(Copyright Tennessee Timber
Consultants. All rights reserved
OBJECTIVE
To attain a very high rate of growth
and income through a long term forestry investment by establishing and
harvesting a fully stocked stand within which most or all trees meet certain
technical standards, including size and quality, making each of them highly
desirable for trading in domestic, but more especially, export markets. The stand could provide periodic income as a
secondary objective through the sale of surplus trees with below average
potential for developing into premium individuals.
STRATEGY
A long-term investment approach to
take full advantage of the sharp nationwide decline in the supply of, and
increased domestic and overseas demand for high value hardwoods. To use existing, naturally occurring
hardwoods on productive upland sites as primary assets for establishing the stand. To identify and develop an optimum number of
trees with high value and yield characteristics. Periodic sales and removals of surplus, low value trees, a
secondary objective, shall not be conducted if harvesting activities have the
potential of damaging or reducing the numbers or the yield of high value
individuals. High value hardwoods will
be sold in one final harvest, and in accordance with knowledgeable marketing
strategies to access export and specialty markets.
ASSOCIATED
BENEFITS
Many woodland wildlife species
require habitat found only in older stands of upland hardwoods. Benefits include high crowns for nesting
needed by both game and non-game species, and high protein sources of food. Shaded understories provide optimum
conditions for the long-term development of shrubs, herbs, ferns and
wildflowers. Stands of stately
hardwoods provide scenic values, and recreational opportunities.
COST
An advantage of this investment is
establishing the stand using naturally occurring hardwoods. Following the final harvest of all trees,
some site preparation costs may be needed to create optimum conditions for
establishing the next generation of high value trees. Infrequent, low cost improvement measures may be required to
remove competing trees with no value, or damaging vines. Added costs include consulting forestry and
legal fees, administrative costs and taxes.
|
CATEGORY |
LEVEL |
GREATEST
CONCERNS |
|
Environmental |
Low |
Windstorms
can cause partial or total damage, but occur infrequently. |
|
Management
Complexity |
Low |
Improper
harvests to generate short term cash will significantly reduce long term
returns. Grazing livestock will
seriously damage hardwood stands. Failure
to use a marketing specialist will dramatically reduce income. |
|
Market
Trends |
Low |
Short
term demand, especially for export markets, must be monitored very closely. |
|
Human
Intervention |
Low |
Wildfire
risks must be assessed locally, but are generally low. Timber thieves most often target very
valuable trees such as are found in these stands. |
(Copyright Tennessee Timber
Consultants. All rights reserved
OBJECTIVE
To attain a high rate of growth and
income through a long term forestry investment by establishing and harvesting a
fully vested stand of trees meeting certain technical standards, including size
and quality, making them highly desirable for trading in domestic sawlog
markets. The stand will provide
periodic income as a secondary objective through the sale of surplus trees with
below average potential for developing into average or high quality
sawtimber. These stands differ from
International Hardwood Stands in that they do not contain the species and
quality of trees required for export markets.
STRATEGY
A long-term investment approach to
take advantage of the sharp, state wide decline in, and demand for, average
quality and above hardwood sawtimber.
To use naturally occurring hardwoods on productive upland soils as
primary assets for establishing the stand.
To identify and develop an optimum number of trees with high value and
yield characteristics. Periodic
removals of low value trees shall not be conducted if harvesting activities
have the potential of damaging, or reducing the numbers of, high value
individuals. All high quality trees
will be removed in one final harvest. Marketing strategies must be utilized
with full ASSOCIATED BENEFITS
Many woodland wildlife species
require habitat found only in older stands of upland hardwoods. Benefits include high crowns for nesting
needed by both game and non-game species, and high protein sources of
food. Shaded understories provide
optimum conditions for the long-term development of shrubs, herbs, ferns and
wildflowers. Stands of stately hardwoods
provide scenic values, and recreational opportunities.
COST
An advantage of this investment is
establishing the stand using naturally occurring hardwoods. Following the final harvest of all trees,
some site preparation costs may be needed to create optimum conditions for
establishing the next generation of high value trees. Site preparation costs can be mitigated by marketing small and
low value trees for pulpwood or chipwood at the time of final harvest. Infrequent, low-cost improvement measures
may be appropriate from time to time to remove low value trees or damaging
vines. Added costs include consulting
forestry and legal fees, administrative costs and taxes.
|
CATEGORY |
LEVEL |
GREATEST
CONCERNS |
|
Environmental |
Low |
Windstorms
can cause partial or total damage, but occur infrequently. |
|
Management
Complexity |
Low |
Improper
harvests to generate short term cash will significantly reduce long term
returns. Grazing livestock will
seriously damage hardwood stands. Failure
to use a marketing specialist will dramatically reduce income. |
|
Market
Trends |
Low |
Short
term demand, and market conditions, must be monitored very closely. |
|
Human
Intervention |
Low |
Wildfire
risks must be assessed locally, but are generally low. |
(Copyright Tennessee Timber
Consultants. All rights reserved
OBJECTIVE
To accept a low rate of return
through growth and income on a long-term forestry investment by maintaining a
low quality stand of upland hardwoods where site conditions are not suitable
for growing hardwoods with higher values.
Wood products produced in these stands will be sold in low value markets
such as chipwood, crossties, and pallet lumber. Returns could be enhanced quite dramatically in some areas of the
State by changing the definition of these stands through planting a more
valuable species such as loblolly or white pine.
STRATEGY
To conduct harvests periodically on
an opportunity basis. Tree growth will
be very slow, volumes low, and the species found will have little economic
value other than in local, low value markets such as for cross ties, pallets,
crating material, and chipwood.
Tennessee has a vast surplus of this type of wood, so supply and demand
factors are not driving prices higher at a rate much, if any, above normal
inflation. Never the less, sales should
be carried out in accordance with professional marketing strategies.
