FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN

OWNER PROPERTY

DECEMBER 18, 2011

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The Owner property is located in southcentral Pennsylvania, west of the city of York in York County. The property is approximately 23.23 acres broken down into even-aged mixed oak and hardwoods and a riparian component. The landowner’s main objective for the property is to improve and increase quality white-tailed deer and wildlife habitat while promoting long-term forest resource sustainability. Other objectives include maintaining the aesthetic value of the property, managing the timber resources for annual fuelwood production and future commercial harvest, enhancing riparian habitat for wildlife, and controlling invasive and undesirable species. Forestland stand-level characteristics are described and delineated within the plan for two management units within the Owner property. Management unit 1 is 19.99 acres consisting of a fully stocked Dry Oak-Heath Forest Type (AH22). The total estimated volume is 94.35 MBF (thousand board feet) with an estimated value of $21,704.34. The average volume per acre is 4.72 MBF with an estimated value per acre of $1,085.76. Practices include creating wildlife corridors, forest stand improvements, tree planting, invasive species control, conservation cover, and extending the existing forest trail system. Management unit 2 is 3.24 acres of riparian mixed hardwoods. This unit provides critical riparian buffer benefits to the Codorus Creek. Practices include riparian forest buffer improvements to enhance and increase the wildlife, ecological, and aesthetic value of this area. A 10-year practice schedule is included to outline activities that are recommended to meet the objectives for the property. Finally, a discussion of plan implementation assistance and timber business management is provided.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS Executive Summary ........................................................................................................................ ii

Table of Contents ........................................................................................................................... iii

Signatures and Approvals .............................................................................................................. iv

Property Information ........................................................................................................................1

Management Objectives...................................................................................................................2

Property History ...............................................................................................................................2

Property Resource Management ......................................................................................................2 Environmental and Social Considerations ...................................................................................2

Adjacent Ownership Considerations ............................................................................................2

Property Access ............................................................................................................................3

Aesthetic Quality ..........................................................................................................................3

Forest Resource Enhancement and Protection .................................................................................3 Air Resources ...............................................................................................................................3

Water and Riparian Resources .....................................................................................................3

Presence of Species of Special Concern ......................................................................................4

Forest Soil Protection ...................................................................................................................4

Wildfire Planning .........................................................................................................................5

Recreational Opportunities ...........................................................................................................5

Forest Resource Management ..........................................................................................................5

White-tailed Deer Management ...................................................................................................5

Other Wildlife Management.......................................................................................................11

Invasive and Undesirable Species Management ........................................................................12

Reforestation and Afforestation .................................................................................................13

Timber Harvesting......................................................................................................................13

Carbon and Biomass Management .............................................................................................14

Timber Improvement..................................................................................................................14

Energy Resources .......................................................................................................................14

Management Constraints ............................................................................................................15

Implementation Assistance ............................................................................................................15

Financial Assistance ...................................................................................................................15

Technical Assistance ..................................................................................................................15

Tax and Business Management .....................................................................................................16

Stand Level Analysis .....................................................................................................................16

Practice Schedule ...........................................................................................................................21

Appendix A – Resource Maps .......................................................................................................22

Appendix B – Soil Descriptions...................................................... ..............................................27 Appendix C – USDA Practice Standards and Implementation References................................... 33

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SIGNATURES AND APPROVALS This Forest Management Plan (FMP) is provided as a guide to help landowners accomplish the objectives that they have for their forest. This FMP will act as a guide for landowners in achieving the sustainable benefits of managing their forest resources for the next 10 years. With this FMP, the landowner automatically complies with the standards and benefits of the US Forest Service’s Forest Stewardship Program, the American Forest Foundation’s American Tree Farm System, and is eligible for NRCS Cost Share programs. This plan will need to be reviewed and approved by the local NRCS District Conservationist, DCNR Service Forester, Technical Service Provider, and Landowner. The Forest Stewardship Program and American Tree Farm Program are designed to promote wise use and sustained benefits of forest resources. While participation in these programs can provide benefits of forest management information networks, national recognition, financial tax savings, and increased forest product income generation through select markets, by NRCS policy, the landowner is not required to participate in these programs. If the landowner wishes to participate in either of these programs, please check the appropriate boxes and proceed to the Landowners Pledge. Forest Stewardship Program Participation

Yes: No:

Tree Farm Program Participation Yes: No: Landowner’s Pledge for Forest Stewardship/Tree Farm Program Status

Since timber harvesting has a significant impact on my forest resources I agree to complete commercial timber harvests recommended in the plan with the assistance of a professional forester. I understand that the forester is to designate trees to be cut based on a written prescription derived through a careful stand analysis of the stands involved. I understand that a DCNR Service Forester or forest consultant will periodically review the implementation of my FMP to assist me in properly following the plan for my objectives. To enable him/her to carry out this responsibility I will make available copies of plan amendments and/or timber harvesting prescriptions before carrying out a major activity. I understand that I am not obligated to obtain approval from the service forester but that he/she may advise me if prescriptions do not appear to serve the goals of my FMP or meet Forest Stewardship/Tree Farm standards. If I choose to deviate from the guidelines in the FMP, I agree to return the applicable signs designating my property as a “Stewardship Forest” or “American Tree Farm” to the DCNR service forester. ________________________________ ________________ Landowner Date

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Forest Stewardship/American Tree Farm/EQIP Program Certifications

