Editor's note: This issue of the Missouri Forestry Newsletter could be called the chip mill issue. More than 80 MOSAF members and guests attended the fall meeting in Van Buren on this topic. Several of the talks, as well as other articles on the topic, are reprinted here for member's information and reference.
Chip mills have the attention of the public and legislature, giving our profession a unique opportunity to participate in this public policy debate. Our members owe it to themselves and to the profession to become well versed on this issue. A Missouri SAF position statement will be introduced at the Winter Meeting at the Missouri Natural Resources Conference. Members should come to the meeting fully informed to take part in this important discussion.
Hardwood Chipping in Missouri
Shelby Jones
For at least the past thirty years professional foresters and forest land owners in Missouri have expressed the desire for markets for small diameter hardwoods. The kind of markets which would utilized a wide variety of species and stems which are destined for removal in thinnings and timber stand improvement cuts. "If only these markets existed," they lamented, "more timber management would be practiced and financial returns would be improved." In some areas, the introduction of scragg mills in the early-Eighties provided markets for short bolts from 4-6 foot long and as small as 5 inches in diameter. These mills produced cants which were then resawn into boards for pallet construction. However, the mills wanted mainly oak so many of the minor species were ignored by cutters. Thinnings and TSI did not increase significantly, but the harvest of pole-size timber did. Thin kerf, narrow band saws continued the trend toward use of smaller diameter trees for pallet boards in the late-Eighties and continues today. The species processed in the greatest amount is still oak, accounting for more than 80% of the total volume of wood harvested in Missouri today. In fact, the percentage of oak in our total harvest has increased steadily since 1987.
The first interest in establishing facilities within the state to manufacture hardwood chips for paper production occurred in 1990. Missouri had a new forest survey and forest resource analysts from large paper companies, mainly in the South, were looking northward for potential supplies of hardwood chips. With its access to the Mississippi River for transportation and significantly more annual growth than harvest, Missouri became a focus for a steady stream of wood procurement interests, both international and domestic. However, an almost total of lack experience in harvesting "pulpwood" by our logging community and the absence of mechanized logging equipment created doubt in the minds of decision makers that sufficient volumes of pulpwood could be delivered to a market. Availability of timber, mainly from privately owned lands, was analyzed by each company and the resource was deemed capable of providing both the volume required by existing wood industries and that needed to support a chip manufacturing facility. Even though there was interest from major companies in locating chipping facilities in Missouri and the timber resources to sustain them, it was 1996 before there was a commitment to construct a chip mill in southeast Missouri by Willamette Industries. That plant is now operational, providing hardwood chips to its parent pulp and paper mill in Hawesville, KY.
Following closely on the heels of Willamette Industries, Canal Wood Corporation announced construction of a chipping facility at the Southeast Missouri Regional Port near Scott City, MO. It's procurement area would cover portions of five states and would also overlap part of the procurement area of the Willamette plant. A large portion of the hardwood chips produced by Canal will be exported for paper production. Combined, the two plants will produce 500,000-600,000 tons of chips annually when fully operational. Rather quickly, Missouri had gone from a situation of having limited markets for small diameter hardwood timber to having competition for it.
Immediately after the announcement of a second chip manufacturing plant, environmental groups, mainly headquartered in other states, began to question the "sustainability" of production for the two plants and their impact on the traditional sawlog oriented wood industry. There were also unsubstantiated rumors about the location of several other chip mills across southern Missouri. Media coverage has been constant since that time and the two companies have come under scrutiny from several regulatory agencies as a result. The major message generally coming from the media is that the volume of wood required to feed these two plants will cause the clearcutting of all of southern Missouri in the span of only a few years. Of course, it follows that the aesthetic qualities of the Ozarks will be devastated along with economic impacts of tourism and the current wood processing industry. Much of the media campaign has not taken the time to really compare the amount of additional wood needed with the ability of our forests to produce wood fiber. Had they done so, they might be printing much different stories today. That kind of information, however, does not sell newspapers. But it tells only one side of a much broader story and leads many people to draw false conclusions about the situation.