ASSOCIATED
BENEFITS
The majority of these stands will
contain a high number of low value oaks that produce acorns used by many native
wildlife species. Periodic harvests
also allow for the development of browse and cover habitat. Mature trees in these stands do not reach
the majestic heights of those found in better locations, but do provide similar
scenic benefits. These stands can serve
a valuable role as fire breaks when they are adjacent to more valuable, but
also more volatile stands of pine.
COST
The biggest cost associated with
these stands is the loss of potential income had a more valuable species been
planted. The low potential value of the
stand does not warrant costs associated with establishment or periodic
improvement practices. While it is
always wise to consult with a marketing specialist, when very few acres or very
low incomes are involved, forestry consultants may opt out of conducting the sale. Legal fees, administrative costs, and taxes
will apply.
|
CATEGORY |
LEVEL |
GREATEST
CONCERNS |
|
Environmental |
Low |
Windstorms
can cause partial or total damage, but occur infrequently. |
|
Management
Complexity |
Low |
Grazing
livestock will seriously damage hardwood stands. Failure to use a marketing specialist will dramatically reduce
income. |
|
Market
Trends |
Low |
Short
term demand, and market conditions, must be monitored very closely. Low quality hardwood markets fluctuate
significantly. |
|
Human
Intervention |
Low |
Wildfire
risks must be assessed locally, but are generally low. |
(Copyright Tennessee Timber
Consultants. All rights reserved
OBJECTIVE
To attain a high rate of return by
establishing, maintaining, and harvesting short rotations of high production
southern yellow pine stands used primarily by the pulp and paper industry. Loblolly pine is the species of choice for
top production performance in most regions of Tennessee, although climatic
conditions might dictate the use of virginia or shortleaf pines in cool or
mountainous areas.
STRATEGY
To identify open lands or hardwood
areas with very low productive capabilities for planting genetically improved
pine seedlings at optimum spacings to maximize fiber production over a short
term. At the earliest possible age, all
trees in the stand will be removed in a single harvest. The sale must be conducted with full
knowledge of current market conditions, and comply with accepted professional
marketing strategies.
ASSOCIATED
BENEFITS
Short rotation yellow pine stands
can be utilized in combination with other stand types to provide habitat
diversity for some species of wildlife.
Young stands often provide good habitat for quail and other small game
species, and as they age, they provide cover and winter shelter. Periodic prescribed burning in these stands
after age 10 enhances their wildlife values particularly for quail, deer,
turkey, and grouse. Loblolly pine is especially
valuable and well suited for planting on old fields and gullies to control soil
erosion.
COST
Most costs are associated with
establishing the stand to include the cost of seedlings, preparing the site for
planting, controlling competing vegetation, and paying for the planting. Intermediate herbicide applications may be
necessary depending upon the development of hardwood competition. Costs are commonly associated with periodic
prescribed burning to improve wildlife habitat.
|
CATEGORY |
LEVEL |
GREATEST
CONCERNS |
|
Environmental |
Medium |
Drought
conditions can reduce seedling survival during the year in which the stand is
planted. Insect pests can affect the
stand at each stage in its development.
Ice and snow damage can be severe in pine stands. |
|
Management
Complexity |
Medium |
Failing
to plant the seedlings properly will reduce seedling survival and
growth. Failing to properly control herbaceous
and woody competition will reduce seedling survival and production rates. |
|
Market
Trends |
Low |
Demand
and associated prices have generally been on an upward trend for many
years. However, short-term market prices
must be evaluated prior to carrying out a sale. |
|
Human
Intervention |
Low |
Wildfire
risks must be assessed locally, but are generally low. |
(Copyright Tennessee Timber
Consultants. All rights reserved
OBJECTIVE
To attain a high rate of growth and
income from a medium term upland yellow pine investment established for the
maximum production of pine sawtimber.
Loblolly pine is the species of choice for most areas of Tennessee,
although shortleaf pine may be more suitable in a few northern counties or
mountainous regions. To take advantage
of national trends indicating that southern yellow pine construction grade
lumber shall continue to be in great demand while available supplies remain
relatively constant. Certain
individuals may meet quality standards which make them candidates for sale in
even higher value pine pole markets.
Intermediate harvests to remove pine pulpwood and small sawlogs shall be
carried out to maintain optimum stocking and growth levels, and provide a
secondary, periodic source for income.
STRATEGY
To develop pine stands in open areas
or replace low value hardwoods on relatively arid upland sites. Stands will be planted with genetically
superior seedlings on optimum spacings to maximize production and yield. Periodic thinnings will be conducted to
remove either rows of trees or individuals with little potential for developing
into high value sawtimber. At maturity,
all remaining trees shall be removed in one final harvest. All sales must be conducted with full
knowledge of current market conditions, and should comply with accepted
professional marketing strategies.
ASSOCIATED
BENEFITS
Young pine stands provide desirable
habitat for quail and other small game.
As stands mature, they provide escape cover and winter shelter for many
species. Older stands should be periodically
burned to maximize their benefits to wildlife including quail, deer, turkey,
and grouse. Of all of the tree seeds
used by wildlife throughout the South, wildlife biologists rank pine seeds
second only to acorns in importance.
Stands of tall, stately pines add diversity for wildlife and visual
quality.
COST
Costs are primarily associated with
establishing the stand. Those being,
purchasing genetically improved seedlings, preparing the site for planting, the
actual planting procedure, and controlling competing vegetation. Occasionally it is necessary after a few
years to apply herbicides to release the young trees from competing hardwood
vegetation. Periodic prescribed burning
for wildlife has associated costs, but also the associated benefit of reducing
potential damage from wildfires.
|
CATEGORY |
LEVEL |
GREATEST
CONCERNS |
|
Environmental |
Medium |
Drought
conditions can reduce seedling survival in the year in which they are
planted. Insect pests can devastate
pine stands, and the probability of damage by southern pine beetles increases
with stocking density and stand age.