I am satisfied with the content and recommendations contained in this FMP, and will make an honest effort to follow them for the ten year period covered by the plan. I understand that the information within this plan may be used by NRCS and DCNR for conservation planning, and is not protected by legal privacy acts for either agency. ________________________________ ________________ Landowner Date I certify that this FMP meets the requirements of the federal Forest Stewardship Program, American Tree Farm Program, and the USDA Environmental Quality Incentives (EQIP) Program and or the Quality Criteria for Forest Management Plans in Section III of the USDA NRCS Field Office Technical Guide. ________________________________ ________________ Technical Service Provider/Plan Preparer Date ________________________________ ________________ DCNR Service Forester Date

_________________ _________________ _______________________ ATFS Inspector # PA ID Number Certified Tree Farm Number

________________________________ ________________ USDA-NRCS District Conservationist Date

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PROPERTY INFORMATION

Landowner Information Name: Adam and Lauren Owner Address: 3395 West College Ave York, PA 17408 Phone: (617) 733-5510 Email: aOwner@yahoo.com Property Information State: Pennsylvania County: York Township: West Manchester Nearest City: York Zoning: Rural Residential Watershed: Chesapeake Bay Basin: Susquehanna River (Major); Codorus Creek (Minor) USGS Quad: West York Aerial (2008): 22002230PAS & 22002240PAS Eco-region: Piedmont Province; Piedmont Lowlands Section Aspect: Variable Slope: Variable Access: Good Acreage: 23.23 acres Stands: 2 Delineation: Field GPS survey; York County tax parcel data; Landowner Directions: From Interstate 83, take the US Route 30 West exit. Proceed on US Route 30

West for approximately 6.0 miles. Turn left onto Trinity Road. Follow Trinity Road for approximately 1.7 miles then turn left onto New Salem Road/West College Ave. The property is approximately 0.4 miles on the right after turning on New Salem Road/West College Ave.

Consultant Information Company: Northeast Land Management, LLC Consultant: Phillip J. Manning Title: Forest Biometrician/Owner USDA TSP#: TSP-11-7753 Address: 480 Hoffman Drive Harrisburg, PA 17111 Phone: 717-385-5162 Email: phil@nelandmgmt.com

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MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES

The landowner’s main objective for the property is to improve and increase quality white-tailed deer and wildlife habitat while promoting long-term forest resource sustainability. Other objectives include maintaining the aesthetic value of the property, managing the timber resources for annual fuelwood production and future commercial harvest, enhancing riparian habitat for wildlife, and controlling invasive and undesirable species.

PROPERTY HISTORY

The Owner property is located in southcentral Pennsylvania in West Manchester Township, York County, and west of the city of York. Ecologically, the property is within the Piedmont province and Piedmont Lowlands Section. The overall landscape is characterized by moderate agricultural production with interspersed rural residential housing. The property was acquired by the Owners in 2010 and since the purchase they have been actively working to improve wildlife habitat. No known past timber harvests have occurred on the property.

PROPERTY RESOURCE MANAGEMENT Environmental and Social Considerations

The property is within an area of low to medium conservation priority based on the 2010 Pennsylvania Statewide Forest Resource Assessment. Water resources include the Codorus Creek. This creek is part of the larger Susquehanna River Watershed and ultimately part of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. There were no physical cultural resources identified within the property. No land use changes are planned; however, historic and cultural considerations should be re-evaluated if land use changes are considered in subsequent years. Adjacent Ownership Considerations

The property is bordered to the west and south by Pennsylvania State Gamelands and by private land on the remaining sides. The adjacent property relationship poses two main concerns regarding the owner’s objectives. The first concern is unauthorized access from the public land users. The Owner property is posted and clearly marked; however, there will always be issues with unwanted access. Continued patrol of the boundaries during major hunting seasons should be maintained. Also, the adjacent public and private lands make it more difficult for complete quality white-tailed deer management. Adult buck age and buck to doe ratios are hard to control due to the hunting pressure from these lands.

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Property Access

The property has good access. The main access road starts from West College Avenue and proceeds to the house near the middle of the property. The access road is paved, which has advantages and disadvantages. The advantage is that erosion and repair is limited; however, the disadvantage is that heavy equipment for activities can damage the road. The width of the access road also limits equipment for practice implementation. The property has multiple forest trails for access to various areas of the property. These forest trails are in excellent condition. Two activities are planned for the forest trail system. Two extensions are planned from existing trails to access additional areas of the property. Furthermore, conservation cover is planned to be planted on the forest trail system to help prevent erosion and provide supplemental wildlife forage. A cool season shade tolerant mix of clovers and perennial grasses should be planted. Refer to Appendix C – USDA-NRCS Practice

Standards and Implementation References. Aesthetic Quality Aesthetic value around the house and along the access road is one component of the Owner’s objectives. The area around the house is currently over grown with undesirable species. Manual control to remove and clean up the area is recommended. Small flowering shade tolerant trees, such as flowering dogwoods and eastern redbud, could be established along with shade tolerant native herbaceous perennials (refer to “Landscaping with Native Plants in Pennsylvania” at http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/forestry/LandscapingBrochure.pdf). The same recommendation would be appropriate for along the access road. Plantings should be protected from deer using tree shelters with proper stakes or small enclosures to establish native herbaceous species.

