Forester and Logger Response to Emerald Ash Borer in Massachusetts and Vermont: a Secondary Disturbance

Abstract

Forester and logger responses to the invasive emerald ash borer (EAB) could substantially affect regions across the United States. We analyzed forester and logger responses to EAB in Massachusetts and Vermont, exploring characteristics associated with purposeful targeting of substantial ash properties; managing forests differently because of EAB; and regeneration goals. One-third of respondents increased timber sales on ash properties, motivated by ecological, not economic, impacts of EAB. Nearly 60% said EAB changed their management activity in stands with ash; changes influenced by the ecological impact of EAB and not economic factors. Those influenced by EAB’s ecological impact to choose properties with substantial ash were more likely to have increased harvest area size, sawtimber removal, and harvest intensity. Loggers were more likely than foresters to remove small-diameter ash and low-grade trees. Both rated regenerating economically valuable species well adapted to the site as their highest essential priority. Study Implications: There is a finite window to address emerald ash borer (EAB) to sustain ash and its cultural, ecological, and economic benefits. Given the time constraint and limited resources available to address EAB, finding strategic approaches to mitigate EAB impact is critical. This survey sought to understand forester and logger response to EAB; given their impact on the landscape, informing their management strategies is one critical approach to the conservation of ash. Understanding the ecological impact of current management approaches could help optimize silvicultural strategies. Silvicultural strategies mitigating EAB ecological impacts would likely be of greatest interest to foresters and loggers.