Ice and snow damage can be severe in pine stands. |
|
Management
Complexity |
Medium |
Failing
to plant the seedlings properly will reduce seedling survival and
growth. Failing to properly control herbaceous
and woody competition will reduce seedling survival and production rates. Intermediate
thinnings must be conducted at the right time in the right way to maximize
income and maintain appropriate production rates. |
|
Market
Trends |
Medium |
Pine
prices have generally been increasing, but prices can fluctuate wildly over
the short term. Local market
conditions should be carefully evaluated prior to all timber sales. |
|
Human
Intervention |
Low |
Wildfire
risks must be assessed locally, but are generally low. |
(Copyright Tennessee Timber
Consultants. All rights reserved
OBJECTIVE
To realize a very high rate of
growth and income by establishing, developing and harvesting a stand of
loblolly pine sawtimber specifically targeted for an extremely productive
bottomland site. To maximize yields
through an intermediate term investment by planting tree seedlings in
bottomland fields with the ultimate aim of selling mature trees in high value
sawtimber and pine pole markets.
Periodic thinnings shall provide secondary income while maintaining
optimum stocking levels, maximizing volume and quality production, and assuring
full site utilization.
STRATEGY
To plant genetically improved
loblolly pine seedlings in highly productive bottomland fields to provide
maximum returns on investment through a medium term timber management
scenario. Periodic thinnings shall be
carried out to assure the continued optimal growth and development of a proper
number of remaining trees with the potential to develop into high value
individuals. Initial thinnings may
remove rows of trees for sale to the pulp and paper industry. Subsequent thinnings should be designed to
identify and remove only those trees with the poorest characteristics. All thinnings shall contain some pulpwood,
although those conducted later in the rotation should very likely include a
significant amount of small sawtimber.
At maturity, all trees remaining in the stand shall be removed in one
final harvest. All sales must be
conducted with full knowledge of current market conditions, and within the
framework of professionally administered timber sale procedures.
ASSOCIATED
BENEFITS
Under favorable management, loblolly
pine stands offer a multitude of wildlife habitat benefits for a wide variety
of species. Young stands provide
excellent habitat for quail and other small game species and later develop
cover and winter shelter for many animals.
Older stands provide understory browse for deer, pine seeds used by many
species of birds, and insect foraging areas for turkey poults. Ideally, older stands should be periodically
burned to provide optimum benefits.
Stands of tall, stately loblolly pines, after they are burned several
times, create an almost park-like atmosphere.
COST
Costs
are primarily associated with establishing the stand including purchasing
genetically improved loblolly pine seedlings, preparing the site for planting,
the planting procedure itself, and the control of competing vegetation. It might be necessary to apply herbicides
after a few years to again release the seedlings from competing herbaceous and
woody vegetation. Periodic burning for
wildlife benefits has associated costs.
|
CATEGORY |
LEVEL |
GREATEST
CONCERNS |
|
Environmental |
Medium |
Drought
conditions can reduce seedling survival in the year in which they are
planted. Insect pests can devastate
pine stands, and the probability of damage by southern pine beetles increases
with stocking density and stand age.
Ice and snow damage can be severe in pine stands. |
|
Management
Complexity |
Medium |
Failing
to plant the seedlings properly will reduce seedling survival and
growth. Failing to properly control herbaceous
and woody competition will reduce seedling survival and production rates. Intermediate
thinnings must be conducted at the right time in the right way to maximize
income and maintain appropriate production rates. |
|
Market
Trends |
Medium |
Pine
prices have generally been increasing, but prices can fluctuate wildly over
the short term. Local market
conditions should be carefully evaluated prior to all timber sales. |
|
Human
Intervention |
Low |
Wildfire
risks must be assessed locally, but are generally low. |
(Copyright Tennessee Timber
Consultants. All rights reserved
OBJECTIVE
To attain a very high rate of growth
and income from a long-term bottomland hardwood forestry investment. To establish, develop, and harvest a fully
vested stand within which most or all trees meet certain technical standards,
including size and quality, making them highly desirable for trading in
domestic, but more especially, export markets.
The stand could provide periodic income as a secondary objective by
removing surplus trees with below average potential for developing into premium
individuals.
STRATEGY
A long-term investment approach to
take full advantage of the sharp nationwide decline in the supply of, and
increasing domestic and overseas demand for, high quality bottomland hardwood
timber products. To use naturally
occurring hardwoods on bottomland sites as primary assets for establishing the
stand. To identify and develop an
optimum number of trees with highest value and yield characteristics. Periodic sales and removals of surplus, low
value trees, a secondary objective, shall not be conducted if harvesting
activities have the potential of damaging, or reducing the numbers or yield of
high value individuals. At maturity all
trees in the stand shall be removed in one final harvest and sold in a manner
consistent with normal professional marketing strategies.
ASSOCIATED
BENEFITS
Older stands of bottomland
hardwoods, especially when associated with wetlands, provide unique habitat for
a wide variety of species of both game and non-game wildlife. Benefits include high crowns for nesting,
and reliable sources of high protein foods.
If seasonally flooded, these stands provide excellent waterfowl
habitat. Shaded understories are ideal
for the development of bottomland ferns, wildflowers, shrubs and herbs. Again, when associated with wetland areas,
bottomland forests serve an important role towards protecting water
quality. Stately stands of bottomland
hardwoods provide scenic values and recreational opportunities.
COST
An advantage of this investment is
having the opportunity establish a stand using naturally occurring hardwood
trees. Following the final harvest
operation, some costs will be incurred in preparing the site for the
establishment and development of the next generation of trees. Infrequent, low- cost intermediate measures
may be required to control damaging vines and other competing vegetation. Beaver control measures may be necessary
depending on local beaver populations and activity. Other costs include consulting forester and legal fees,
administrative expenses and taxes.
|
CATEGORY |
LEVEL |
GREATEST
CONCERNS |
|
Environmental |
Medium |
Stream
blockages caused by beavers or other factors leading to permanent flooding
will damage or destroy some or all of the stand. The potential for permanent flooding is particularly
significant in west Tennessee. |
|
Management
Complexity |
Low |
Harvests
conducted solely to produce short term cash will significantly reduce
long-term returns. Failure to use a
marketing specialist will reduce returns. |
|
Market
Trends |
Low |
Short
term demand, especially for export markets can fluctuate greatly, so must be
monitored closely. |
|
Human
Intervention |
Low |
Bottomland
hardwoods are often associated with wetland environments which are closely
regulated by several government agencies.