FOREST RESOURCES ENHANCEMENT AND PROTECTION Air Resources

There are six principal pollutants that act as indicators of air quality in this country. They include ozone, particulate matter, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and lead. The Clean Air Act calls them “criteria pollutants.” The National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) define concentrations of these principal pollutants, above which, adverse effects on human health may occur. Areas of Pennsylvania where air pollution levels consistently stay below these standards are designated “attainment.” Areas where air pollution levels persistently exceed these standards are designated “nonattainment.” The Owner property is in a nonattainment area for particulate matter and is in an attainment area for all other principal pollutants. Water and Riparian Resources

Codorus Creek flows along the southwest edge and acts as the property boundary (management unit 2). Codorus Creek is classified as a warm water fishery (WWF). The banks are moderately

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well vegetated; however, a majority of the vegetation present is invasive. Invasive species include Japanese honeysuckle, bush honeysuckles, privet, spicebush, multiflora rose, ailanthus, and European buckthorn. The banks themselves are stable, only a few small areas show signs of erosion. Restoring native vegetation, particularly near the creek banks, is the main priority for the riparian area. Planned practices include forested riparian buffer (management unit 2) to control invasive species, establish native riparian plants, and to reduce streambank erosion (Figure 1). This practice will also provide an area of dense native growth, and with the unit’s aspect, will ultimately be used as a bedding area for whitetails. Species to plant include American sycamore, river birch, eastern redbud, swamp white oak, willow, red-osier dogwood, gray dogwood, winterberry, and alder. Refer to USDA-NRCS standards and planting list in Appendix C – USDA-NRCS Practice Standards and Implementation References. Tree shelters (tubes) should be used on all tree/shrubs that are planted. Tubes should have double hardwood stakes to protect the tube and seedling from flooding. After any major flooding, tubes should be check and fixed as needed.

Figure 1. Riparian management zones within a typical Pennsylvania landscape. The focus of the riparian forest buffer in management unit 2 is within zone 1.

Presence of Species of Special Concern

A search of the Pennsylvania Natural Diversity Inventory was conducted to determine whether any species of special concern (threatened or endangered) have historically or recently been found on or near the Owner Property. No record of an occurrence was found in the search. This does not necessarily mean that no rare, threatened, or endangered plants and/or animals live within or around the Owner Property, only that none have been identified to date. The project review search I.D. number is 20110921317100 and is valid for one year. A new search should be performed for specific management activities that involve large areas of habitat disturbance or activities that involve streams and/or wetlands. Additionally, a new search should be conducted prior to timber harvesting activities. A hard copy of the search can be obtained upon request from Northeast Land Management, LLC. Forest Soil Protection

Forest soil provides a critical foundation for forest ecosystem functions and as such soil conservation and best management practices should be considered. The main area of potential soil loss and degradation on the Owner property is along the creek banks and on the forest trails.

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The creek banks are in good condition. No practices are planned specifically to address streambank erosion. The forest trails are also in good condition. No signs of erosion are present; although, a few sections of the trail system have short steep slopes where future erosion may occur if not properly maintained. Planned practices include planting the forest trails for erosion protection and wildlife forage (Table 1).

Table 1. Suggested forest trail planting mix to provide optimal wildlife forage and erosion control.

Species Rate

Red fescue 8 lbs/ac Annual ryegrass 6 lbs/ac Timothy 6 lbs/ac Redtop 4 lbs/ac White clover 4 lbs/ac Red clover 4 lbs/ac Birdsfoot trefoil 3 lbs/ac

Total 35 lbs/ac

Descriptions for soil map units can be found in Appendix B – Soil Descriptions. Two hydric soils occur on the property, Glenville silt loam (GdA) and Lindside silt loam (Lw). Also, soil types CeB, GdA, and Lw are classified as state prime farmland and soil types CeC and GbC are classified as farmland of statewide importance. Wildfire Planning

The risk of wildfire is minimal. The forest trail system and access point from West College Avenue is adequate. No prescribed burns are planned for any management units on the property. Basic steps should be implemented such as firewise safety with campfires and maintenance of the forest trails so equipment can access the area if needed. Recreation Opportunities

The main focus on recreation for the Owner property is for hunting opportunities by increasing quality white-tailed deer habitat. The property also offers trails for hiking, wildlife viewing, and fishing.

FOREST RESOURCE MANAGEMENT White-tailed Deer Management Deer Biology

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Deer can be found across the state in a range of habitats. In the early 1900s, white-tailed deer were plentiful in the northern forests, but were still scarce in the urban areas and the southern

1 Rosenberry, C.S., J.T. Fleegle, and B.D. Wallingford. 2009. Management and Biology of White-tailed Deer in

Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania Game Commission Tech. Rep. 2009-2018. 148p.

