Forest Preservation How You Can Help

forest

Environmental Costs from Logging

Habitat Destruction
The removal of trees at record levels is also removing the natural habitat for the hundreds of plant and animal species in the CNNF.  The Wisconsin’s Northwoods are composed of northern hardwoods including maples, birch, mixed conifers and aspens along with other critical forest vegetation.  When the forest is cleared, animals are forced to relocate, placing even more pressure on the shrinking natural landscape.

Waterway Pollution
The impact of logging can be felt in the waterways of the region as well.  The natural function of trees is to filter and purify our water supply but with the extensive logging, the natural function of the forest ecosystem is challenged. With fewer trees in and above the ground, there is less material to naturally clean up waterways impacting the overall ecosystem, soil structure and long-term health of Wisconsin’s rivers and streams.

Species Lost
Studies show that widespread logging of mature northern hardwoods and aspen has harmed populations of some threatened and endangered species in Wisconsin.  Old growth and established forests offers nesting area for the threatened Northern goshawk and Red-shouldered as well as the endangered pine martin, a small weasel-like animal related to minks, otters and badgers, which is estimated to have fewer than 50 animals in CNNF.  Similarly insects like the Hine's emerald dragonfly, indicators of healthy, clean waterways and wetlands, are increasingly disappearing from the area.

Global Warming
At the rate of cutting employed over the last 10 years, every single log-able acre in CNNF will be cut in 45 years. The harmful impacts of such extensive logging on waterways, habitat and related natural resources and conservation efforts are significant. What’s more, scientific research is beginning to show that logging in the CNNF may contribute to global warming.

The Chequamegon Ecosystem Atmosphere Study—a multi-organizational research effort studying biosphere/atmosphere interactions within the forest—points to the role of Wisconsin forests in sequestering carbon dioxide produced in North America. Widespread logging in CNNF is creating a younger, more fragmented forest and turning this potentially huge carbon sink into a net emitter of carbon.

loggingHow you can help 

1. Write the Forest Service
The U.S. Forest Service continues to claim that logging improves habitat for sensitive species. But fewer trees and more animals just doesn’t add up. Studies show that widespread logging of mature northern hardwoods and aspen has harmed populations of some threatened and endangered species in Wisconsin. 
Take Action

2. Sign-up for ELPC’s Forest Action email updates
Go to ELPC’s Online Action Center and select "Natural Places" to receive monthly updates on Chequemegon Nicolet National Forest and how you can help.
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3.  Pass this information to a friend
Inform your friends and colleagues by passing on this important information about Wisconsin’s Northwoods.
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Take Action
Write the Forest Service  
The U.S. Forest Service continues to claim that logging improves habitat for sensitive species. But fewer trees and more animals just doesn’t add up. Studies show that widespread logging of mature northern hardwoods and aspen has harmed populations of some threatened and endangered species in Wisconsin.
Tell the Forest Service to keep the forests sustainable for people and wildlife for years to come. Send or email a letter to Forest Service Supervisor Jeanne Higgins via:

  • email:  jmhiggins@fs.fed.us  OR
  • snail mail: CNNF Headquarters

    Forest Service Supervisor Jeanne Higgins
    1170 4th Avenue South
    Park Falls, WI 54552

Letter Writing Tips
When you write the letter remember to include the following key points:

  • CNNF is an important natural resource for Wisconsin.
  • The Forest Service needs to do a better job of monitoring the impacts of our important Wisconsin resource and rely on the best science available.
  • Make it personal.  One of the best ways to get the attention of the Forest Service is to demonstrate the impact of their decisions on you and your family.
  • Keep it short and sweet.  The tone of the letter should always be courteous and short enough to make sure your point does not get lost.
  • Include your name, home address and contact information.
  • Follow-up.  If your letter goes unanswered, drop a quick note to your recipient to make sure your letter was in fact received.
  • Email ELPC.  We would love to see a copy of your letter—email it to kdixon@elpc.org.