Special logging requirements must be included where wetlands are involved. Cultural practices intended to maintain,
or otherwise affect streamflow may require permits. Failure to meet all management mandates could lead to hefty
fines levied against the property owner. |
(Copyright Tennessee Timber
Consultants. All rights reserved
OBJECTIVE
To attain a high rate of growth and
income from a long-term bottomland hardwood forestry investment. To establish, develop and harvest a fully
vested stand in which every tree meets certain standards, including size and
quality, making them very desirable for trading in domestic markets. The stand should also provide periodic
income as a secondary objective through the removal of low value individuals
which do not have the potential to develop into high value trees provided that
these removals do not have a negative influence on the remaining trees or
overall returns from the stand.
Ultimately, the final stand should contain a high proportion of
extremely valuable trees.
STRATEGY
A long term management approach to
take advantage of the nationwide shortage of, and increasing domestic demand
for, high value bottomland hardwood timber products. To use naturally occurring bottomland hardwoods as primary assets
for establishing the stand. To identify
and develop an optimum number of trees with the highest value and yield
characteristics. Periodic sales and
removals of surplus, low value trees shall not be carried out if harvesting
operations have the potential of damaging the remaining high value
individuals. All remaining trees will
be removed in one final harvest when the stand reaches maturity. Sales shall comply with professional
marketing strategies.
ASSOCIATED
BENEFITS
Older stands of bottomland
hardwoods, especially when associated with wetlands, provide unique habitat for
many game and non-game species of wildlife.
Benefits include high crowns for nesting and reliable sources of high
protein foods. If seasonally flooded,
these stands provide excellent waterfowl habitat. Shaded understories are ideal for the development of ferns,
wildflowers, shrubs, and herbs. Again,
when associated with wetlands, bottomland forests are important for protecting
water quality. Stately stands of
bottomland hardwoods provide scenic values and recreational opportunities.
COST
An advantage of this investment is
having the opportunity to establish the stand using naturally occurring
hardwoods. Following the final harvest,
some costs may be associated with creating the proper conditions for the
establishment and development of the next stand of trees. Infrequent, low cost intermediate measures
may be required to control vines and other competing vegetation. Control measures may be required to mitigate
possible damage from beaver populations.
Other costs will include consulting forester and legal fees,
administrative costs and taxes.
|
CATEGORY |
LEVEL |
GREATEST
CONCERNS |
|
Environmental |
Medium |
Stream
blockages caused by beavers or other factors leading to permanent flooding
will damage or destroy some or all of the stand. The potential for permanent flooding is particularly
significant in west Tennessee. |
|
Management
Complexity |
Low |
Harvests
conducted solely to produce short term cash will significantly reduce
long-term returns. Failure to use a
marketing specialist will reduce returns. |
|
Market
Trends |
Low |
Short
term demand, can fluctuate greatly, so must be monitored closely. |
|
Human
Intervention |
Low |
Bottomland
hardwoods are often associated with wetland environments which are closely
regulated by several government agencies.
Special logging requirements must be included where wetlands are involved. Cultural practices intended to maintain,
or otherwise affect streamflow may require permits. Failure to meet all management mandates could lead to hefty
fines levied against the property owner. |
(Copyright Tennessee Timber
Consultants. All rights reserved
OBJECTIVE
To accept a low rate of return
through growth and income on a medium term forestry investment by maintaining a
low quality stand of bottomland hardwoods where species or wet site conditions
limit the development of a stand of higher value. Wood products produced in these stands will be sold in low value
markets such as for pulpwood, cross ties, or pallet lumber. Unless site conditions prevent doing so,
some of these stands might at some point be suitable for converting to planted
stands of higher value hardwoods such as oak or green ash.
STRATEGY
These stands will typically contain
a mixture of low value hardwoods such as red maple, sweetgum, hackberry,
sycamore, and cottonwood. Very little
price differential can be expected for trees with few defects or large diameter
trees, so little advantage can be gained by growing trees in these stands over
a very long period. Therefore, trees
should be harvested on a periodic, opportunity basis and sold to local wood
using industries. Growth and production
rates may, in certain circumstances, be quite high, but unit values will remain
low. Therefore, successful marketing
will depend upon growing high total unit volumes to offset those low unit
values. Tennessee has a surplus of low
value hardwoods, so historically prices have not increased at a rate much, if
any, above normal inflation.
Regardless, sales should be timed to coincide with market trends and
conducted in such manner as to comply with professional marketing strategies.
ASSOCIATED
BENEFITS
Low quality bottomland stands do not
provide as many wildlife benefits as do their International and Domestic
Bottomland Stand counterparts primarily because of the lack of oak trees. They do, however, still provide high nesting
and some soft mast for both game and non-game species of wildlife, and if
seasonally flooded, provide waterfowl benefits. Bottomland hardwoods play an important role in protecting water
quality. Depending in part on how wet
the site may be, shaded under-stories can provide opportunities for the
development of unique wetland varieties of ferns, wildflowers, shrubs, and
herbs.
COST
An advantage of this investment is
the opportunity to use naturally occurring bottomland hardwoods in establishing
the stand. The expected low rate of
return does not encourage the expenditure of funds for establishing or maintaining
the stand. Some costs may be required
to control beavers, particularly in west Tennessee. Added costs include consulting forester and legal fees,
administrative costs and taxes.
|
CATEGORY |
LEVEL |
GREATEST
CONCERNS |
|
Environmental |
Medium |
Stream
blockages caused by beavers or other factors leading to permanent flooding
will damage or destroy some or all of the stand. The potential for permanent flooding is particularly
significant in west Tennessee. |
|
Management
Complexity |
Low |
Failure
to use a marketing specialist will reduce returns. |
|
Market
Trends |
Low |
Prices
paid for these low value trees are always relatively low, but as with all
sales, market timing is still important. |
|
Human
Intervention |
Low |
Bottomland
hardwoods are often associated with wetland environments which are closely
regulated by several government agencies.
