GOOD FOREST NEIGHBORS RECOGNIZED BY ODNR DIVISION OF FORESTRY

WEST PORTSMOUTH, OH - The ODNR Division of Forestry District 6 office recently recognized two neighbors of Shawnee and Brush Creek State Forests. Mike and Patty Sissel of Friendship, Ohio were recognized as Good Forest Neighbors of Shawnee State Forest. The Rarden Township Trustees were recognized as Good Forest Neighbors of Brush Creek State Forest.

Mike and Patty Sissel are long time Shawnee Forest neighbors. They have graciously provided space for the Division to park heavy equipment overnight in a secure place.

The Rarden Township Trustees now occupy the former Brush Creek State Forest headquarters. The arrangement provides them a nice facility from which to operate. It also allows for the upkeep of the buildings, which the Division can use to store equipment as well.

Each recipient received a plaque and a yard sign designating them as a Good Forest Neighbor. The plaques are made of oak and are in the shape of an oak tree, the most common tree species in the two State Forests. A plaque is also maintained in the District office with the names of all recipients.

In 2004, Ginny Frey was recognized as a Good Forest Neighbor of Brush Creek State Forest. Paul and Melanie Karr, and Jack and Rosie Keyser received the award for Shawnee State Forest in 2004.

For further information on the District’s Good Forest Neighbor Program, contact Ben Hamilton, District 6 Manager, at 740-858-6685

The ODNR Division of Forestry manages 20 state forests on more than 185,000 acres, spanning parts of 21 counties. Using Best Management Practices (BMPs), state foresters demonstrate proper timber management within these forests. Benefits of these properly-managed forests include timber, improved forest health, biodiversity, wildlife habitat, aesthetics and recreational opportunities.