Holmboe Conifer Forest. Image courtesy: WXPR
RHINELANDER, WI (WSAU-WXPR) – The Holmboe Conifer Forest State Natural Area was inducted Thursday into the Old-Growth Forest Network.
The Holmboe Forest is about 32 acres next to the Pelican River in Rhinelander. It’s home to mature stands of hemlock, pine and white cedar.
Its induction into the Old-Growth Forest Network is part of an effort to identify and protect thousands of old growth forests throughout the country. Nick Sanchez is the network’s Midwest regional manager. “So we’re working with volunteers, land trusts, and the forest service to identify these places, make sure they’re protected, and then get people out to them to see them and experience old-growth.”
The Old-Growth Forest Network currently works in 32 states and has registered 177 old-growth forests. Its goal is to find one in every county of the country. Ted Anchor, who helps manage the Holmboe Forest with the Northwoods Land Trust, says becoming part of the network is beneficial. “As we know, if people don’t value a place, it doesn’t get conserved. By having it included in the network, it makes people aware that it’s here and that’s just as important as anything else. If people respect and value a place, they will preserve it.”
Anchor says the Holmboe Forest also recently received a grant. That’s been used to improve the trail and replace boardwalks.
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