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farm areas of Pennsylvania. Today, deer are abundant in some of the most developed areas of the state. Reduced hunter access in urban areas has led to well-fed deer, reproducing at high rates with low risk of being killed by hunters. In contrast, deer in more forested areas have less agricultural crops available, lower reproduction, and greater hunting access. Seasonally, deer lose weight during winter and regain weight during the spring, summer, and fall months. However, there are differences in metabolic demands between the sexes; males lose weight as they expend energy during the fall rut whereas metabolic demands on females are greatest during summer when rearing fawns. The enormous amount of energy expended during the rut often predisposes males to have higher winter mortality rates than females. As a result of the energy requirements needed for lactation, females spend more time feeding during summer months and may abandon fawns if they are not in good physical condition during the summer. Size of a buck’s antlers will be influenced by nutrition, genetic characteristics of its mother and father, and age. Bucks will produce their largest antlers after reaching physical maturity at 4 to 5 years of age. Antlers generally begin to grow in March or April. By August or early September, antler growth ceases, followed by calcification, and shedding of velvet. Natural variation and general health of the deer contribute to the timing of antler drop which occurs any time from December through March. A new set of antlers begins to grow again in March or April, triggered by increasing daylight and hormonal cues. Deer reproduction rates generally are higher in regions with an abundant food supply. Thus, deer occupying farmland regions typically have higher reproduction rates than deer in forested regions. Further, reproduction rates vary with the age of the female. Adult females have the highest reproduction rates followed by yearlings then fawns. In farmland regions, a high percentage of fawns and almost all yearling and adult females breed each year. In contrast, female fawns are less likely to reproduce in forested regions where the food supply is less abundant and yearling females may not breed if they are malnourished in fall. Generally in Pennsylvania, breeding occurs from the last week in October to the second week in December (~85% does bred), with the peak of breeding occurring the first three weeks of November (~65% does bred). Predators such as black bears and coyotes account for approximately 20% of fawn mortality in Pennsylvania. Most fawn predation occurs within the first three months of life. Hunting followed by vehicle collisions are the leading causes of adult deer mortality. Future diseases, such as chronic wasting disease (CWD), could potentially impact mortality rates of Pennsylvania’s deer herd. Deer activity tends to be focused around dawn and dusk but activity patterns will vary across seasons and can be affected by environmental conditions. For example, deer tend to be inactive when temperatures are very hot or very cold and other factors such as wind speed, cloud cover, and relative humidity may also affect deer activity patterns. In Pennsylvania, antlered deer activity does not appear to be affected by moon phase. Antlered deer move similar distances at night during new and full moons and continue to move more at night and less during the day, regardless of moon phase. On a seasonal basis, deer in northern climates tend to be most active during spring and fall and least active during winter. Deer activity is usually highest during fall because of their breeding behavior and their need to increase food consumption when preparing for winter. In winter, deer will typically become active later in the morning as temperatures

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increase. Several studies suggest deer decrease their activity in winter because food availability is limited during this season. A marked increase in deer activity occurs during the spring, as a result of the high metabolic demands associated with pregnancy and the nutritional demands associated with antler growth in males. Likewise, metabolic demands are high during summer as does produce milk for their fawns and males continue to develop antlers. This means that available high quality forage is essential for increasing abundance and developing antler size during the spring and summer months. The size and shape of a deer’s home range varies with deer density, sex, landscape conditions, and season of the year. Deer occupying better habitats can fulfill all their necessary requirements in smaller areas whereas deer residing in poorer ranges must travel further distances to find suitable food and cover. Insufficient food and cover leads to decreased adult weights and fewer points and beam length in bucks. If a property, and its surrounding landscape, can provide all necessary requirements that deer need (food, cover, and water) it is more likely to reduce dispersal and increase quality bucks. Nutritionally, males require high levels of calcium and phosphorus to develop large, better quality antlers. Males generally have larger home ranges than females and home ranges tend to be largest in fall and spring due to the breeding season and large nutritional requirements for antler growth. Adult deer will typically range within a square mile area most of the time but this varies by season. Females tend to have a smaller range than males and may live their entire lives within a short distance of where they were born. Vegetation that affords protection (cover) such as dense thickets, especially evergreens, is perfect for winter and protection from predators. In Pennsylvania, the most essential cover component is probably winter protection within extensive hardwood stands. This kind of cover is best provided in areas protected from cold winds with southern exposures. Heavy snows can cause deer to move from high elevations to lower, protected valleys particularly into areas with conifer cover. A source of natural foods in the vicinity of good winter cover is the ideal way to carry deer through this critical time of year. White-tailed Deer Habitat Improvement The Owner property has a low to moderate supply of desirable forage. Management unit 1 has abundant hard mast forage from oaks and hickories but little soft mast available. In addition, the unit lacks cover in critical areas such as areas that connect the property to adjacent properties and areas of high deer movement. Management unit 2 also has abundant oaks. This unit is steep and is used primarily as a water access point for deer and other wildlife. Increasing native vegetation and promoting soft mast forage species will encourage increased use by deer and other wildlife. Creating specifically designed wildlife corridors for movement and cover, increasing soft mast forage availability, and promoting native species should provide for increased deer numbers and more opportunities for harvesting quality bucks.

� Management Unit 1

The majority of the property is within management unit 1 (Figure 2). This unit consists of a mixed oak and hardwood forest. Dominant species include red oak, chestnut oak, white oak, black oak, red maple, hickory, tulip poplar, and black gum. Currently this unit

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provides abundant hard mast, but it lacks diversity in forage and dense cover areas for wildlife movement. The first planned activity in management unit 1 is to expand the current wildlife food plot. The existing food plot is undersized and underutilized by deer. To expand the plot, trees and shrubs should be removed on the south and southwest sides of the current food plot. Caution should be used when expanding the food plot as to not to disrupt the nearby

Figure 2. Typical mixed oak and hardwoods and understory vegetation found in management unit 1.

septic system. This expansion should be done in late winter early spring prior to leaf out. Soil test samples (at least three) should be collected (at random) within the proposed food plot in early spring after last frost2. Recommendations from the soil tests should be followed by adding nutrients that are shown to be deficient. As vegetation emerges and greens up, herbaceous weed control is planned for the area to control competing and invasive vegetation. A small patch of mile-a-minute vine was noticed in this area and is especially important to control to prevent the vine from spreading into the food plot and across the property. A recommended planting mix is listed in Table 2. This mix is a perennial cool season combination that will provide quality forage for 4-6 years with proper maintenance (Figure 3). Maintenance includes annual weed control and spot re-seeded as needed. A small enclosure to monitor use and growth is also recommended.

