North Central Research Station

Best Management Practices

Forests are managed for a wide range of desired outcomes including fiber production, water quality, wildlife habitat and
esthetic appeal. Best management Practices or BMPs are guidelines designed to meet the desired outcomes while protecting and maintaining forest ecosystems for future generations. Our research continues to test and improve on current recommendations for forest managers, especially those related to areas near surface waters and wetlands.

Costs of Minnesota Forestry Best Management Practices - Although the guidelines impact forest landowners and timber harvesters through the limitations imposed such as building erosion control structures, leaving merchantable tress for wildlife or using alternative skid trail patterns, the financial cost is not well known.

Seasonal Wetlands - Although guidelines are well-developed for forests associated with stream ecosystems, guidelines for seasonal wetlands are limited.

Riparian Harvesting - Voluntary site-level timber harvesting and forest management guidelines to address riparian, wildlife habitat, soil, water quality, wetlands, visual quality and historic and cultural resources were finalized in Minnesota in 1998. This project is designed to provide an analysis of the effectiveness of these guidelines.

Related Studies

Costs of Minnesota Forestry BMPs Seasonal Wetlands Study - Minnesota BMPs Riparian Harvesting Study - Forestry BMPs