by Rachel McCoy
UMCA Information Specialist
 Don Poore, a Monroe County
landowner, found his first timber sale a positive experience. |
Don Poore is a busy man.
Since 1964, he has worked to produce row crops and livestock on his 350-acre diversified operation in Monroe County, near Shelbina and Paris, Mo.
Recently, Don committed to another project — his first timber sale. When the Poores began farm production more than 40 years ago, they made a decision not to clear all the wooded areas, but to allow some to remain in its natural state, which family and friends have enjoyed for hunting and recreation. Last year, the Poores began considering harvesting a portion of this timber.
“A buyer came and walked it with us,” Don said, “but after doing some research, we declined that offer. If you appreciate trees, it's hard to cut the woods out. We were waiting for the dollar amount that would justify harvesting the trees.”
The next step for the Poores was to seek assistance from consulting foresters. After walking the timber together and discussing management options, Don was surprised by the value of his walnut trees, finding it to be higher than he anticipated. For Don, the time was right to pursue sealed bids. “They talked about replanting, and that seemed like the best way to manage the forests we have,” he said. “To cut out the trees, then start more seedlings, means that down the road future generations will see the benefits. That's the kind of foresight we want to keep in mind.”
The process of selling timber highlights the need for landowners to remain aware of preserving the value of their timber, and the importance of keeping it protected from livestock or other practices that might harm valuable trees. For example, the Poores were surprised to find a deer stand built into one of their trees that didn't belong to friends or family.
Don recommends that any landowner considering a timber sale should contact someone knowledgeable, like a qualified forester. “Do a walk through and let a qualified forester help you protect and preserve your forested areas—if not for the value right now, do it for the value of the future.”
A solid enthusiasm for trees was evident in the foresters, Don said, and he enjoyed the information they shared with him about the age and condition of his trees. One tree was determined to be at least 110 years old and still growing quickly. “We tend to take our forested lands for granted, but when you get out there with an expert, you really see their uniqueness and potential,” he said.