SWCD convened a meeting with key stakeholders to review the findings of the forest inventory at Dwyer Park and begin getting feedback for the forest management plan. The Dwyer Park forest consists of over 33 species of trees, and nearly 3500 trees of qualifying size and location were inventoried and documented. Data from the inventoried trees was evaluated using the i-Tree Eco model developed by the Forest Service. The model estimates that the Dwyer Park forest removes 1700 lbs of pollution per year, sequesters over 28 tons of carbon per year, and is storing over 1500 tons of carbon with a value of $257,000.
In addition to the environmental values, the park is an important recreational asset in the community. It also has significant cultural and historical values. Of concern to stakeholder representatives was the large number of trees identified for removal. These trees currently are marked with a paint dot. The majority of trees recommended for removal are ash. There are over 600 white ash and green ash inventoried in the park, all of which are or will be infected by Emerald Ash Borer and die. Though many are in the forested area, some are also in the park picnic areas. Decisions regarding removal, timing and replacement plantings will be included in the management plan.
SWCD and the forestry consultant are seeking input from the community. The Inventory i-Tree report is available for review, as is a draft management plan. A final draft plan is expected to be released in early November for additional public comment. Send comments to amanda.barber@cortlandswcd.org with subject “Dwyer Park Forest.”