Table 2. Suggested perennial food plot species mix.

Species Rate

White clover 10 lbs/ac Chicory 8 lbs/ac Red clover 4 lbs/ac Alfalfa 4 lbs/ac Orchard grass 4 lbs/ac

Total 30 lbs/ac

2 Refer to The Pennsylvania State University’s soil analytics laboratory at http://www.aasl.psu.edu/HOWTO.htm for information on soil testing.

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Figure 4. Inter-planted red and white oaks in a recent forest stand improvement of mixed hardwoods.

Around the newly established food plot, soft mast trees are planned. Species include apple, crabapple, American mountain ash, flowering dogwood, wild plum, and sawtooth oak. The number of trees may vary, but approximately 30 trees are planned. Seedlings should be protected with tree shelters and staked. Figure 3. Example of a small perennial cool season food plot in a mixed hardwoods stand in central Pennsylvania.

Forest stand improvement (FSI) will be used to selectively cut and hinge undesirable trees to create areas of thick cover and forage while increasing stand quality. These planned areas are located such that the improvement will maximize deer use and increase returns on future timber assets. Species to target are red maple, black gum, and any other poor quality trees. The improvement is planned over multiple years for both ease of completion and so that each improved area is at different re-growth stages (i.e. just cut, stump sprouting). Supplemental inter-planting may be necessary in certain areas to help prevent growth of undesirable species (Figure 4). Multiple wildlife corridors are also planned for management unit 1. The corridors are located in areas specifically positioned for providing secure travel ways for wildlife coming from adjacent properties and also for wildlife movement within the Owner property. The corridors should be at least 30 feet wide. A forest stand improvement is planned the fall prior to planting in order to cut and/or hinge undesirable species in the

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corridor areas to increase growing space for planting. Species to establish include American hazelnut, winterberry, ninebark, nannyberry, arrowwood, highbush cranberry, and other native shrubs and small trees. Seedlings planting in the corridor areas will also have to be protected either by tree shelters (tubes) or by a temporary deer fence system (Figure 5).

Figure 5. A temporary poly fence used for deer exclusion.

Analysis Habitat improvements for white-tailed deer are only as good as the results they provide. A key component is to monitor the property so that the improvements can be evaluated and modified if needed. Monitoring involves three key components; field reports, harvest reports, and trail camera surveys. Field notes should be completed after every substantial property use. The report should include the following:

• Date • Time • Basic weather (cloudy, sunny, rain, temperature, etc.) • Observations • Area of property observed/hunted

These reports can be kept in a property log book. These reports can be used to document bucks, herd activity in specific habitat areas, and movement patterns. In addition to a field report log, the property should document each harvested deer. Simple data like estimated age from a jawbone, estimated weight, antler measurement, sex, and location of harvest can provide hard data to evaluate deer quality from implementing management decisions.

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Trail cameras can provide a wealth of knowledge to evaluate a property. Camera surveys can provide an estimate of local herd abundance, buck to doe ratio, recruitment, and herd health. A buck’s age and antler score can also be obtained from camera surveys, which enable the development of future harvest goals. Cameras should be deliberately set and checked during certain seasons to collect data. Cameras should not be set over long periods of time just to “take pictures.”

� Management Unit 2

The planned riparian forested buffer will provide cover and forage areas for whitetails. The riparian area on and off of the Owner property already acts as a wildlife corridor. It provides a travel way from adjacent agricultural lands and protection from the public users, however it is not used by white-tailed deer and other wildlife species to its full potential. Reducing invasive and undesirable species in this unit and establishing and promoting native species will increase its habitat value and thus be used more frequently by wildlife. Refer to the Water and Riparian Resources section and the USDA-NRCS practice standard for specifics on implementing the planned riparian forested buffer.

Other Wildlife Management All the improvements recommended to develop better deer habitat also increases habitat for all other wildlife species. A few other practices can, when installed, increase habitat further for other wildlife species. Habitat Improvements

� Management Unit 1

Cut trees from the forest stand improvement areas in the unit can be used to construct a few brush piles. Brush piles provide resting/escape cover and den sites for wildlife. A minimum of 5 den trees or snags should be marked and reserved in the unit. Den trees and snags provide cavities for nesting and roosting, perches for hunting and displaying, and an abundant insect food supply. Approximately 20 species of mammals and 35 species of birds use snags and den trees at some point during their life cycle, making them a critical element within a property. Any remaining or future den trees or snags may be used for fuelwood.

� Management Units 2

Nest boxes increase available nest sites for wildlife in areas where natural nest structures are absent or few and far between. They are also used to attract wildlife to specific areas when nesting sites are not limited. Bat boxes could be installed to enhance bat habitat in the unit. Bats provide insect control and they are also an indicator species for habitats that are free of high levels of pesticide and pollution.

