Compliance Analysis of Forestry Best Management Practices in West Virginia
Authors
Jingxin Wang
West Virginia University, Division of Forestry and Natural Resources,
Morgantown, WV 26506-6125
William Goff
West Virginia University, Division of Forestry and Natural Resources,
Morgantown, WV 26506-6125
Ben Spong
West Virginia University, Division of Forestry and Natural Resources,
Morgantown, WV 26506-6125
Abstract
A total of 29 forestry best management practices (BMPs) were measured on 116 randomly selected sites harvested between November 2003 and March 2004 in West Virginia using four checklists on haul roads, skid trails, landings, and in streamside management zones (SMZs). Landowners were contacted to gain permission for site visits according to the random list. Data collected were analyzed statistically to examine the significant differences of BMP compliance rates among forester involvement, ownership, harvest method, and forest district. Results indicate that BMP compliance was generally better when a forester was involved with the harvest or on industry lands. Forester involvement, ownership, and harvest method did not significantly affect most of BMP compliance rates. BMP compliance on skid trails, at landings, and overall compliance by site differed significantly among six forest districts in West Virginia.