There is no doubt that pulpwood markets can be utilized to generate income when the landowners' objective is to clear land of timber and convert it to other uses. Exploitation of the forest resource happens daily, by agriculture, by urbanization, and yes, even by the wood processing industry. But the very positive aspects of hardwood pulpwood markets for Missouri forest landowners are being largely ignored. Timber management options are increased with the addition of these markets. Opportunities for shorter term financial returns are increased. Competition for wood fiber generally means that landowners will receive higher prices for their wood. And lastly, management for high quality sawlogs and veneer logs is not only possible but more desirable than ever because it will produce lots of pulpwood and other intermediate products during the rotation. The expense of timber stand improvement will no longer be necessary because commercial thinning will be economically possible. Why wouldn't forest landowners be excited about the increased opportunities of these new markets? It seems to me that it is a win-win situation for both landowners and the level of forest management in the state.
Of course, Missouri SAF members are keenly aware of all of the above. I'm "preaching to the choir." But here is a challenge for you. How many forest owners do you know personally that are not as convinced as you that they should be managing their property utilizing both a stewardship ethic and the best scientific management practices available? The number of professional foresters is relatively small when it comes to reaching nearly 300,000 landowners. In fact, I don't think it can be done without your help! We all learn a lot from friends, neighbors, and associates. Think how many people could learn from you if you took the initiative to talk with them on the subject.
Chip mills and the markets they offer can be a positive influence on forestry in Missouri if we have informed timber owners who know how to fit them into their management objectives. The next time you see a negative article or news clip about chip mills, ask yourself about the "other side of the story." There is always two you know!
Chip Mills & Mechanized Harvesting: What Do They Mean to a Forest District's Operation?
Tom Draper
As with any type of forest management activity, the question foresters most often ask themselves is: Does this planned land management activity present an opportunity to improve the forest resource or does it have the potential to degrade it? This is particularly true of an agency whose mission in part is to protect and manage the fish, forest and wildlife resources of the state, and whose conservation vision is to have healthy, sustainable plant and animal communities throughout the state for future generations to use and enjoy. We do so because our goal is that these future generations will find our state's forest resources in appreciably better condition tomorrow than they are today.
It has been our experience on the Clearwater District that mechanized harvesting for pulpwood has the potential to be both good and bad for the long term health and sustainability of the forest resource. What ultimately happens to this resource is a result of the decision making process of both the landowner and/or land manager and that segment of forest industry who applies harvesting activities to the land. Harvesting operations have always been a method by which landowners and land managers have met individual resource management goals. These goals have been geared toward improving or providing a diversity of wildlife habitat, realizing economic returns or manipulation of forest structure for a variety of reasons. Traditionally, in Missouri, harvesting has yielded forest products of railroad ties, grade lumber, barrel staves, pallet stock and even charcoal. Now we must think in terms of a new resource commodity pulpwood. Why? Because this product has been in demand globally and is now in demand here in Missouri.
Specifically, the demand for this new commodity has demonstrated to us as foresters the need to sharpen our skills and contemplate adjusting our management activities in the following ways.
We now need to consider estimating pulpwood volumes in addition to traditional saw timber volumes.
We now need to think in terms of tons and board feet.
We need to be able to visualize on the ground in forest stands saw timber volumes in board feet and pulpwood volumes in tons.
Traditionally, we have usually marked trees on one side of the tree. Now, with mechanized equipment, forest industry has pointed out the need to mark on both sides of the tree. Mechanized equipment is not as mobile as an individual tree feller walking on the ground. Painting both sides of the tree allows the operator in a Hydro-Ax to see a marked tree readily. Easily visible trees helps to minimize damage to the residual resource by eliminating unnecessary maneuvering of the mechanized feller.
The cost to District operations is in time. It consumes a great deal of time to mark both sides of the tree. Our experience has shown that marking both pulpwood and saw timber trees on both sides of the tree triples the time it takes to mark a timber sale. In the private land owner arena this means less acres covered and fewer landowners assisted.
Marking crews need to take into account the size of mechanized equipment and tree length harvesting operations. Foresters need to be smart on how trees are marked so equipment access is facilitated. You need to consider not only the harvesting equipment but also the log hauling equipment.
Haul roads and skidding trail layouts need to carefully considered. This has always been the case but is doubly important with the new type of harvesting and hauling equipment. You need to minimize residual tree damage but allow maneuverability for larger equipment.
Debris dispersal needs to be considered. Debris (limbs) accumulates around the processor and is moved back into the woods by the grapple skidder. Conventional harvesting results in debris staying in the area where trees are felled. Now piles of debris are moved back into the forest but are concentrated to individual locations within a forest stand. Does this provide less soil protection and can there be adverse impacts to nutrient recycling?
Depending upon terrain and access pulpwood sales may not be an option.
