Some trees will be cut at Old Harbor Wildlife Refuge in hopes of improving the health of others, the Westport Land Conservation Trust (WLCT) says.

“Forests in Westport have had trouble with invasive insects like gypsy moth and winter moth in recent years, the WLCT said in a press release. “Forestry activity will begin at the Old Harbor Wildlife Refuge which will improve the health of the forest.”

The (WLCT) along with state licensed forester Rupert Grantham, will complete “a small select cut of the property. This active forestry will improve nutrient recycling and hardwood regeneration while protecting the conservation values of this special place.”

“It is undeniable that our forests have been undergoing some changes in

recent years,” said Brendan Buckless, outreach and stewardship coordinator

for the WLCT.

“The impacts of invasive species and climate change have been difficult for many of our older hardwood trees. This habitat improvement plan is necessary for improving wildlife habitat while also promoting old growth characteristics in a relatively young forest.”

WLCT asks hikers to be aware while this forest management activity is taking place. The activity will not impact road conditions along Old Harbor Road and will be completed before next summer.