incorporating winter shots of we had a superb trail compacted by turkeys. photo points. No established photo points? Select key locations on the ground, mark them, and establish the As you trek along, stop often, and look up. Check best angles for continuing photos. Include references: hardwoods for crown defects and upper bole quality. large rocks, ledges, or specimen trees. Project stands five, 10 or 20 years ahead while you have the long-distance winter views, and less understory

Whether it is maximizing your timber Are you a landowner who wants to . . . investment or improving woodlot productivity, we can help you reach Enjoy and protect your management goals! your woods? v Walk, ski, or ride, while exploring your corner of Maine. v Improve the health of your woods and its bird and wildlife habitats. Offering Services in: Sappi Fine Paper North America Sustainable Forestry Program – v Protect your privacy, while conserving the Management Plans Working Together for Maine’s Forests land and its features. Timber Harvests Sappi Fine Paper North America’s Sustainable Forestry Pro- Forest Consultation gram provides highly trained forest professionals, reliable Timber Marketing and competitive pulpwood markets, as well as an extensive network of marketing resources to generate the most income We can help prioritize Regulatory & Taxation Assistance from your timber. The program also offers Forest Stewardship and guide your actions. Council® Group Forest Management Certification. Forest Certification GIS/GPS Capabilities Jon Doty, NOW IN Farmington Wildlife Habitat Management Sappi Fine Paper North America 165 North Avenue, Suite 1 (207) 612-6823 Providing professional Skowhegan, Maine 04976 timberland and woodlot Office: (207) 858-4201 Harold Burnett, Winthrop management regardless Fax: (207) 858-4220 (207) 377-7196 of the property size. [email protected] www.twotreesforestry.com www.sappimeforestry.com A Member-Supported Organization Page 15 Maine Woodlands February 2018 foliage. Speculate the best Winter snow bets for final crop trees in conditions also the mature stand. Will provide benefits when they have room to grow applying herbicide and to disperse future stem treatments. seed crops for natural This can include pre- regeneration? commercial thinning in dense stands, As you make these releasing softwood analytical observations, regeneration by treating note stand growth overstory hardwoods, developments and reducing soft maple changes since you last components to favor passed. Do conditions desirable hardwood match your management species, or removing plan, or are developments Nicely packed snowshoe trail along rough skid trail diseased . something to be provides smooth travelling. considered in your next 10-year revision? For these treatments it’s best to avoid extremely cold conditions, but mild winter days on good snow In addition to opportunities for pleasant winter cover provide comfortable conditions for targeting walks through the woods, the open conditions and stems and applying treatments. And your tracks in snow depth are advantageous for pruning crop trees. the snow provide a record of which areas have been Visibility and mobility is better, and trees are better treated. Take advantage of the opportunities – and able to withstand wounding. The deeper the snow, enjoy the winter. the higher you go. It can make a difference in reaching up with a pole saw to prune the upper ends of Max McCormack is research professor emeritus, University of future logs. Maine, and lives in Unity. E-mail: [email protected]

Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) is a program that provides a convenient way to ask questions regarding specific forestry activities.

SFI commits to: Forestry Hotline:

 Include public concerns in the Do you have questions about a forest management of industrial forestlands harvest in your neighborhood? If so, we and foster the same philosophy on invite you to call 1-888-SFI-GOAL (1-888- non-industrial forestlands. 734-4625).

 Inform the public about sound forestry This call-in service, although not an practices already in place. This enforcement program, will help Maine’s program is important for all of us: SFI companies better understand issues loggers, landowners, wood buyers of public concern and identify problem and the public. areas for improvement.

