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Harvesting Large Diameter Northern Red Oak

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From: DON CIERI City: Oneida, NY
I have 6 red oak trees 47" and above at DBH and approx. 70+ tall. Several loggers have approached me about cutting them. They have offered what I consider low prices. I estimate that they contain more than 2500 bdft and at $75 per face cord for fire wood are worth more than $1000 ea. I believe it would be sinful to cut these trees down unless they have reach the end of their life(mature) or are damaged. What is your opinion?
	Extension Message From: Jay Hayek Extension Specialist, Forestry Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences jhayek@illinois.edu
Hi Don: Everyone has there own thoughts and opinions regarding economic maturity vs. biological maturity. However, 47-inch DBH northern red oaks here in the Midwest would be considered "way overmature" for that species from a harvesting and utilization standpoint. I would suspect that these trees have some significant butt rot, but they might be sound -- don't know, as I haven't seen the trees. And yes, some trees are more valuable for firewood -- your call, because they're your trees! Best, Jay
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