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BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Idaho land managers are planning two major timber sales to salvage trees that have been killed or damaged by a moth infestation.
The Idaho Department of Lands announced the timber salvage sales Monday. The timber covers a total of just over 3 square miles (8 square kilometers) near Smiths Ferry, Banks and Crouch in the Packer John State Forest.
Department leaders said in a prepared statement that the Douglas fir-tussock moth infestation has created a significant fire danger because of the dead and dying trees. The trees could also fall, creating a risk for recreationists in the area. The trees will still have economic value if they are cut soon, but department officials fear the value will rapidly decrease if other insects infest the wood or it begins to dry and crack.
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