Timber harvest planned to improve wildlife habitat and forest health at Farragut Wildlife Management Area

A multi-benefit forest management timber harvest is scheduled to begin soon at the Farragut Wildlife Management Area and will be completed as quickly as possible.

The harvest will take place south of East Perimeter Road and west of North Perimeter Road and is designed to:

• increase sunlight through the forest canopy to promote the growth of plants that provide food and habitat for a variety of wildlife species,
• increase habitat diversity within the WMA,
• retain wildlife habitat by ensuring adequate snags and large downed trees are maintained,
• improve forest health by removing diseased trees, while supporting the growth of more disease-resistant tree species like the western white pine,
• reduce fuel loads and lower the risk of wildfire spread along the perimeter of the WMA and
• improve the existing road system and enhance access for emergency services and first responders.

Overall, the project will benefit wildlife, habitat, forest health and public safety.

Visitors traveling through the area or planning to visit Farragut WMA or Farragut State Park during the harvest should expect logging equipment and log trucks entering and leaving the harvest area. Portions of the Buggy Trail will be temporarily closed during operations to ensure public safety. Any trail closures will be clearly marked and coordinated with Idaho Parks and Recreation.

For your safety and the safety of workers, please stay clear of all active equipment and work areas during the harvest.

The Farragut WMA was originally a U.S. Navy base and was transferred to Idaho Fish and Game in 1950. Today, the 1,418-acre WMA and the adjacent 2,580-acre Farragut State Park are cooperatively managed by Fish and Game and Parks and Recreation to provide wildlife habitat and recreational opportunities for the public.

For questions or to learn more about the forest management harvest, please contact the Panhandle Regional Office at (208) 769-1414.

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