TSI versus pulpwood sales. Are there opportunities now to realize income from thinning those stands that are primarily composed of large poles with scattered small sawtimber trees? Traditionally, these type of forest stands have presented marginal opportunities for harvesting activities. Most have been thinned using TSI activities and have cost landowners somewhere between $30.00 - $50.00 per acre. Now there may be income potential. In fact a private landowner assisted by District personnel realized $1300 from pulpwood sales in addition to income from sawtimber. Taking pulpwood made it feasible to harvest the scattered sawtimber trees that needed to come out to yield proper stocking levels. Also, there was no need to do post timber sale cultural work.
Slashing operations in conventional clear-cuts may be less time consuming because more material can be utilized as pulpwood. In other words, more material is harvested mechanically leaving fewer residual stems.
Private Landowner Assistance
Foresters assisting private landowners must be able to discuss intelligently the comparative values of pulpwood and sawtimber. This is another case where foresters need to be able to discuss relative value in both tons and board feet.
As you can see, foresters now need to contemplate several new concepts when it comes to utilizing the potential opportunities of mechanized harvesting of pulpwood. What we can never forget as foresters, serving the public, is the need to insure the forest resource will be in optimum condition for future generations. This is especially true for public agency forester's and I would say it is also true for consultant and industrial foresters as well.
We always need to consider current stand structure, management objectives and the potential risks, hazards, and impacts to the forest resource when using any mechanized equipment. We all need to learn when mechanized pulpwood harvesting is an opportunity to enhance the forest resource and when it is not.
There has been much controversy over the past six months concerning the presence of chip mills in southeast Missouri. Regional groups have expressed concern when they have responded to the Forest Service decision process. Local groups and individuals have expressed concern; an example is the recent meeting in Greenville sponsored by the Dogwood Alliance. All of us in this room know these things because we have heard concerns from individuals and groups and have seen news articles recently concerned with this issue.
The basic question that I want to address this morning is "Will the presence of chip mills so near the Poplar Bluff Ranger District affect the Forest Service management strategy for this area?
The answer to this question is simply no. The management of the Mark Twain National Forest, of which the Poplar Bluff District is a part, is currently being guided by the Mark Twain National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan of 1986. This plan lays down basic management standards and guidelines that directs how we manage vegetation to enhance wildlife and other resources.
Will the presence of chip mills ultimately shorten the rotation of the timber resource?
There are individuals and groups who feel that to feed the mills will mean timber rotations will have to be shortened. The answer is no. Management on the Poplar Bluff District is guided by the Mark Twain plan. Each management prescription area has minimum and maximum limits on woodland characteristics, such as the acres in 0 to 9 age class, acres in old growth, acres in timber types over 50 years of age and acres in open and semi-open habitats. These characteristics combine to establish median rotation ages of 90 to 115 years except in old growth stands.
Isn't it true that timber products off National Forest lands will go to the chip mills in the area?
Yes, because of the competitive nature of the Forest Service timber sale contract process, successful bidders on this timber will be free to market the product wherever economics dictate. Products will go to local sawmills, charcoal plants, and chip mills. Most loggers are going to sell the raw timber product where they have a market and can get the most money for that product.
Isn't it true that snags and cull trees on National Forest lands will be removed in timber sales?
Yes, some snags and cull trees will be removed but the Mark Twain plan contains a standard for each management prescription area that establishes minimum numbers of snags and den trees per acre to be left.
A final comment that I would like to make pertains to an opportunity that I see the presence of a chip mill will provide. Markets currently exist for hardwood sawtimber, pine sawtimber and pine poles. There is no market to speak of for hardwood poles less than nine inches dbh. The Poplar Bluff District currently carries out silviculturally prescribed thinnings in this size class, but these operations are noncommercial. The opportunity exists now to market this "small roundwood" as wood chips.
