How Herbicides Support Healthy Forests: The Truth Behind Galbraith Tree Farm’s Practices
At Galbraith Tree Farm (GTF), we understand that using herbicides in forestry can raise questions and concerns. That's why we want to share how herbicides are used responsibly in our operations to ensure healthy forests and environmental protection. Here, we explain the role of herbicides in forest management and address some common concerns raised by community members.
Why Are Herbicides Used in Forestry?
Forests are complex ecosystems where trees, plants, and wildlife coexist. However, when replanting young trees after a timber harvest, fast-growing brush and invasive plants can quickly take over, outcompeting the young seedlings for sunlight, water, and nutrients. Herbicides help us control these competing plants, giving the young trees the best chance to grow into healthy forests.
At GTF, herbicides are applied only once or twice during each 35-year plus tree growth cycle. This approach is quite different from food crop fields, which often require herbicide treatments one or more times every year. For us, herbicides are a short-term tool with long-term benefits, helping to ensure a new generation of forest stands without continual chemical use.
It's also important to note that these treatments are only applied to recently harvested areas in conjunction with replanting. On average, these treated areas total about 56 acres per year—less than 2.5% of the entire tree farm. This limited application ensures that the vast majority of the landscape remains undisturbed.
What Products Are Used?
We believe in transparency and want the community to know what chemicals are used on the land. At GTF, we use the following herbicides:
Glyphosate – A widely used herbicide that controls a broad spectrum of plants.
Oust XP – Used primarily for pre-emergent control of grasses and broadleaf weeds.
Imazapyr 4 SL – Effective for managing unwanted hardwood species.
Transline – Specifically targets certain broadleaf plants without harming grasses.
Methylated Seed Oil (MSO) – A surfactant that helps herbicides stick to plant surfaces and penetrate better, improving effectiveness.
These products are applied according to strict safety guidelines and regulations to protect the environment and human health.
How Are Herbicides Applied?
At GTF, we follow all state and federal regulations when applying herbicides. These guidelines, set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA), ensure that herbicides are used in ways that protect surrounding water, wildlife, and communities.
Here are some key points to consider:
Selective Use: Herbicides are applied only to specific areas where they are needed, targeting invasive plants while leaving most of the landscape untouched.
Buffer Zones: We maintain safe distances between treated areas and streams, rivers, and wetlands to ensure that water sources remain clean.
Trained Applicators: All herbicide applications are performed by certified professionals who follow strict guidelines to minimize environmental impact.
Additionally, aerial spraying requires a Forest Practices Application/Notification (FPA/N), reviewed by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to ensure compliance with environmental laws. This process includes setting buffer zones around sensitive areas and monitoring spray applications to prevent drift.
Addressing Concerns About Water and Wildlife
Some people are understandably concerned about herbicides' effects on water quality and wildlife. However, the herbicides we use are designed to break down quickly, reducing the risk of contamination. Regular monitoring by the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) also ensures that herbicide concentrations in streams remain well below harmful levels.
For example, GTF's herbicide applications follow strict rules regarding buffer zones around fish-bearing streams and wetlands, further protecting local ecosystems. These measures are critical to balancing managing the forest with protecting wildlife.
Looking at the Bigger Picture
Herbicide use at GTF is part of a broader effort to manage our forests responsibly. By controlling invasive plants and allowing young trees to thrive, we help ensure that future generations can enjoy healthy forests. Well-managed forests provide habitat for wildlife, contribute to the local economy, and help mitigate climate change by capturing carbon dioxide.
In addition, responsible herbicide use reduces the risk of wildfires by keeping flammable brush in check, protecting both the forest and surrounding communities from devastating fires.
We're Listening to Your Concerns
We recognize that herbicide use can be a sensitive topic, and we're committed to addressing the concerns of our community. We want to maintain an open dialogue and provide clear, accurate information about our practices. If you have further questions or would like to learn more about how herbicides are used at GTF, we're here to listen and provide answers.
Conclusion
Herbicides, when used responsibly and in compliance with strict regulations, play a vital role in maintaining forest health at Galbraith Tree Farm. Treating the land only once or twice in a 35-year-plus cycle and using carefully selected products ensures that the forest can regenerate, thrive, and continue providing benefits for future generations. We are committed to ongoing environmental stewardship and transparency, always working to balance forest productivity with protecting our natural resources.