RE: Pa Game Comm. Overhaul
DougE,
First, I never said "all the commission had to do was cut trees".
If the land is State Game Land and it's sole purpose is for wildlife habitat not timber profit then I would say 1% to possibly 2% can be cut if done properly. It can't be done in one big tract, and varying methods should be implemented. Hinge cutting creates bedding habitat like a sanctuary for deer to live in. This will limit access of hunters just because of the terrain it creates. Only the truly ambitious hunter will want to walk through that jungle and odds of not spooking bedded deer are minimal. There needs to be other areas designed for feeding as hinge cutting does provide browse, some light is limited due to leaving the tops and it isn't the most practical method for replanting more protein rich trees and plants. I believe this % can be used on an 80 yr cycle. But every year there must be continued cutting and replanting of different grids selected for harvest in a set rotation.