WHEREAS, the forest resources of Missouri are vital to Missouri's citizens because they provide timber, wood products, fish and wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation and tourism opportunities, protection of soil and water resources, and support the general health and quality of life; and
WHEREAS, economic enterprises and other activities utilizing forest resources warrant the continuing recognition and support of the state; and
WHEREAS, it is in the public interest of the State of Missouri to encourage and apply Best Management Practices for responsible forest resource management that serves both (1) the public's need for timber and other forest products, and (2) the public's need for soil and water resource protection, fish and wildlife habitat preservation, recreational and tourism opportunities, and a healthy environment for present and future generations; and
WHEREAS, a "chip mill" is a facility that uses forest resources for the primary purpose of producing wood chips for markets inside and outside the United States; and
WHEREAS, concerns with the operation of chip mills in other states has generated questions about a variety of adverse environmental impacts caused by indiscriminate forest resource harvesting practices, including soil erosion, increased sediment in streams, and alteration of the natural forested landscape; and
WHEREAS, the introduction of chip mills into Missouri and neighboring states has led to concerns from citizens throughout Missouri relating to the proper use of our forest resources and the conservation and management of Missouri's natural resources;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, MEL CARNAHAN, Governor of the State of Missouri, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution of the State of Missouri, do hereby declare that:
1. All executive departments and agencies of the State of Missouri shall work cooperatively so that the governmental administration of forest resources combines professional management services, regulatory measures, and economic incentives in a complementary fashion to meet the purposes of this executive order.
2. All executive departments and agencies of the State of Missouri shall apply forestry Best Management Practices, as included in the 1997 Missouri Watershed Protection Practice Guidelines (published by the Missouri Department of Conservation), in the management of all properties owned, controlled, or managed by these agencies to meet the purposes of this executive order.
3. The State of Missouri recognizes the benefits of the forest industry's Sustainable Forestry Initiative and encourages all forestry corporations operating in the state to participate in these standards.
4. An Advisory Committee on Chip Mills is hereby established. The Advisory Committee on Chip Mills shall initiate a study to identify the impact of chip mills and the associated forest harvesting practices. The study initiated pursuant to this executive order shall include, but not be limited to an analysis of:
a. the experiences in other regions of the United States with the operation and forest resource harvesting practices of chip mills;
b. the impact to Missouri's natural resources from new and existing chip mills in Missouri or neighboring states, including current and potential social, economic, and environmental impacts;
c. the potential environmental impacts, including soil erosion, sedimentation, water quality, watershed protection, habitat loss, biological diversity, outdoor recreation and tourism, and the additional requirements that may need to be incorporated into any permit process to provide protection against such impacts;
d. the sustainability of Missouri's forest resources under current timber production levels;
e. the capacity of Missouri's forest resources to sustain increased chip mill production levels;
f. the impact of chip mills on value added industries and high value forest products; and
g. the long-term profitability of private forests.
5. The purposes of the Advisory Committee shall also include:
a. developing a consensus around the study results and providing an opportunity for public involvement; and
b. reviewing forest resource management and protection standards, policies and processes in Missouri and other jurisdictions to identify alternatives for assuring economic and environmental sustainability.
6. The Advisory Committee on Chip Mills shall submit its final study, including recommended reforms, to the Governor no later than December 1, 1999. The Advisory Committee shall automatically cease to exist on that date, unless extended by subsequent executive action. By January 1, 1999, the Committee shall make any interim recommendations for legislative or regulatory action necessary to prevent irreparable harm to the environment.
7. The Advisory Committee on Chip Mills shall be co-chaired by the Directors of the Department of Natural Resources and Department of Conservation, or their designees, with the assistance of the Directors of the Department of Economic Development and Agriculture, or the directors' designees. These Departments shall provide appropriate staffing to support the activities of the Advisory Committee. The Attorney General's Office is requested to provide legal advice and assistance to the Advisory Committee.
8. The Advisory Committee on Chip Mills shall work cooperatively with all committees of the Missouri General Assembly convened for the purpose of studying and addressing the impact of chip mills in the State of Missouri.
9. All proceedings of the Advisory Committee on Chip Mills shall be conducted in accordance with the "Open Meetings Law" as provided in Chapter 610, RSMo.
10. The Departments of Natural Resources, Conservation, Economic Development, and Agriculture shall develop a funding means to reimburse members of the Advisory Committee on Chip Mills for their actual and necessary expenses and other costs connected with Advisory Committee business.
11. The Advisory Committee on Chip Mills shall be composed of 14 members appointed by the Governor consisting of the following:
12. From the date of this executive order until the Committee makes its recommendations to the Governor, all executive departments and agencies of the State of Missouri shall refrain from providing new economic incentives to develop or expand chip mills in the State of Missouri.
