Selective thinning good for the health or the forest

I have heard several individuals questioning why the City is cutting trees in the Community Forest. Simply put, it is for the health of the forest. We must ensure that our kids and grandkids have the same beautiful timberland that we are enjoying.

I would venture to say that few, if any, City in Texas has as many acres of public open space per capita as we have here in Palestine. Those of you that walked the trails around the Water Works Lake know how beautiful it is. We all would hate to lose the assets we have in the Community Forest, so we have to protect it.

Timber thinning removes a portion of the overall stand of pine trees. Thinning can greatly improve the health and vigor of trees. When pine trees grow too closely together or reach their fully mature age, the risk of death from disease and insects increases. Selective tree removal reduces the risks and promotes tree growth. Tree removal also allows the ground to receive additional sunlight which will stimulate growth of grass, shrubs and other plants that may be beneficial to wildlife.

One of the problems in the Community Forest is that many of the largest pine trees are not native to Texas. Back in the 1930's (I may be off a decade) slash pine was planted around the lakes. Slash is a fast growth pine that was thought to be a great timber production tree. The problem is that it was later found to be susceptible to disease call Fusiform Rust. The disease is most damaging to slash and loblolly pines. It occurs to a lesser degree on longleaf and is not a problem on shortleaf pines. Removing the slash pine is an important timber management tool.

The one problem that is always associated with selective thinning is that it is not pretty. We all hate to see trees removed from any public area. I have found myself thinking… It will never look the same. But you know what, timber land heals its self quickly. In a few years you will see few signs of the thinning.

Let me encourage you to go out and explore our county's Public Open Spaces. Along with the Community Forest, Wolf Creek Lake is gorgeous and it has a water fall that will surprise you. We also have two Wildlife Management Areas; Big Lake Bottom WMA on the western side of the county and Gus Engeling WMA in the north. We have all seen the signs for Gus Engeling, but just never got around to going in. Make the time, you will be surprised! And, please, do not forget Davey Dogwood Park!

The natural resources on Anderson County are some of our strongest economic development tools. Quality of Life is always a major factor for families and business to relocate. We have a wonderful secret that is getting out!

Yes, the selective thinning is not pretty, but it is necessary. It is a lot like giving a baby his shots. Oh, you hate to do it! It hurts you more than it does the baby! But, you know it must be done to protect the baby and to ensure that he grows up to be healthy and strong. Get out and take advantage of our Open Spaces!