The southern block of Massacoe State Forest is a structurally and ecologically diverse east-west wildlife corridor. The forest is healthy, and invasive-free – and logging is never appropriate during wet conditions, migration, or nesting season.
The majority of the trees of all species are being cut or crushed. The trees that are being cut and sold are healthy oaks. Connecticut’s oaks are of great concern for wildlife and pollinators. Oaks also store and sequester high amounts of carbon.
Public land is for the public good, and routine forest management is not the highest and best use of public land in the face of a climate crisis, a biodiversity crisis and a pandemic.
We are asking you to cease this project and consider additonal information.
We are asking you to revisit state forest management based on unbiased interdisciplinary science – climate science, ecology, public health – consider all impacts and always first do no harm. Fund public agencies to increase long-term monitoring, research and data collection and outreach to private forests to prevent conversion and mismanagement.
We are asking you update the DEEP website with public education on:
- the cumulative carbon and biodiversity benefits of nature preserves
- the proven resilience of unmanaged forests / nature preserves
- the ecological value of old growth and old forests. They are rare in Connecticut!
Not taking these actions is irresponsible. Please ensure that CT DEEP aligns with what is best for the people of Connecticut as well as the planet.