13. Because chip mill operations and associated forest harvesting practices can result in increased soil erosion and water quality degradation during the period of the study, I am directing the Department of Natural Resources to:
a. condition future permits to require logger training of all contractors and employees of chip mills in the use of sustainable logging practices and Best Management Practices designed to protect water quality;
b. include a requirement in future permits for chip mills to provide the location of supplies and harvest areas of forest resources to be processed. This would give professional forest resource managers the opportunity to offer assistance in developing sustainable forestry plans and Best Management Practices to protect water quality;
c. include in future permits "Re-Open Clauses" that would allow reopening permits in order to address documented adverse impacts resulting from industry operations; and
d. limit the duration of permits related to the operation of chip mills to no greater than one year from the date of permit issuance.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused to be affixed the Great Seal of the State of Missouri, in the City of Jefferson, on this 18th day of September, 1998.
/s/ Mel Carnahan
Governor
ATTEST:
/s/ Rebecca McDowell Cook
Secretary of State
The following letter
was sent to Gov. Carnahan requesting that the Missouri Society of American Foresters be represented on the Advisory Committee on Chip Mills.Dear Governor Carnahan:
The Missouri Society of American Foresters, composed of nearly 200 forestry professionals located throughout the state, has recently learned of Executive Order 98-16. We understand this forms an advisory committee which will explore the impacts of chip mills. We applaud your decision to form this committee since it recognizes the importance of Missouri's forest resource and sets out to thoroughly study the impacts of the chip mill industry on that resource. Our Society, with your thoughtful consideration, wishes to be a part of that process and hereby respectfully requests representation on that committee.
As the largest professional forestry organization in the State of Missouri, our Society feels we are aptly qualified to participate on that committee. We believe we would bring much to the table concerning the chip mill issue. Our membership is composed of a diverse array of foresters whose backgrounds include: academia, private industry, private consulting, and both state and federal government service foresters. Collectively, our membership has a wealth of scientific and practical experience to draw from which we feel would well serve the Chip Mill Advisory Committee.
We realize the emotion surrounding this issue and understand the citizens of Missouri are rightly concerned about the state's natural resources they so highly value. Our members are also concerned about those resources. As professionals, we pride ourselves in practicing and promoting scientific and ethical forestry conservation.
Again, we would be honored to have a Missouri Society of American Foresters member serve on the chip mill committee and humbly offer our services. We urge you to seriously consider the appointment of one of our members to that committee.
Sincerely,
/s/ Rocky Hayes, Chair
Missouri Society of American Foresters
Fall Meeting Minutes
The meeting was called to order at 4:34 p.m. by Rocky Hayes. Fifty-five members were present. Rocky welcomed everyone and introduced the new members and guests including Bill Banzhaf, SAF Executive Vice President.
The Treasurer's report was read by Lynn Barnickol. There is a balance of $11,373.06 in the checking account and $22,355.85 in CDs as of 9/30/98. The minutes from the winter meeting were read. A motion was made by Gene Brunk and seconded by Duane Parker to accept the minutes as read.
Committee Reports:
Programs - Bob Cunningham presented some housekeeping items about the night's fish fry and the Chip Mill program the next day. He also passed out a position statement from the American Fisheries Society and the Executive Order from the Governor on the chip mill issue. Strong encouragement was given to the membership to familiarize yourself with all sides of the issue.
Audit - Rocky Hayes reported that he and Doug Young had worked with the Forest Service accounting for the money that is in our account associated with the Project Learning Tree grant. The two of them were able to more than satisfy all requirements.
Communication - Matt Jones reported that the current SAF display is dated. The committee is seeking suggestions on updating it. The committee is also working on the MOSAF web page. Ideas are needed to make the page interesting to members and the general public. Rocky Hayes discussed an SAF display that can be borrowed from the national office. He had seen it at the National Convention. Bill Banzhaf suggested it would be appropriate for our winter meeting but we need to reserve it as soon as possible. It needs an 8' x 10' booth space. Matt will check on reserving it.
Newsletter - Bruce Palmer reported that the fall issue is in progress. The deadline for submitting articles is October 15. Please send submissions in electronic format if possible. Bruce also reported on the Centennial Forest Plan. This plan outlines what MO SAF wants to do in the year 2000 to highlight Missouri achievements in the last 100 years. Working through the Missouri Department of Conservation, Bruce developed a broad-based approach that includes working with the state library system to develop a summer reading theme and developing a Missouri version of the Gifford Pinchot one man interpretive play to be available at Nature Centers. Bruce is looking for people to promote forestry and the 100-year theme. If interested please see Bruce.