Special logging requirements must be included where wetlands are involved. Cultural practices intended to maintain,
or otherwise affect streamflow may require permits. Failure to meet all management mandates could lead to hefty
fines levied against the property owner. |
(Copyright Tennessee Timber
Consultants. All rights reserved
OBJECTIVE
To attain a very high rate of return
through growth and income from a long term forestry investment on cove sites
unique to the Appalachian and Cumberland Mountains, and portions of the
Cumberland Plateau. Though classified
as hardwood stands, in actuality these highly productive coves often contain a
mixture of valuable oaks, yellow poplar, walnut, and basswood, as well as
components of white pine and hemlock.
To establish and develop a fully vested stand in which every tree meets
certain technical standards, such as size and quality, which makes them highly
desirable for trading in overseas and domestic markets. The stand should also provide periodic
income, as a secondary objective, from the removal low value individuals.
STRATEGY
A long term investment approach to
take full advantage of the sharp nationwide decline in the supply of, and
increased domestic and overseas demand for, high value hardwoods. To use existing, naturally occurring
hardwoods on productive cove sites as primary assets for establishing the
stand. To identify and develop an
optimum number of trees with high value and yield characteristics. Periodic sales and removals of surplus, low
value trees, a secondary objective, shall not be conducted if harvesting
activities have the potential of damaging or reducing the numbers of high value
individuals. High value hardwoods will
be sold in one final harvest, and in accordance with knowledgeable marketing
strategies to access export, domestic, and specialty markets.
ASSOCIATED
BENEFITS
Many woodland wildlife species require
habitat found only in older stands of cove hardwoods. Benefits include high crowns for nesting and sources of high
protein foods needed by both game and non-game species. Shaded understories provide optimum
conditions for the long term development of shrubs, herbs, wildflowers and
ferns. Stands of stately cove hardwoods
provide scenic values and recreational opportunities.
COST
An advantage of this stand is
establishing the stand using naturally occurring hardwoods and associated
species. Following the final harvest of
all trees, some site preparation expenditures may be needed to create optimum
conditions for establishing the next generation of high value trees. Infrequent, low cost improvement measures
may be required to remove competing trees with no value or damaging vines.
|
CATEGORY |
LEVEL |
GREATEST
CONCERNS |
|
Environmental |
Low |
Wind,
ice, and snow storms can cause damage to individual trees, but rarely destroy
entire stands. |
|
Management
Complexity |
Low |
Timber
sales conducted solely to produce immediate income (quick cash) will reduce
long term returns. Failure to use a marketing specialist will reduce revenues. |
|
Market
Trends |
Low |
Short
term demand could affect prices paid for standing timber, so current market
conditions should be investigated prior to conducting timber sales. |
|
Human
Intervention |
Low |
Wildfire
risks are generally low, but are historically high in certain coves of the
Cumberland Plateau and Mountains. |
(Copyright Tennessee Timber
Consultants. All rights reserved
OBJECTIVE
To attain a high rate of growth and
income from a medium term, fully vested, white pine plantation established
specifically to produce high volumes of sawtimber. Intermediate harvests to remove surplus trees for small sawtimber
shall be conducted as needed to maintain optimum stocking and growth for the
remaining trees and provide a secondary source of income.
STRATEGY
To establish white pine stands on
non-productive open lands, or to replace low value hardwoods on poor upland
hardwood sites throughout east and portions of middle Tennessee. Stands will be planted with genetically
improved seedlings on optimum spacings to maximize production and yield. Thinnings shall be conducted periodically
either by removing rows of trees or by removing selected individuals with the
least desirable characteristics. Small
sawtimber trees shall be harvested and sold for manufacturing log homes. At some point, all remaining mature
sawtimber trees will be removed in one final harvest. All sales must be carried out with full knowledge of market
conditions, and comply with professional sale procedures.
ASSOCIATED
BENEFITS
Recently established white pine
plantations provide escape cover, nesting and food sources for quail and other
types of small game and non-game species.
Older stands provide nesting and roosting habitat as well as providing
seeds as a food source for many species of birds including grouse. Stands of tall, stately white pines provide
scenic values and recreational opportunities.
COST
Costs are primarily associated with establishing
the stand including: the purchase of genetically improved seedlings, preparing
the site for planting, the actual planting of the seedlings, and perhaps the
chemical control of competing vegetation.
additional costs include consulting forester and legal fees,
administrative costs and taxes.
|
CATEGORY |
LEVEL |
GREATEST
CONCERNS |
|
Environmental |
Medium |
Drought
conditions during the year of planting can reduce seedling survival. |
|
Management
Complexity |
High |
Failing
to plant or establish the seedlings properly can cause seedling mortality and reduced growth. Failing to control competing herbaceous or
woody vegetation can cause seedling mortality and reduce growth. Intermediate
thinnings must be carried out at the right times in the right way to maximize
income and maintain optimum growth rates. |
|
Market
Trends |
Medium |
Reliable
log cabin markets for white pine are not well developed in many areas of the
State. Limited markets could reduce
thinning opportunities. Existing and developing
markets must be carefully assessed prior to establishing white pine stands. |
|
Human
Intervention |
Medium |
Wildfires
will devastate white pine stands, so wildfire probabilities should be closely
evaluated for local communities with special emphasis in certain Cumberland Plateau
counties. |
(Copyright Tennessee Timber
Consultants. All rights reserved
OBJECTIVE
To attain a low to medium rate of
growth and income, and/or associated benefits from establishing a short to long
term hardwood plantation producing various timber products and wildlife
habitat. A number of hardwood species
may be selected for planting either in pure or mixed stands depending to a
great degree on site conditions.