For more information on The Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) www.sfimaine.org www.sfiprogram.org

A Member-Supported Organization Page 16 Maine Woodlands February 2018 Must-Have E-Tools for Every Taste

By Casey Olechnowicz Forinsects This online North American guidebook was Apps are becoming some of the most useful created by the U.S. Forest Service as a tool to tools woodland owners can carry in their arsenal, identify and learn more about common forest pests so as long as they are equipped with a smartphone and diseases. Forinsects has detailed photographs or tablet (See December and January issues.) There of the insects and pests, along with images of what are hundreds of apps that can aid woodland owners the damage to trees looks like. The app also includes with tree identification, tree measurements, mapping different fact sheets and articles, and is free for iOS and GPS, invasive species identification, and many and Android. other management goals. To help woodland owners start building an effective app toolkit, here are what I consider to be the “Top 10” apps for woodland activities. Best SkyView Apps From all the stargazing apps on the market, SkyView is a unique “augmented reality” app where for Maine Woodland Owners you can view all the stars and objects of the night sky through your device’s camera in your real-world environment. One major highlight of this app is TickCheck ID that it’s both free and available for iOS and Android This is is the most innovative tick app on the market, devices. The app has hundreds of astronomical objects providing not only images and guides to various tick you can search for, and the app will point to where species in North America, but information on tick those objects are in your night sky. removal, tick diseases, and a free tick identification service. TickCheck ID allows you to submit a photo Planimeter of a tick, and an expert will respond in one or two While the world of forest measurement apps is business days regarding the species. The app also much thinner, Planimeter stands out as a useful GPS offers resources for users to send ticks into a lab for measurement tool that excels in accuracy. The app disease testing, for a fee. The app is free for Android can measure the distances and areas of any location devices only; for Apple users, TickID is a simple based on satellite imagery. It differs from other GPS alternative, with educational images and information measurement apps in that it allows users to take about the three most common tick species in America. notes, place pins, share or save maps you’ve created, as well as upload information from the app onto Roger’s Mushrooms Google Earth. For Android devices this app is $2.99, This is the most comprehensive mushroom ID and for iOS, $7.99. If you’re looking for a free app that and guidebook app available, and includes detailed includes some of the features of Planimeter, GPS Field drawings and photographs of every mushroom Area Measure is a good alternative. species you can think of. Each species comes with a description of the characteristics, and where to find LeafsnapHD the mushrooms, and the app has a cookbook with A large North American tree database and photo recipes for any edible mushrooms you might find. ID tool, LeafsnapHD allows you to view detailed Roger’s Mushrooms is available in a free “lite” version photographs of tree leaves, needles, branches, flowers, for both iOS and Android users, but it’s limited in bark, seeds, cones, and petioles to identify any tree. comparison with the full version, which sells for $4.99. You can take photos of trees, label them, and pin them on a map within the app as well. The instant Avenza Maps photo ID feature of this app is not overly reliable, but One of the most popular mapping apps, Avenza it still remains one of the more comprehensive tree Maps allows you to download and view hundreds identification guide apps on the market, and is free for of maps of practically any location in the U.S. Types iOS and Android devices. of maps range from remote imagery and topographic A Member-Supported Organization Page 17 Maine Woodlands February 2018 maps, to simple satellite images. Once downloaded, these maps can even be viewed offline, and the app comes with the functionality to record GPS pins, tracks, notes, and to measure distances. Many of the maps are free, or available for a small charge, and the app itself is free for both iOS and Android. Merlin One of the most underrated birding apps available, Merlin has a guidebook similar to the comprehensive Audubon and Peterson bird apps. Where Merlin stands out is its location-based identification tool, detailed photographic images, range maps, and a huge database of bird calls and sounds. The app is location based, so it narrows the birds you can view based on your region, making it very simple to sort through. The app is free for Android users; for any Apple users looking for an alternative, Audubon Birds and Peterson Birds still are exceptional, and free. WeatherUnderground There are hundreds of weather apps on the market today, so it can be difficult to narrow down an app that stands out. Weather Underground meets this test on sheer forecasting accuracy alone, providing localized weather forecasts from a few of the thousands of weather stations it utilizes across the globe. The app allows you to choose activities you like, such as hiking or fishing, and assesses the weather conditions for those specific interests. It also automatically assesses whether there are conditions present for notable weather events, such as ice accumulation, lightning, or wildfire. It’s one of the more detailed and comprehensive apps out there, while remaining simple enough so it’s not overwhelming for users. It’s free for iOS and Android. Reader Forest Management LLC About My Woods Serving Forest Landowners in Maine & New Hampshire While each of the apps previously mentioned are good at helping with one category of woodland Specializing in: activities, About My Woods excels in several. It’s • Forest Management Plans for Maine’s Tree Growth designed as a helpful tool for woodland owners in Tax Law, NRCS, and MFS WoodsWise program New England, and succeeds by providing woodland • Timber Harvesting - from start to finish owners information and images of all types of flora and • GIS Mapping using GPS and color aerial photos fauna they would expect to find on their land, based • Boundary Line Maintenance • on the apps location filter. It can also assist in finding Timber Inventory & Valuation • Tree Farm Certification a nearby forester. Currently, this app is available for free on all Android products, and Apple smartphones. Brian Reader LPF #3538 24 Otter Drive, N. Waterboro, ME 04061 Casey Olechnowicz is a UMaine School of Forest Resources 207-205-5917 graduate student. He comes from a military family that moved Email: [email protected] frequently, but was shaped by his time living in Eliot. www.readerforestmanagement.com Like us on facebook A Member-Supported Organization Page 18 Maine Woodlands February 2018 Roots and Branches Two Rivers Dealing with Beech Bark Disease News From the Chapters Saturday, Feb. 24, 8:30 a.m.-noon Viles Arboretum, 153 Hospital St., Augusta Upper Kennebec Valley A half-day workshop on understanding beech bark disease (BBD) in Maine hardwood stands will Tour the Active Harvest be led by Maxwell McCormack, Maine Woodlands Saturday, Feb. 10, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. silvicultural columnist and retired research professor Yankee Woodlot, Skowhegan at the University of Maine. This is an opportunity to learn more about one of Maine’s most common The state-owned Yankee Woodlot Demonstration hardwoods, but one whose presence in the forest Forest is in the second year of a two-year harvest now creates management dilemmas for landowners. schedule. Come see the equipment, meet with the Topics will include BBD impacts on forest stand managing team and contractor, and ask any questions dynamics, treatment options, types and application of you might have about harvesting. This is an informal herbicides, and what to expect for outcomes. There session to allow folks to walk an active harvest, and will be time for informal discussion during breaks and learn why things are done the way they are. We’ll at the end of the session. Contact: Jeanne Siviski at meet at the Somerset County Cooperative Extension 626-0005 or [email protected] Office, 7 County Drive, Skowhegan. Please be prepared for the weather. Contact: Patty Cormier at 592-2238 or [email protected] UKV Plans 2018 Events

