Patrick D. Hackley

This document provides a five-year highlights report for New Hampshire's State Forest Action Plan, which guides efforts to achieve three United States Forest Service National Priorities: conserving and managing working forest landscapes, protecting forests from threats, and enhancing public benefits from trees and forests. The report summarizes key accomplishments in public engagement and education, increasing the use of technology, invasive species management, managing working forests through the lens of carbon, and developing forest markets and workforce.

The meeting included updates on timber harvests, road maintenance, and forest management projects. A CFI presentation discussed growth expectations and data comparison with FIA. The FEMC Nash Stream Forest Carbon Study revealed the forest sequesters significantly more carbon than it releases through harvesting. Updates were provided on the OHRV season, DES Dam projects, and the election of a new Committee Chair and Vice Chair. The committee discussed the Nash Stream Forest Management Plan revision, including the timeline, focus on climate change, and the potential need for a steering committee.

The management plan for Pisgah State Park focuses on protecting and enhancing natural, recreational, and cultural resources. Key areas of focus include managing water resources, conserving natural communities, protecting forest health, and preserving cultural resources. The plan aims to balance multiple uses of the park, including recreation, timber harvesting, and wildlife habitat management, while maintaining ecological integrity. The intended lifespan of this plan is 25 years ending in AD 2035.

The meeting included updates on forest management and road activities, including timber harvests and road maintenance. There was also a trails update, focusing on the Kelsey Notch and West Side ATV trails, including information on rock crushing, grading, and trail counters. The committee discussed camp updates regarding insurance requirements and lease agreements, including an increase in lease fees based on the NE Consumer Index. An update was provided on dam projects at Little Bog Pond (LBP) and Lower Trio, including design details and construction plans. The committee also discussed a request to close the Bordeau Trail early for hunters and voted to close all Nash Trails after Columbus Day weekend.

The meeting included updates on timber harvests and road maintenance, including the completion of the Compartment 6 timber sale, mowing and grading of roads, and replacement of culverts. There was a DES Dam Update concerning the replacement of Little Bog Pond and Trio Pond dams with concrete dams in 2025, with discussions about potential environmental impacts and access concerns. Updates were provided on the Westside OHRV Trail and Kelsey Notch OHRV Trail, including trail counts and maintenance. Camp Lease Updates addressed compliance with insurance requirements, and a discussion about a group insurance policy for camp owners. The need for better communication with camp owners about meetings was raised during public comment.