Woodlot management efforts include implementation of forest stewardship plans, black ash surveys, emerald ash borer monitoring and control as well as early detection monitoring for other forest pests. As part of the forest stewardship plans, Environmental staff conduct forest stand improvements (FSI) by removing trees, invasive species or other forest plants. Benefits of FSI often include higher growth rates in trees, reduced stress of forest plants, augmented food production (including maple syrup), increased habitat for wildlife and improved lighting to ground level plants. Some cut trees will remain where they fall to create wildlife cover or they may be piled to make homes for rabbits and other small game species.