Alternatives include several oak species, yellow poplar, green or white
ash, sweetgum, cypress, sycamore, and cottonwood. How the plantation will be managed to produce wood products will
depend, in part, on the species selected.
An objective could be to grow sycamore or sweetgum on a short term basis
for pulpwood, or the option could be to grow more valuable species such as oaks
for a long term to produce higher valued sawtimber and desirable wildlife
habitat. In the latter case,
intermediate harvests could provide secondary income through the application of
intermediate harvests conducted to maintain optimum stocking and production.
STRATEGY
To plant genetically improved (as
available) hardwood seedlings in open areas on optimum spacings to maximize
growth, yield and/or associated benefits.
Site conditions must be carefully evaluated to determine the best
species for planting to accomplish the desired outcome. Low value species planted solely for
pulpwood such as sweetgum, sycamore, and cottonwood will be grown for a short
period with all trees being removed in one harvest. Higher value species such as oaks and yellow poplar shall be
grown as a long term investment and receive at least two intermediate harvests
to remove those individuals with the least desirable characteristics while
leaving a desirable stocking of potentially higher value trees. All trees remaining in these long term
stands shall be removed in one final harvest.
All timber sales must be conducted with full knowledge of current market
conditions and comply with professional marketing strategies.
ASSOCIATED
BENEFITS
Hardwood plantings can add diversity
to a portfolio and increase total returns especially where otherwise idle lands
become forested. Oak plantings can
become especially important for many species of wildlife. All hardwood plantings can provide soft or
hard mast as well as a variety of habitat components throughout the development
of the stand. Under-stories of planted
stands may contain native herbs, shrubs, and wildflowers as they ultimately
develop in much the same way as do natural hardwood stands. Rows of planted and intensively maintained
hardwoods can offer a unique, manicured, almost park-like appearance.
COST
Sites must be prepared in advance of
planting to eliminate competing vegetation, and if the area was formerly used
for agricultural purposes then sub-soiling will be required. Large hardwood seedlings are needed to
assure planting success, but planting large seedlings requires special tools,
is time consuming, and is much more expensive than planting pine. Research has shown that intensive
maintenance to control competing vegetation by disking or bush hogging between
every row, and perhaps also applying herbicides is absolutely necessary for
several years following planting for a hardwood plantation to have any
opportunity to succeed. Other costs
include consulting forester and legal fees, administrative expenses, and taxes.
|
CATEGORY |
LEVEL |
GREATEST
CONCERNS |
|
Environmental |
High |
Selecting
the proper species to be planted on a given site is absolutely critical. Old field conditions often are not
suitable for hardwood plantings due to past erosion of topsoil or agricultural
practices. Drought conditions in the
year of planting can cause significant seedling mortality. Ice, wind, and
snow storms can damage planted hardwood stands. |
|
Management
Complexity |
High |
Proper
site preparation, the continued control of competing herbaceous and woody
vegetation for several years, the acquisition of high quality seedlings, and
the use of proper planting techniques are all critical to the successful development
of the stand. Intermediate thinnings
will have to be conducted at the right time and in the right way to ensure
optimum wood production. |
|
Market
Trends |
Low |
As
with all hardwoods, prices have generally increased for high quality trees
and species, but remained steady for low quality trees and species. Selecting the highest valued species for
the given site is critical. |
|
Human
Intervention |
Low |
Wildfires
can seriously damage hardwood stands, but occur infrequently. Logging damage during thinnings will cause
some damage to residual trees. |
(Copyright Tennessee Timber
Consultants. All rights reserved
OBJECTIVE
To attain a very high rate of growth
and income through the establishment and development of a short term paulownia
plantation investment planted and cultivated on an appropriate site for the
production of highly valued sawlogs that are currently in great demand for
specialty markets in the Pacific Rim.
The species is not native to the United States, but was imported from
Asia many years ago. A prolific seed
producer, paulownia is now found growing naturally across Tennessee. All trees in the plantation will be sold and
removed in a single harvest.
STRATEGY
To take full advantage of the fast
growing characteristics of the species and the current high demand and very
high prices paid for paulownia wood in export markets targeting the Pacific
Rim. To create a stand of paulownia
seedlings planted on an optimum spacing.
To properly develop and maintain each tree throughout the term of the
investment so that each individual meets certain technical standards which
makes it extremely valuable in the market place. Specific information regarding paulownia culture may be obtained
by writing:
AMERICAN
PAULOWNIA ASSOCIATION, INC.
Route
3, Box 1600
Sweetwater,
TN 37874
All
trees shall be sold and removed in a single harvest following an investigation
of market conditions, and through the services of a marketing specialist.
ASSOCIATED
BENEFITS
To include a short term, very high return
investment as a part of an overall woodlands portfolio to improve overall
returns from the property.
COST
Very high costs are associated with
establishing and maintaining the stand including the annual pruning of each
individual tree. Expenses associated
with establishing the stand include preparing the site for planting, the
purchase of high cost seedlings, and the cost of planting the seedlings. Annual maintenance includes controlling
competing vegetation by mechanical means, the application of herbicides, or
both. The annual pruning conducted on
each tree requires special knowledge and is labor intensive. Other costs include consulting forester and
legal fees, administrative expenses and taxes.
|
CATEGORY |
LEVEL |
GREATEST
CONCERNS |
|
Environmental |
Low |
Wind
or ice storms could damage these high value individuals. As of yet, there are
no serious domestic insect threats,
though paulownia canker has been noted in Tennessee. |
|
Management
Complexity |
High |
Properly
preparing the site for planting, locating and properly planting good
seedlings, timely pruning and controlling vegetative competition are required
for successful stand establishment and development. |
|
Market
Trends |
Very High |
Markets
are exclusively limited to exports to the Pacific Rim. At this time there is no domestic market
for paulownia, therefore long term demand is a question. High prices are paid for slow grown trees,
while lower prices are paid for relatively faster grown plantation trees. Demand fluctuates greatly at times. |
|
Human
Intervention |
Medium |
Numerous
cases of the theft of paulownia trees have been confirmed across the State. |
(Copyright Tennessee Timber
Consultants. All rights reserved
OBJECTIVE
To receive a very high rate of
growth and income from a medium term investment in planting and cultivating
black walnut trees, each of which shall be carefully grown to meet certain
technical standards making them highly desirable for sale in domestic or
overseas markets as valuable walnut sawtimber or veneer. After several years, the stand could also
provide annual income from the sale of nuts, depending in part on total
production and the availability of markets.
