The Vermont Agency of Natural Resources Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation (FPR) announced recently that Hicks Logging, LLC, a business that performs logging activities in Vermont, was fined $6,000 for failing to file advanced notice of its intent and to obtain a permit to conduct a heavy cut on property located in the Northeast Kingdom town of Concord.
A heavy cut is defined as a harvest leaving a residual stand of healthy trees below the recommended density as defined by the USDA Forest Service silvicultural guides for similar stands. The goal of the Heavy Cut Law is to limit extensive harvesting on large areas of 40 acres or more and to ensure that any such harvesting is guided by an approved forest management plan. Prior to conducting a heavy cut, a Notice of Intent to Cut must be filed and authorization secured from FPR. Any permit issued must include an approved silvicultural plan for the harvest.
In December 2022, FPR staff conducted an inspection of the 52.7-acre property in Concord in response to a complaint of a heavy cut violation. After inventorying the residual stand, FPR determined that the company performed a heavy cut on 45.6 acres without providing FPR with advanced notice of its intent or securing a permit with an approved plan for the cut.
“Heavy cutting without a silvicultural plan can harm forest health and productivity,” said Danielle Fitzko, Commissioner of FPR. “This, in turn, affects wildlife, soils, water quality, and the forest economy.”
Hicks Logging LLC agreed to a fine of $6,000 for the violation. The agreement was incorporated into a Final Judicial Order of the Vermont Superior Court, Environmental Division on January 8, 2025.