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Invasive and Undesirable Species Management

Invasive and undesirable species are perhaps the most problematic element in naturally regenerating forests in Pennsylvania. Invasive species are defined as species that are non-native and whose introduction is or will cause economic and/or environmental harm due to their rapid reproduction and aggressive growth characteristics. Undesirable species are species that can be native or non-native that exhibit aggressive growth that reduces suitable growth space for other preferred species. Two important invasive species were identified on the Owner property. The first was mile-a-minute vine. This species is a herbaceous annual vine native to eastern Asia and China. Mile-a-minute grows rapidly, covering native vegetation and ultimately killing them (Figure 6). Mile-a-minute is a prolific seeder. It produces seed from late June until the first killing frost. Seeds are spread by birds and other animals, and they can be viable in soil for up to seven years. Mile-a-minute was observed along the southern forest edge of the existing food plot. Small infestations can be controlled by simply pulling out the vines prior to seed development. Any pulled vines should be bagged and removed from the site. Chemical control for larger areas includes Glyphosate3 in early spring, again before seed starts to develop. Typically, treatments will be needed for several years after initial treatment due to the longevity of the seed. The other invasive species observed on the Owner property was tree of heaven (ailanthus). Ailanthus is native to China and introduced to America in 1784. It is a deciduous tree that is commonly found in disturbed sites that spreads rapidly from seeds and root suckers (Figure 6). Ailanthus can form dense thickets reducing desirable vegetation. Ailanthus was found in both management units 1 and 2. The few stems should be treated with Glyphosate or Triclopyr using the “hack and squirt” method during the month of September. This combination greatly reduces root suckers and has the highest success rate in terms of long-term kill. Further monitoring should be completed each year at these site, and property wide, to identify and control any additional stems of ailanthus. Figure 6. Mile-a-minute vine (left) and ailanthus leaves (right).

Other invasive species were also present on the property. Species include Privet, bush honeysuckles, Japanese honeysuckle, multiflora rose, Japanese barberry, autumn-olive, and

3 All herbicide labels must be followed. Please consult a licensed pesticide applicator.

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buckthorn. Herbaceous and woody control is planned for these species in areas where their establishment is inhibiting native growth and regeneration. Reforestation and Afforestation

Site preparation techniques include understory control of invasive and undesirable species. Planting is planned for management unit 2. Select species were identified for the riparian area in the Water and Riparian Resources section. Tree planting is planned around the expanded food plot in management unit 1. Trees include apple, crabapple, American mounting ash, wild plum, and sawtooth oak. The wildlife corridors identified in management unit 1 will be planted with native shrubs and small trees. Species include ninebark, American hazelnut, winterberry, ninebark, nannyberry, arrowwood, and highbush cranberry. Finally, the main section of the property for tree planting will be conducted in the old pine plantation area. This area will be prepared by treating the bush honeysuckle and multiflora rose (and other undesirable/invasive species) and removing any hardwood species present in the area. A few select dead or dying overstory white pines may be removed to improve the area and aid in seedling success. Preferred species include white spruce, Norway spruce, white pine, and pitch pine. All hardwood trees shall be protected with five foot tree shelters secured with double solid hardwood stakes for protection against high water in the riparian area (management unit 2) and at least a single wood stake in all other areas. Optional poly mesh deer fencing (Figure 5) could be temporarily erected around areas for seedling protection. Annual maintenance, or after a flood event, should be performed to ensure seedling survival. Maintenance includes weed control, fixing damaged shelters, and replanting where and when necessary. Timber Harvesting

Timber harvesting is a tool to manage, improve, and mimic natural disturbance of forest resources in woodlands. Harvesting provides a means to influence species composition and growth of a particular stand in such a way that will meet the property’s objectives in a sustainable and financially appropriate way. The complexity of timber harvesting requires the consultation of a professional forester. Advantages of hiring a forester to conduct a timber sale include the development of a harvesting plan, erosion and sediment management guidelines, and safeguards to protect the residual stand. Research has also shown that increased present and future financial gains are achieved when a professional forester is involved in the sale and administration of a timber sale. Without a forester, logging companies could remove only high-value trees (high grading4), not properly prepare for the future stand, and pay a reduced value for the trees. Timber harvesting is not planned for either management unit at the time of this plan. However, timber harvesting may be conducted in the future depending on financial needs and value for the forest. All future harvests should be properly evaluated and Pennsylvania Best Management Practices apply. Fuelwood will be cut annually from a percentage of dead and dying trees.

4 Type of timber harvesting where only large, dominate trees of commercially valuable species are removed. This type of harvest has little to no regard for the quality and/or distribution of residual trees and typically does not plan for adequate regeneration for future stand development.

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Fuelwood can also be harvested from undesirable overstory and mid-story species in the areas outlined for forest stand improvement. The fuelwood harvested will be mainly for personal consumption. Carbon and Biomass Management

Carbon sequestration is the process by which carbon laden emissions are captured and stored by a medium. Trees, and other plants, act as this medium and are designed as carbon sinks. The planned activities for the Owner property will maintain and increase carbon storage. No commercial harvests are planned while tree planting and forest stand improvements will increase the quality and quantity of plants available for carbon storage. Biomass use is limited to fuelwood for personal use.