Periodic income could also be received from intermediate removals of low
value, small sawtimber size trees as the stand develops and over-crowding
occurs, provided those removals do not damage the remaining trees.
STRATEGY
To identify a productive, well
drained site with a relatively high ph level (alkaline) soil for establishing
the stand. The site must be prepared in
advance of planting to remove competing vegetation and afford the opportunity
for annual maintenance. Stands should
be planted with genetically improved walnut seedlings meeting technical
standards which influence survival and growth.
Annual maintenance will be required to control competing vegetation, and
specialized pruning methods must be employed on every tree so that each
develops into an extremely valuable individual. Markets for nuts will be located and efficient methods for nut
collection and sales determined. For
more detailed information on walnut culture contact:
AMERICAN
BLACK WALNUT ASSOCIATION, INC.
1001
North 500 West
West
Lafayette, IN 47906
Periodic
timber sales will be carried out to maintain optimum stocking while removing
the lowest value, surplus trees from the stand. All remaining trees will be removed in one final harvest.
ASSOCIATED
BENEFITS
Black walnut stands can provide
diversity to a woodlands portfolio and increase total returns by adding a very
high return, medium term investment.
Manicured walnut plantations present a park-like appearance and can
improve the aesthetic qualities of property.
COST
Very high costs are associated with
establishing the stand, and annual maintenance and pruning. Expenses include preparing the site for
planting, the purchase of high cost genetically improved seedlings meeting the
technical standards needed to insure survival and rapid growth, annual maintenance
to control competing vegetation, and specialized pruning as needed. Costs will also be associated with the
collection, processing and shipment of nuts.
Other costs include consulting forester and legal fees, administrative
expenses, and taxes.
|
CATEGORY |
LEVEL |
GREATEST
CONCERNS |
|
Environmental |
Low |
Walnut
trees are very site specific requiring well drained, fertile, alkaline
soils. High quality seedlings must be
planted in exacting weather conditions.
Insect pests, especially hickory borers are a serious pest along the
entire southern border of the State. |
|
Management
Complexity |
High |
Competition
from herbaceous weeds and woody growth must be carefully controlled in the
first several years following stand establishment. Controlled pruning
procedures must be followed to assure the development of high quality sawlogs
and veneer. Intensive maintenance requires
persistence spanning many years.
Marketing absolutely requires the assistance of a marketing specialist. |
|
Market
Trends |
Very High |
Very
high returns are possible, but short term swings in the market cycle are
common. Trees grown too fast will not
receive the premium prices paid for old, slow grown trees with a higher
percentage of heartwood. |
|
Human
Intervention |
Medium |
Timber
theft is of especial concern as individual walnut trees have potentially high
values. Wildfires can create
tremendous financial losses as walnuts are not resistant to fire damage. |
(Copyright Tennessee Timber
Consultants. All rights reserved
OBJECTIVE
To attain a very high income from a
very short term, though very high cost, forestry investment by establishing and
growing a stand of Christmas trees.
Each tree shall be cultured to meet all of the technical standards
necessary for sale in wholesale and retail markets. Species selection and marketing methods must be tailored to best
meet the desires of the owner and market.
Though an individually demanding enterprise, woodland owners may enjoy
very high returns by investing their own time and capital in a Christmas tree
stand.
STRATEGY
To establish a very short term
project with potentially very high returns by planting and developing a stand
of Christmas trees containing an optimum number of valuable, manicured
trees. Site, annual maintenance,
shearing requirements, and market prices vary among species grown for Christmas
trees. Therefore, selecting the right
species to grow is a very important early consideration. Species commonly grown in Tennessee include
white pine, virginia pine, scotch pine, fraser fir, and blue spruce. Detailed information about growing Christmas
trees can be obtained by writing or calling:
Mid-South
Christmas Tree Growers Assn.
P.O. Box 356
Sweetwater,
TN 37874
(423)
337-5054
Trees
are normally marketed wholesale to established outlets, local merchants, and
Christmas tree lots, or retailed by the owner at his/her own lot, or at the
Christmas tree farm itself through "choose and cut" merchandising. For most owners, starting on a small scale
mitigates some of the risks and allows time for market development.
ASSOCIATED
BENEFITS
Christmas trees can create diversity
and increase total returns within a woodlands portfolio by providing a very
short term, very high return investment.
Many owners enjoy the challenge, "hands on work," and learning
experience associated with successfully producing a stand of Christmas
trees. However, at certain times of the
year, managing a large stand is virtually the equivalent of having a second
job.
