Greenfield Forestry Committee Minutes

Minutes- September 21 2017

Forestry Committee/George Proctor Town Forest Walk-Through

Present: Gary Russell, president, Greenfield Sportsman’s Club; Carol Irvin, Greenfield Con-Com; Hunter Carbee, chair, forestry committee and Karla Allen, town forester

Absent: Betsy Hardwick, Greenfield Sportsman’s Club; Janet Renaud, Greenfield Con-Com

The group met at the Sportsman’s Club at 3:30 pm. Access to the property was discussed. It was agreed it will be challenging for log trucks and tractor trailers to make the corner onto Dodge Road. Karla will speak to the neighbors about widening the corner. Carol found remnants of a “feather” at the Savage site. Gary educated the group how this was used with a wedge to split granite. The group then viewed the Savage cellar hole and Gary pointed out some granite slabs that had been split using that method.

The group then moved into the forest. Discussion and consensus about location for a log yard, landing area for the timber sale. This site will be stumped which will help in the future for parking and as a permanent wildlife opening.

Both Karla and Hunter noted the large, low-quality, multi-stemmed white pines. Even though there is little timber value, it was agreed these should be removed to allow the current hardwood poletimber to develop as the future forest. Discussion on implementing a riparian buffer along Dutton Brook (also known as Mountain Brook from Francestown) to provide protection from erosion while maintaining crown closure for shade.  

The group moved further towards the north end of the property. This area is primarily hemlock with scattered red oak, red maple, beech and other hardwoods. Hunter noted that this is unique to the area as the surrounding properties have been heavily cut over the years. Hemlock, as a climax forest is highly valuable as wildlife habitat, particularly as cover for deer during the winter months. The current maturing forest has little regeneration and no evidence of winter use by deer. However, there are active deer trails being used. As hemlock is shallow rooted, Hunter recommended the use of group selection to promote regeneration of hemlock and protect the stand against windthrow. The group also noted this could be a good area to set up some tent platforms for the Boy Scouts and others to use. There is a nice view of the Fleck swamp to the north.

The group then returned along the western boundary of the property. Gary showed everyone where he would like to clear 1 to 2 acres. This would be maintained as a permanent wildlife opening, an activity area for youth (archery, camping, etc.) and there is the potential to build another pond. From there the group walked back to the vehicles.

Respectfully submitted,

Hunter Carbee

Chair, Forestry Committee

NH Licensed Forester #261