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Erie County Forest Management Plan

Emery Falls

The Erie County Forest Management Plan has been constructed around three basic principles. The first principle is that any data collection or inventory planning adhere to the highest standards. The second is that the recommendations resulting from the analysis be based on sound biological, ecological, economical, recreational and educational considerations. And lastly, that relationships formed throughout the planning process will enhance and strengthen the benefits to residents and taxpayers in Erie County.

Read the Erie County Forest Management Plan

Erie County Forest Management Plan Update

Erie County's Bureau of Forestry was created in 1927. The County has developed several conservation and management plans over the years for its forests. The County currently owns 12 Forest Lots, totaling 2,923 acres. The Lots are located in the Towns of Concord, Holland, and Sardinia.

The purpose of this project is to update the 2003 Forest Management Plan, with considerations for the 2019 Parks Master Plan. The development of the plan update will include public and stakeholder engagement; Forest Lot stand delineations and diagnosis; ecological assessments; asset inventory; trails and recreation mapping and recommendations; silviculture prescriptions; and best management practices, recommendations, and implementation plan.

 

Join us at a public meeting! October 21st at 6pm at the Chestnut Ridge Park Casino.

Erie County is nearing the end of the planning process to update the Forest Management Plan and is seeking your feedback! Please join us Tuesday, October 21, 2025 from 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm at the Chestnut Ridge Casino Meeting Room (6121 Chestnut Ridge Road, Orchard Park, NY) for a public workshop to discuss the draft Plan. The intent of the workshop is to receive feedback, educate and inform regarding various forest management practices being proposed, and obtain input.
 
Please come learn more about the history and current status of the Erie County Forest Lots, share insight and knowledge, and engage with the planning team. The draft Plan will be available for public review until November 3rd.

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