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  Lush Ponderosa pine forests are pleasing to the eye, but sometimes they can become so thick, that they are no longer beneficial to the organisms that depend on them for food, water and shelter. In addition, they become more susceptible to disease and parasites such as dwarf mistletoe. Pre-commercial thinning (removal of trees less than 9 inches in diameter at breast height) is one method that managers use to help restore more historical structure in a ponderosa forest. Carefully managed thinning projects provide more open canopy for prey species, like the Northern Goshawk, listed as a ‘Regional Sensitive Species.’ Trees left standing not only thrive, but also provide crucial goshawk nesting habitat, while downed trees and snags provide valuable habitat for small insects and mammals upon which goshawk prey. |
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