Pike County's Woods-Based Industry

Pike County's Woods-Based Industry

In the picturesque landscape of Pike County, Ohio, the importance of proper woodland management is gaining attention among local residents. This practice not only enhances forest health and wildlife habitat but also offers significant economic benefits.

According to economic impact analyses, the value-added in Pike County's Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, and Hunting industry stands at $22,648,375, with the forest industries generating an impressive $56.4 million in industrial output and $3.21 million in taxes. The industrial output in the Forestry and Logging industry alone is $3,947,109. These figures underscore the sector's crucial role in the local economy.

Pike County's forest resources were analysed using data from the 2011 forest survey database provided by the United States Forest Service's Forest Inventory and Analysis. Covering 440 square miles (281,780 acres) and home to a population of 28,600, the county is dotted with 530 agricultural farms that produce various crops, cattle, calves, and dairy and milk products.

For those interested in managing their woodlands, several options are available. One can join a local forestry association, consult various sources for further information, or consider hiring an Ohio Master Logging Company. To learn more about woodland management specifically in Pike County, Ohio, exploring the following resources may be beneficial:

1. **Contact Local Foresters or Arborists**: Local forestry professionals can provide assistance with managing your woodland and are knowledgeable about Ohio forest-related programs such as the Ohio Forest Tax Law, which offers benefits for woodland owners managing their woods.

2. **Engage with Ohio State University Extension Programs**: OSU Extension offers workshops and events on woodland management and invasive species control that can be very relevant. For example, they organize educational workshops demonstrating best spraying techniques and new technologies in pest management, which are crucial aspects of woodland health.

3. **Reach Out to Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR)**: The ODNR Division of Wildlife manages habitat protection in Ohio and provides resources on habitat conservation and woodland wildlife, such as bald eagle habitat management.

4. **Local Forestry Consultants and Timber Companies**: Local contacts may be found through state forestry offices or extension services. These professionals are licensed to assist with timber management, harvesting, and woodland maintenance.

5. **Community and Metro Parks Events**: Keep an eye on local parks and community event listings for workshops and hands-on activities about native plants, pollinators, and woodland ecosystem management which may occasionally be held near or in Pike County.

Starting with the Ohio State University Extension (OSU Extension) and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) websites or offices will be most productive. They frequently offer woodland management resources, expert advice, and events tailored for Ohio woodland owners.

If you're looking for very local Pike County-specific resources, try contacting the Pike County Soil and Water Conservation District or local farm bureaus for personalized assistance and guidance on woodland management programs available in your county.

It's also worth noting that managing timber requires less long-term inputs compared to many other land uses. This, along with benefits such as cost share funds, property tax credits, preferable tax treatment at harvest, and standing timber as a stable form of wealth, makes woodland management an attractive proposition for many landowners.

The total wage and salary and self-employed jobs in Pike County is 12,800, with major employers in inorganic chemical manufacturing, food services, state and local governments, and nursing and residential care facilities. The labor income in Pike County is $566,103,877, with the labor income in the Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, and Hunting industry being $4,780,200.

In conclusion, the management of woodlands in Pike County offers numerous benefits, not only for the environment but also for the local economy. With a variety of resources available, residents and landowners are encouraged to explore the options and make informed decisions about their woodlands.

1. The Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, and Hunting industry in Pike County contributes significantly to the local economy, with a value-added of $22,648,375 and the forest industries generating an impressive $56.4 million in industrial output and $3.21 million in taxes.
2. The importance of proper woodland management extends beyond forest health and wildlife habitat, as it plays a crucial role in the financial aspect of the industry. Managing timber requires less long-term inputs and offers benefits such as cost share funds, property tax credits, preferable tax treatment at harvest, and standing timber as a stable form of wealth.
3. To learn more about woodland management in Pike County specifically, residents and landowners can explore resources such as the Ohio State University Extension, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, local forestry consultants, timber companies, and the Pike County Soil and Water Conservation District.
4. Proper woodland management can also have positive effects on the local business and finance sector, as the growth and sustainability of forestry industries can help create jobs and increasethe labor income, as evidenced by the 12,800 total wage and salary and self-employed jobs in Pike County and the $4,780,200 labor income in the Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, and Hunting industry.

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