Upper Kennebec Valley Following dinner at Bob and Mary Burr’s Farm Apple Pruning to Table restaurant in Mercer, the Upper Kennebec Sunday, Feb., 18, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Valley Chapter planned monthly events for the rest Yankee Woodlot, Skowhegan of the year, including those listed on this page. The schedule is subject to change; dates and events will Back by popular demand, the Yankee Woodlot be listed here, on the Maine Woodland Owners is the place to be if you’d like to learn how to prune website, and with the Maine Forest Service. apple trees in your yard or woodlot, and brush up on pruning skills. Apple tree enthusiast Joe Dembeck March: Forester Pete Tracy will return for another will discuss methods and tools used to prune apple workshop on maintenance, filing and trees to increase their viability and production. After troubleshooting. a brief indoor overview, participants will head out to March: Marketing of Wood Products, New Sharon learn, and test their skills. Dress warmly, and feel free log yard. to bring your own pruning equipment. There will be April: Pruning and Thinning your trees, concepts pole , hand saws and loppers to try. Registration and practical applications at the Holt woodlot in is required, and limited to 20 participants. Contact: Mercer Joe Dembeck at 474-8323 ext. 3 or joseph.dembeck@ May: After the Harvest, at the Yankee Woodlot in me.nacdnet.net. Sponsored by Somerset County Soil Skowhegan. and Water Conservation District, Somerset County June: Mapping and GPS with smartphones, and Cooperative Extension, and Maine Woodland easy applications for landowners. Owners. The Somerset County Cooperative Extension July: Invasive Plant ID and management, with Joe Office is at 7 County Drive. Dembeck and Maine Natural Areas Program. August: Tools for the woodland owner, with a practical look at what’s out there for managing the