Education - Wayne Wittmeyer reported that by October 15 they would have a list of past programs eligible for CEU credit put together and submitted to Bruce Palmer for inclusion in the newsletter.
Foresters Fund - The Executive Committee at their October 1, 1998 meeting brain stormed ways to generate revenue. Ideas include a dunking booth at the Natural Resource conference. Rocky Hayes extended the challenge to donate one item for small raffles and to come up with ideas. At the National Convention Rocky and Bob Cunningham participated in a 5K run. Bill Altman suggested sending out reminder asking for donations two to three weeks prior to the Natural Resource Conference. Rocky noted that businesses are willing to donate items. We just need to ask.
Membership - Mike Morris reported that we have 194 members. This is down another five from 1997 on top of the big loss we sustained in 1996. Mike pointed out that we lack representation from private industry. The committee requested ideas and committee members. The Student Mentor Program has approximately 20 mentors. Mike asked for new volunteers. The committee is still working on the insurance issue which resulted in the cancellation of the summer float trip with MU students at summer camp. The next student mentor activity scheduled is for Saturday, October 17, 1998 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Nifong Park in Columbia, MO. The committee will host a Fall Bar-B-Que. Participant can than drive over to Faurot field to watch the football game. A final head count is needed by 10/13. Bill Banzhaf offered comments and suggestions highlighting what other states have done to increase membership. Michigan has an Employer Breakfast which offers them an opportunity to tell the employer about SAF and ask what SAF can provide to make better employees. Bill discussed the member-get-a-member initiative. Contact Lori Gardener or Louise at the National office for more information. Bill provided handouts on give aways associated with recruiting new members.
Natural Areas - Brian Schweiss reported that the committee was brainstorming ways to develop promotional materials to identify SAF Natural Areas. The committee is still working on the top 10 natural areas looking to find forest associations that we're still missing.
Nominations - Tom Ronk presented a slate of offices for 1999. He reported being frustrated in finding non-MDC members to run.
Chair-Elect: Mike Hoffmann, John Fleming
Secretary-Treasurer: Bill Altman, Doug Halliwell, Art Suchland, Justine Gartner, Steve Spezia
Nominations were accepted from the floor of which there were none. Helene Miller moved that we accept the slate of officers. It was seconded and approved. The list of above candidates will be on the ballot in the fall. Tom Ronk emphasized that when the membership received their ballot please vote. We want a greater than 40% turnout.
Policy Legislation - Tom Draper highlighted the need to develop a position statement on the chip mill issue to provide input to the Governor. This issue will be the focus of the committee this year. A position statement will be developed and ready by the Natural Resource Conference.
Natural Resource Conference - Dennis Rhoades was not present but Rocky Hayes commented on the effort required to direct this conference. The Natural Resource Conference steering committee has entered into another 2 year contract with Tan-Tar-A.
Old Business:
Leadership Academy - Bob Cunningham reported that he attended this past summer. It was by far the best training session he has been to in his career. The academy gives a greater appreciation to what SAF does. Rocky Hayes mentioned that other states have tried to duplicate it. Appreciation was extended to Bill Banzhaf and his staff.
Forest Heritage Center - Duane Parked reported that the land transfer of the Twin Pines site from US Forest Service ownership to MDC ownership has happened. MDC has not transferred ownership to the Center. Instead MDC leadership has requested a presentation at the November Commission meeting outlining the Center's mission and goals leading into why the property should be transferred to the Center. A Trustees meeting is scheduled next week to discuss this November presentation. The Timber Sports Event at Silver Dollar City was to have been a major money maker for the Heritage Center. Silver Dollar City has strung us a long all summer indicating that participation would be possible. In recent weeks SDC has gone silent and backed away from the opportunity. In short it's a dead issue for this year.
Day in the Forest - An event is set for October 17 at Parkville Nature Sanctuary which is 6 miles from downtown Kansas City. Helene Miller is coordinating the event and is looking for more help. Stations around a trail are planned.
Rocky requested that we keep several people in mind. Mick Kimberling last spring was diagnosed with inoperable lung cancer. In the last few weeks he was diagnosed with brain cancer. Your thoughts and letters would be appreciated. Shelby Jones has his address. Bill Kickbush has an excellent prognosis from his doctor. He is undergoing the second phase of chemotherapy. Chris England is doing well.
National Office - Bill Banzhaf expressed pleasure to be here. He quickly discussed the Leadership Academy noting that Susan Romano who is new to MOSAF was involved in developing the curriculum of the original academy.
