On Thursday, September 26, 2024, a timber harvest was conducted in the White Lake School Forest east block, as per the DNR Forest Stewardship Plan.
Over 200 students from Antigo, Elcho, and White Lakes Schools combined visited throughout the day to witness the harvest in action first-hand. Students rotated through four interactive stations.
At the timber processing station students observed a processor cutting down trees, removing the limbs and measuring and cutting them to the correct length. They were then loaded onto the skidder to be moved to the landing. From there, they will either end up at a paper mill or lumber yard.
The tree identification station involved students in recognizing distinguishing characteristics of common native trees of northern Wisconsin, as well as some nonnatives, and a discussion of common tree diseases.
Students learned about the equipment and practices for fighting and preventing wildfires from a DNR representative at the next station. Various equipment was on display for discussion as well as an opportunity for students to try out a backpack water sprayer.
The last station involved students in an interactive activity focused on the importance of forest management and why the timber harvest is vital for the overall health of the forest and the animals that live there. The timber harvest day was the result of the combined efforts of the Steve Marshall family, the Langlade County Forestry Department, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and the White Lake School District.
Special thanks go out to Steve Marshall and his family for conducting the logging operation. Additional thanks to Pecha Septic for the donation of a port-o-potty for the day.
