In a recent government meeting, officials discussed plans for timber harvesting on approximately 34 acres of property, with an estimated 15 acres deemed marketable. The strategy involves a lump sum bidding process, similar to a successful initiative in Brunswick County, to determine the fair market value of the timber.

The meeting highlighted the importance of careful planning due to the property's challenging topography, which includes sensitive slopes and wetlands. Officials noted that while forestry regulations permit logging within 50 feet of streams, the unique landscape poses risks for erosion if not managed properly. To mitigate these concerns, a draft forestry management plan was presented, emphasizing the need to protect environmentally sensitive areas during the logging process.

The board considered two options: conducting a full timber cruise to assess the timber's value or inviting forestry expert John Reid to evaluate the bids received. The latter option was favored for its lower upfront costs. The plan includes marking boundaries and buffers to ensure that logging activities do not adversely affect the surrounding environment.

Officials expressed confidence in the quality of the timber available, including notable species such as red oaks, and outlined a strategy for inviting licensed loggers to bid on the project. The meeting concluded with a commitment to transparency, as loggers will be required to notify officials before accessing the property for inspections.