COST
Owners must be willing to invest a
substantial amount of their own time in the project from beginning to end. Initial expenditures include preparing the
site for planting and later maintenance, purchasing genetically improved
Christmas tree grade seedlings, and planting costs. Specialized equipment will be required such as mowers, sprayers,
automated or hand shears, and at some future date probably a mechanical tree
bailer. Other costs include liability
insurance, fertilizer, insecticide, tree paint, netting material, advertising,
and shipping. Probably the greatest
expense, however, will be for the time and labor necessary to meet the exact
timing demanded each year to maintain, spray, and shear every tree in the
entire stand.
|
CATEGORY |
LEVEL |
GREATEST
CONCERNS |
|
Environmental |
Medium |
It
is essential to match the species to be grown with the local site and
climate. Insect pests can be a
serious problem depending on the species grown. |
|
Management
Complexity |
Very High |
High
quality seedlings with desirable genetic traits must be obtained and planted
under exacting conditions. The site must
be properly prepared, and herbaceous and woody competition must be controlled
annually. Shearing must take place exactly on time, and insects
controlled as needed. It may be necessary to hire seasonal labor to help with
needed work, but dependable labor may be difficult to find. Maintenance requires an unflagging
commitment over many years. |
|
Market
Trends |
Very High |
Owners
must determine their market strategies before making the investment. Christmas tree markets in certain areas
are virtually closed as supplies already far exceed demand. Wholesale and
retail markets must be determined in advance and protected against intensive competition. Choose and cut operations are extremely susceptible
to changes in the weather as customers are reluctant to visit tree farms during
inclement conditions. |
|
Human
Intervention |
High |
Some
tree theft is probable unless owners live on the property where the trees are
grown. Wildfires will totally destroy
a stand of Christmas trees.
Agricultural chemicals applied on neighboring properties can drift
causing serious damage to the stand. |
STREAMSIDE
MANAGEMENT ZONES (SMZ's)
(Copyright Tennessee Timber
Consultants. All rights reserved
OBJECTIVE
To apply the principles of
responsible land stewardship and comply with all provisions of the Clean Water
Act by protecting water quality values including water purity, aquatic life,
streamflow, and water temperature through the retention of a corridor of trees,
or Streamside Management Zone, alongside lakes, water courses, and intermittent
streams. To provide income, as a
secondary objective, from the removal of a limited number of designated,
commercially valuable trees from within the SMZ only so long as such removals
do not impair its integrity or purpose.
STRATEGY
To designate and protect Streamside
Management Zones (SMZ's) in accordance with standards established by the
Tennessee Division of Forestry for the implementation of Tennessee's Best
Management Practices (BMP's). SMZ's
function much like a large sponge to absorb water moving overland carrying silt
particles. In other words, they serve
as a filter strip to catch sediment dislodged by logging activities before it
reaches a body of water. Tree roots
stabilize stream banks and reduce "in stream" erosion. During harvesting operations, a limited
number of designated trees may be extracted from within the Zone by skidder
cables or other means. Never, under any
circumstances shall equipment be allowed to operate within the stream course,
or within the SMZ itself.
ASSOCIATED
BENEFITS
Forested areas alongside rivers,
streams, or lakes provide unique, valuable habitat for an assortment of
wildlife including songbirds, squirrels, raccoons, and fur bearers. Many forms of aquatic life including some
fish and many varieties of plant life are dependent upon maintaining stream
quality. SMZ's in clearcut areas can
provide wildlife travel lanes when they connect to adjacent forested stands. Forests provide a colorful backdrop for
water based recreation. SMZ's help
assure that streams do not become clogged with silt, thereby continuing to
function and flow properly.
COST
The services of a professional
forester or a properly trained logger will be required to lay out SMZ's,
designate trees for removal, and design associated stream crossings. Some timber income will be sacrificed to
assure that SMZ's shall continue to provide valuable environmental benefits.
|
CATEGORY |
LEVEL |
GREATEST
CONCERNS |
|
Environmental |
Low |
These
will be generally the same as those associated with a stand of bottomland
hardwoods. |
|
Management
Complexity |
Medium |
Standards
for establishing SMZ's are detailed as one of Tennessee's Best management Practices
(BMP's). Improper activities within
an SMZ can violate certain provisions of the Clean Water Act resulting in
fines either for the property owner or logger. |
|
Market
Trends |
Low |
See
risks for bottomland hardwoods |
|
Human
Intervention |
Low |
See
bottomland hardwoods |
(Copyright Tennessee Timber
Consultants. All rights reserved
OBJECTIVE
To establish or otherwise designate
stands of trees whose overall purpose is to provide valued benefits other than
timber income. Targeted benefits could
include protecting scenic values, improving or maintaining wildlife habitat,
maintaining a site for day or overnight camping, protecting archaeological or
cultural resources, noise abatement, or maintaining privacy. By maintaining scenic and other values,
green stands could actually sustain or enhance real estate values thereby
offsetting the loss of timber revenues.
STRATEGY
To identify, retain, and manage
stands of trees solely to meet highly desirable ownership objectives other than
for timber income as defined in a comprehensive management plan for the
property. A few trees might be removed
from time to time to salvage damaged trees or maintain forest health. However, those trees will only be removed as
necessary, and only in such way as to minimize impacts detrimental to meeting
the purpose of the stand.
ASSOCIATED
BENEFITS
Stands intended to protect scenic
values also provide wildlife habitat, and vice versa. Green stands can provide all inclusive multiple benefits
simultaneously. A small stand
surrounding an old family cemetery, for example, might be extended a little to
become a scenic buffer which can also serve as a wildlife travel lane.
COST
Lost timber income is the
opportunity cost of managing for green stands.
For example, retaining a ten acre stand for scenic values which also has
the capacity to produce $100 per acre per year in timber income does have a
cost. However, the owner's desire's
might be better served by foregoing the potential $1,000 of income each year.
|
CATEGORY |
LEVEL |
GREATEST
CONCERNS |
|
Environmental |
Low |
The
stand would have to be closely monitored to assure that it does not create a
forest health risk or risk to recreational users. Old stands are especially subject to damaging influences from
insects and diseases. |
|
Management
Complexity |
Medium |
Green
stands must be clearly delineated, and have specific management objectives
within and integrated into comprehensive management plans. Foresters, vendors, and contractors must
be given specific instructions on establishing,
managing, or protecting green stands. |
|
Market
Trends |
Low |
Not
Applicable |
|
Human
Intervention |
Low |
Letting
it be known that archaeological or historic sites exist on a property could
invite trespassing by unwanted relic hunters who would destroy the sites. Unless
access is controlled, campsites may attract unwanted visitors. |
(Copyright Tennessee Timber
Consultants. All rights reserved