Forestry Services in Down East Maine woodlot. Forest management plans, tree growth certification, October: Stream Crossings in Starks. We’ll see why MFS Woodwise plans, inventory, & other services it is better to do them right the first time. Thomas Dodd, LF#407 December: Forest Management Plans; how to make www.acadiaforestry.com or 207-779-7739 it a working document, not a dust collector.

A Member-Supported Organization Page 19 Maine Woodlands February 2018

New Members Polo Shirts With our Logo January

Central Maine Southern Maine Stanley E. Watson Anthony Butts Andy and Heather Seymour Down East Wajih and Virginia Yazbeck Alex Blair Polo shirts are 50% preshrunk cotton, 50% Randy Elden polyester, with our logo embroidered on front. Out of State Gray or navy. Sizes: M,L, XL, XXL. $25 if picking Trevor M. Evans up at the office, $29 if mailed. MidCoast Bill and Joan Alley Elizabeth Bickford Mike Leahy and Gail Frazier Name: ______David Paffhausen Tym and Leslie Park Address: ______Upper Kennebec Valley Penobscot Valley Trent Emery Tyler Barrall Send your request, mailing information and Seth Emery Alexis A. Jones payment to: Maine Woodland Owners, PO Box Joshua Sweet Juan R. Ortiz 836, Augusta, ME 04332-0836, or order online at www.mainewoodlandowners.org Western Maine Two Rivers Carlton N. Brown David and Lisbeth Murphy If picking up merchandise, you can find us at 153 Hospital St., Augusta. We are located in the Viles Arboretum building. Nonprofit Organization US Postage Paid Permit No. 129 Augusta, ME

153 Hospital Street PO Box 836 Augusta, ME 04332-0836

February 2018

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

Going, Going: Top White Pine Due for Removal By Jan Santerre The double-topped tree is slowly spreading, and thus poses a danger to motorists passing by. If you want Eastern white pine (Pinus strobus) has been an to get a glimpse at this tree, and the window into important tree for the people of history that comes with it, you should make the trip Champion what is now soon. The Maine Department of Trees the State of Transportation plans to remove Maine for the tree later this year. While hundreds, possibly thousands certainly not the end one would of years. As citizens of the “Pine wish for the tree, the overall Tree State,” it’s no wonder health and need for removal we take pride regarding this attests to the reasoning behind particular species. Since the the lack of legal protection for first publication of the “Maine such trees. When the time comes, Register of Big Trees” in 1968, owners and managers need the only two trees have been listed in flexibility to be able to remove this category. trees that pose a danger to the public. The first was a tree known as the “Punch Bowl pine,” located To determine if a tree is a in Blanchard, and listed in 1970 champion, the Maine Forest as the National Champion in this Service gives each tree a score category. Then, when the top based on a formula that adds blew out of the 147-foot giant, circumference in inches, height the current champion in Morrill in feet, and ¼ of the crown spread took over, in 1979. Since then, the in feet. The Morrill pine has a Close to the highway, this state record- Morrill pine has had several runs holder will be cut down in 2018. circumference of 245 inches (dbh at National Champion status, as = 6.5 feet), a height of 125 feet, and well as maintaining its state status. The tree stands an average crown spread of 78 feet for a total point guard, practically in the roadway along state Route value of 390. Since nomination, the tree has gained 131, just south of the Bowen farmstead. more than 40 points.

For at least 225 years, according to farm records For more on Maine’s Register of Big Trees, contact Jan and recollections, the tree has dodged the dangers of Santerre, coordinator, at 800-367-0223, or visit: http:// both nature and humanity. While a testament to the projectcanopy.maine.gov strength of the mighty pine, time has taken its toll.