A motion to adjourn was made by Gene Brunk and seconded by Duane Parker. The motion was carried and the meeting was adjourned at 5:40 p.m..
Justine Gartner, Acting Secretary
"It's a great time to be a forester." This was the message conveyed by Bill Banzhaf, SAF Executive Vice President, to the Missouri SAF membership attending the Chip Mill meeting at Van Buren. I totally agree and as 2000 approaches, we will have some of the best opportunities ever to promote SAF's mission and our roles as professionals.
Last year, a national alliance was formed between SAF and Habitat for Humanity International, a non-profit organization that builds homes for families in need. SAF has set a goal to build 100 homes nationwide by 2000. Think about it, here is our chance to demonstrate the collaborative relationship between people and the forest. After all, as we manage forests, we not only develop wildlife habitat, we also grow the products that are used for people habitat.
During the National SAF Convention at Traverse City, Michigan, attendees donated their time, talent and resources to build a home for a local family. It was truly remarkable to witness piles of building materials changing into a home at the convention site. In less than one week, a framed structure was ready to move to its permanent location. Due to the project's uniqueness, media coverage was continuous and extensive.
Rocky Hayes and I both took turns hammering and sawing in Michigan. We both agree that MOSAF needs to be involved with future projects. How can our 200+ members participate? HFH has 38 affiliates in Missouri and volunteers are needed at all levels. Perhaps on a regional basis, members could spend a day helping with a local project. If you are not sure of your carpentry skills, why not offer to do the landscaping and tree planting. Now who is more qualified to do this?
The year 2000 will be SAF's Centennial. As a part of the celebration, the National SAF Office is creating a video that dramatically demonstrates the vital role we play in preserving our nation's forests. Our profession has contributed many positive achievements over the past century and it's time to put our efforts into the forefront. Locally, Bruce Palmer is working on a number of related projects for Missouri's celebration. This year will be a busy one for him and I am sure he needs your help.
Last spring, I attended the SAF National Leadership Academy at Potosi, Missouri. Chair-elects from each of the state and multistate societies plus the working groups spent four days learning about SAF, how to motivate and understand people, and how to work through problems.
The Academy was a tremendous opportunity to exchange ideas with people from all over the country. The forestry issues we face in Missouri are really no different than the issues in their regions. I learned that success with any problem becomes a matter of attitude. The real winners could take any issue and turn it into a golden opportunity, or in other words, when life hands you a lemon, then go make lemonade.
Missouri foresters have been handed some lemons. To mention a few, the public is concerned with chip mills, timber cutting on State and National Forests, and clean water. Has forestry in Missouri ever had this much public focus? Now while we have their attention, let's show them what a society of foresters can do.
Karkhagne Award - Nominations are now being accepted for the Karkhagne Award. The Karkhagne Award is the highest honor given by the Missouri Society of American Foresters. It recognizes a SAF member who has made significant contributions to the profession. Nomination forms may be obtained from Chair Rocky Hayes, 2302 County Park Road, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701; 573/290-5730.
Forester's Fund - The Forester's Fund is interested in obtaining hand-made articles to be used as raffle items. Many of you are talented photographers, artists and woodworkers. Consider donating an item to help out the Forester's Fund. For more information, contact Forester's Fund Chair Lonnie Messbarger, 701 NE College Drive, St. Joseph, MO 64507; 816/271-3100.
Exhibit Update - The SAF exhibit has received lots of use and is in need of some renovation. Many of the photographs are worn and out of date and need to be replaced. We are looking for good 35 mm slides that represent a variety of Missouri forest types and SAF activities. If you have slides you are willing to loan, contact Communications Chair Matt Jones, 303 S. Main, Ironton, MO 63650; 573/546-6993.
Natural Areas - The MOSAF Natural Areas Committee has been on a quest for several years to locate a "Top Ten" list of forest cover types for Missouri. To date we have several unique types listed along with some very common ones. Some of the more common types include white oak, shortleaf pine and shortleaf pine/oak cover types. Some more obscure ones include hawthorn and sassafras/persimmon types.
We are still on this quest and need your help. Cover types that are still needed include a walnut type, river birch/sycamore type, cypress and cypress/tupelo types and post oak/black oak types. Many of these probably exist in your area and you even know where! It's just are busy schedules that keep us from documenting them. If you know of one and have the time drop Brian Schweiss a line at (660) 385-6359. He can forward you a description and the needed paper work that needs to be filled out.