Timber Improvement Forest stand improvement is planned for two sections of the property and prior to establishing the wildlife corridors. The purpose of the improvement is to increase the overall stand quality by promoting mast producing and preferred wildlife species while increasing wildlife forage. Tree selected to be removed (Figure 7) should be “hinged-cut” (Figure 7). This technique accomplishes two objectives. It removes the tree and the felled portion allows browse and cover for deer and other wildlife. Another option would be to cut the selected trees completely off. With this technique, certain species will stump sprout back after being cut providing browse for deer. A combination of techniques could also be implemented. Figure 7. Selecting cull trees in a forest stand improvement (left) and an example of a hinge technique (right).

Energy Resources

Emphasis on cleaner and renewable energy sources has become more important each year in America and particularly in Pennsylvania. The Owner property has no known energy resources available.

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Management Constraints

Broad management constraints include labor and financial elements. As such, the planned practices have been scheduled over a ten year period in small, manageable amounts. Mr. Owner plans to do most of the labor portion himself and is looking to USDA-NRCS programs for assistance with the financial aspect. An additional constraint may be access. The access road from West College Avenue is narrow and paved so certain types of equipment will not be able to access the property. This could limit options for invasive and undesirable species control.

IMPLEMENTATION ASSISTANCE Financial Assistance

Financial assistance is available from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS). This agency offers cost-share payments for various forest management and wildlife practice implementation. Currently, two programs fit the objectives of this property the best. The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) helps landowners of agricultural and forestlands to improve natural resources. The EQIP program has eligibility requirements such as being an agricultural producer (or forestland owner) and registration with the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) but it offers a wide selection of practices eligible for cost-share. Applications are accepted on a continuous basis with a typical ranking/funding period during the winter of a given year. The Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program (WHIP) offers assistance for installing and maintaining wildlife practices on both agricultural and forestlands. Pennsylvania priorities for this program include the establishment of native grasses, stream enhancements, and early successional habitat development. Most landowners are eligible for this program. Applications are accepted on a continuous basis with a typical ranking/funding period during the winter of a given year. Northeast Land Management, LLC has the ability to offer assistance in initial application preparation and help with establishing the necessary paperwork required with FSA and NRCS. Also, the practices outlined throughout this plan and in the practice schedule are defined in terms of NRCS practice standards to aid in this process. More information can be found by contacting the York County NRCS Field Office at http://www.pa.nrcs.usda.gov/. Technical Assistance

Many forest management activities require the assistance of a professional. Northeast Land Management, LLC provides full-service forest management plan implementation assistance. We are insured and licensed with the state of Pennsylvania to do business. We also hold licenses to apply herbicides in forested and industrial applications.

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Another important technical reference is the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Bureau of Forestry (PA DCNR) service forester. The York County service forester is listed below with contact information. Service foresters work with private landowners to provide technical advice in managing their forest resources. They will be an integral part in maintaining your forestland.

Matthew Kern, York County Service Forester 2600 Smith Station Road

Hanover, PA 17331 717-637-1770

mkern@pa.gov

TAX AND BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

Forestland is an investment and it should be treated as such. The following section provides a brief overview of subjects that should be considered in financial planning. A helpful reference for financial forest planning can be found that http://www.timbertax.org/. A tax professional should be consulted to ensure proper records are kept and financial documents are submitted. The Owner property is zoned rural residential and its current land use is forest/agriculture with residential dwelling. The property is not registered in the Pennsylvania’s Clean and Green program. Timber harvesting and financial assistance programs produce federal, state, and local income tax liabilities. Records should be kept on all activities that involve an income or expense for the property. This will aid in preparing financial statements for the property at the end of each year. Estate planning should also be considered to lessen tax liability in future property transfers. Some activities of timber management are also considered deductible. These deductions are critical in reducing large income tax liabilities from a timber harvest. Good records should be kept of each and every activity on the property. Your personal accountant will be able to better explain which timber management activities are eligible for a deduction.

STAND LEVEL ANALYSIS Stand 1

Existing Conditions – Management Unit: 1 Land Use: Forest Acres: 19.99 Slope: 10-20%

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Aspect: Varies Forest Type: Dry Oak-Heath Forest (AH22) Site Class: Site class 2 Stocking Level: Fully stocked Size Class: Medium sawtimber (14-18” diameter) Growth: Approximately 73.7 bd ft/ac/yr based on a good site5 Timber Quality: Good Age: 88 yrs. (approx.) Invasive Species: Ailanthus (pine area), privet, bush honeysuckles, Japanese honeysuckle,

multiflora rose, Japanese barberry, mile-a-minute (food plot), autumn-olive

Regeneration: Sparse (oak species, red maple) Deer Impact: High (browse observed) Species: Chestnut oak, white oak, red oak, red maple, black gum, hickory, black cherry, white pine, tulip poplar, white ash, and sweet cherry. Inventory: Random variable radius prism plots were sampled using a 10 basal area factor (BAF) prism to assess stocking and stand density. Timber value6 estimates are based on the most recent timber market report at the date of this plan. Recommendations: Conservation cover establishment in the food plot (expanded) area and on

all forest trails. Establish three wildlife corridors for deer movement and forage. Also, tree planting conifer species in the declining pine area. Finally, forest stand improvement and invasive and undesirable species control in specific areas within the property. Refer to specific details in the respective plan sections and the Practice Schedule.

