Texas A&M University Offers Forestland Owners Help in the Aftermath of Hurricane Laura

Although Hurricane Laura spared most of Texas from her damaging winds and flooding, some parts of Southeast Texas were not as fortunate. Following Hurricane Laura, Texas A&M Forest Service conducted a timber damage assessment based on National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) data. Approximately 210,000 acres in eastern Newton and Orange counties received timber, hardwood and softwood damage. An additional 850,000 acres across Hardin, Jasper, Newton and Sabine counties received light and scattered damage of softwood and hardwood timber. Though the overall impact to East Texas timber was fairly isolated, individuals who lost timber may have been significantly affected. Landowners can of course contact their own professional forester or arborist, to assist in estimating the damage and determining a deductible casualty loss. However, you may also request assistance from Texas A&M Forest Service. Jake Donellan, East Texas Operations department head for Texas A&M Forest Service said, “… after the storm, we can help you assess damage on your property, determine which trees can be saved, help you decide on salvage operations, debris removal and selling your timber. “Texas A&M Forest Service in East Texas has supported private landowners in good times and bad for more than 100 years,” said Donellan. “We’re here to serve before, during and after the storm.”