Jack Spaulding

“A forest is more than trees for timber.” If you followed recent media coverage of the sale at Yellowwood State Forest, you might be surprised to read this statement. …The truth is both the well-meaning people who opposed the sale and the DNR love our state forests, but differ on how to care for them. The preservationist’s approach for the backcountry woodland is hands-off, letting nature take its course. The DNR’s is to scientifically manage the ecosystem. …Indiana law dictates the DNR “protect and conserve timber, water resources, wildlife and topsoil in forests owned and operated by the division of forestry” and use “good husbandry” to remove timber with substantial commercial value “in a manner that benefits the growth of saplings.”