The 1999 dues invoices went out to all members earlier this month. As you know, Council voted to increase dues in 1999. All members will see a dues increase on their invoice. The last dues increase occurred in 1990. Since then, SAF has implemented several new programs and member benefits. They include a website site with a member only area, The Forestry Source newspaper which is free to SAF members, and the creation of several new positions including Associate Director of Congressional Affairs and State Society Support Manager.
A hardship rate is available for members experiencing financial difficulty. Members can contact Carol McKernon at the national office at (301) 897-8720 ext. 108 or by e-mail at mckernoc@safnet.org.
Don't forget the following SAF benefits you receive as a member:
February 1-3, 1999 at Tan-Tar-A Resort, Osage Beach, Missouri. Conference theme is "Modern Resource Management: Myth, Mystery...Prophecy." Do we make a difference? Why bother managing for renewable resources at all? Who knows best? What does the future hold for resource management professionals?
For information contact Joel Sartwell, MNRC Program Chair, 1110 South College Avenue, Columbia, MO 65201; telephone 573/882-9880 x 3245; sartwj@mail.conservation.state.mo.us. Visit the MNRC web site for more conference information: http://www.conservation.state.mo.us/mnrc/mnrc99.html
| Chair
Rocky Hayes 2302 County Park Road Cape Girardeau, MO 63701 573/290-5730 Fax: 573/290-5736 hayesr@mail.conservation.state.mo.us |
Membership
Mike Morris Route 1 Box 1002 Piedmont, MO 63989 573/223-4525 Fax: 573/223-2341 morrim@mail.conservation.state.mo.us |
| Chair-elect
Bob Cunningham P.O. Box 138 West Plains, MO 65775 417/256-7161 x 225 Fax: 417/256-0429 cunnib@mail.conservation.state.mo.us |
Natural Areas
Brian Schweiss 28898 US Hwy. 63 Macon, MO 63552 660/385-6359 Fax: 660/385-5359 macon@mail.conservation.state.mo.us |
| Secretary/Treasurer
Mike Hoffmann P.O. Box 248 Sullivan, MO 63080 573/468-4157 Fax: 573/468-5434 hoffmm@mail.conservation.state.mo.us |
Nominating
Tom Ronk P.O. Box 180 Jefferson City, MO 65102 573/751-4115 x 301 Fax: 573/526-6670 ronkt@mail.conservation.state.mo.us |
| Audit
Doug Young P.O. Box 180 Jefferson City, MO 65102 573/751-4115 x 112 Fax: 573/751-4865 youngd@mail.conservation.state.mo.us |
Policy & Legislative
Tom Draper Route 1 Box 1002 Piedmont, MO 63957 573/223-4525 Fax: 573/223-2341 drapet@mail.conservation.state.mo.us |
| Council, Fellows & Awards
Greg Hoss 14027 Shafer Road Licking, MO 65542 573/6743229 Fax: 573/674-4047 hossg@mail.conservation.state.mo.us |
Program
Bob Cunningham P.O. Box 138 West Plains, MO 65775 417/256-7161 x 225 Fax: 417/256-0429 cunnib@mail.conservation.state.mo.us |
| Communications
Matt Jones 303 S. Main Ironton, MO 63650 573/546-6993 ironton@mail.conservation.state.mo.us |
Resolutions
Joe Walker P.O. Box 188 Potosi, MO 63664 573/438-5427 |
| Education
Wayne Wittmeyer P.O. Box 180 Jefferson City, MO 65102 573/751-4115 x 627 Fax: 573/526-6670 wittmw@mail.conservation.state.mo.us |
Tellers
Bill Kickbusch 1712 Soest Drive Rolla, MO 65401 573/364-3235 |
| Forester's Fund
Lonnie Messbarger 701 NE College Drive St. Joseph, MO 64507 816/2713100 Fax: 816/2713107 messbl@mail.conservation.state.mo.us |
Newsletter Editor
Bruce Palmer P.O. Box 180 Jefferson City, MO 65102 573/7514115 x 113 Fax: 573/7518757 palmeb@mail.conservation.state.mo.us |
| National Office
Society of American Foresters 5400 Grosvenor Lane Bethesda, MD 20814 301/8978720 Fax: 301/8973690 www.safnet.org |
State Address
Missouri Society of American Foresters P.O. Box 7063 Jefferson City, MO 65102 |