Desired Future Conditions – Forest Type: Dry Oak-Heath Forest (AH22) Site Class: Site class 2 Stocking Level: Fully stocked (2) Size Class: Medium sawtimber (14-18” diameter)

5 Based on research by Manning et al. An alternative model for describing sawtimber growth and yield in

Pennsylvania forests. North. J. Appl. For. In Review. 6 Available at http://extension.psu.edu/timber-market-report

Table 3. Overstory summary for management unit 1.

Measure Per Acre Per Unit

Basal area (ft2) 90.0 1,799.1 Trees 150.3 3,004.5 Quadratic mean diameter (in) — 10.5 Volume Tons (pulpwood) 7.0 139.93 MBF* (sawtimber) 4.72 94.35 Stumpage Value $1,085.76 $21,704.34

*Thousand board feet

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Timber Quality: Good Species: Species composition will remain the same Illustration of desired stand condition and structure:

Stand 2

Existing Conditions – Management Unit: 2 Land Use: Riparian/Wildlife Acres: 3.24 Slope: 20-40% Aspect: SW Forest Type: Mixed hardwood (AD22) Site Class: Site class 2 Stocking Level: Fully stocked (2) Size Class: Medium sawtimber (14-18” diameter) Growth: Approximately 73.7 bd ft/ac/yr based on a good site Timber Quality: Average Age: 84 yrs. (approx.) Invasive Species: Japanese honeysuckle, bush honeysuckles, privet, multiflora rose,

ailanthus, buckthorn, and autumn-olive

Wild Evenly spaced Evenly spaced w/openings Variable density

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Regeneration: Sparse Deer Impact: High Species: Chestnut oak, white ash, red oak, red maple, black gum, hickory,

hackberry, and black oak Inventory: Estimated inventory of wildlife tress included 3 snag trees per acre, 2

cavity trees per acre, and 2 live trees per acre with a cavity. Also, course woody debris was comprised of 9 logs/branches per acre less than 12” in diameter and 1 log greater than 12” in diameter. No brush piles were observed. The unit has an abundance of hard mast from oak and hickory species for wildlife food sources. Soft mast is limited to a black gum and some flowering dogwoods. Additionally, no high or low evergreen cover is present. Speckled alder was planted with limited success. No formal inventory was conducted; however, the overstory was estimated to 80 ft2/ac of basal area and 105 trees/ac.

Recommendations: The slope and location of this unit limits its use for timber production.

Riparian and wildlife objectives and management should be implemented in this unit. Riparian forested buffer establishment and improvement should be implemented. Refer to specific details in the respective plan sections and the Practice Schedule.

Desired Future Conditions – Forest Type: Mixed hardwood (AR22) Site Class: Site class 2 Stocking Level: Fully stocked (2) Size Class: Medium sawtimber (14-18” diameter) Timber Quality: Average Species: Species composition will remain the same with the addition of more

riparian species. Illustration of desired stand condition and structure: Wild Evenly spaced Evenly spaced w/openings Variable density

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PRACTICE SCHEDULE

The practice schedule outlines a timeline of implementation of forest management practices that, when applied, should serve to meet and exceed the landowner’s objectives for the property. Practices are listed based on USDA-NRCS practice standards and codes with brief specifics for implementation. A recommended year and amount of each is also included. Recommended 10-year plan of practices

Year Season Priority Practice Code Unit Amount

2012 Spring High Conservation cover-establish perennial

forage and soft mast trees 327 1 1.0 ac.

Spring High Conservation cover-establish perennial

forage on forest trails 327 1 0.75 ac.

Spring High Herbaceous weed control-mile-a-

minute at food plot/food plot prep 315 1 1.0 ac.

Fall High Woody invasive species control-tree of

heaven (ailanthus) 314 1 1.25 ac.

2013 Spring Medium Forest trails-create two new forest trails 655 1 1250 ft.

Summer High Woody invasive species control-honeysuckle

314 1 1.25 ac.

2014 Spring High Tree planting-interplant conifer species 612 1 1.25 ac.

2015 Spring Medium Herbaceous weed control-site prep

riparian area 315 2 2.75 ac.

Spring Medium Evaluate conservation cover/trees in food plot area

NA 1 1.0 ac.

2016 Spring Medium Riparian forested buffer-establish

desirable riparian species 391 2 2.75 ac.

Fall High Forest stand improvement-prep wildlife

corridor area 666 1 1.2 ac.

2017 Spring High Tree planting-wildlife tree and shrub

establishment for wildlife corridor 612/647 1 1.2 ac.

2018 Spring High Forest stand improvement-remove

undesirable species and promote

oaks/hickory in small openings

666 1 3.5 ac.

2019 Spring High Herbaceous weed control-multiflora

rose, etc. 315 1 1.25 ac.

Fall High Forest stand improvement-remove

undesirable species and promote

oaks/hickory in small openings 666 1 3.5 ac.

2020 Spring High Herbaceous weed control-multiflora

rose, etc. 315 1 1.25 ac.

2021 Spring High Herbaceous weed control-multiflora

rose, etc. 315 1 1.25 ac.

2022 Spring High Plan update NA All --

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APPENDIX A – RESOURCE MAPS

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APPENDIX B – SOIL DESCRIPTIONS

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APPENDIX C – USDA-NRCS PRACTICE STANDARDS AND

IMPLEMENTATION RESOURCES