Tulsa World: Control of Eastern red cedar in Oklahoma urged

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Control of Eastern red cedar in Oklahoma urged

By Associated Press
Published: 10/27/2009 12:27 PM
Last Modified: 10/27/2009 12:27 PM

OKLAHOMA CITY — Conservationists and fire-control experts are urging state lawmakers to focus more resources on controlling the spread of Eastern red cedar trees to better control wildfires.

Members of the House Agriculture and Rural Development Committee met Tuesday to learn more about red cedar trees, which are a major source of fuel for wildfires.

Rep. Richard Morrissette of Oklahoma City says cedar trees contributed heavily to wildfires in April in Midwest City and elsewhere that destroyed more than 100 structures. Damage was estimated at $30 million.

Oklahoma Conservation Commission director Mike Thralls says the infestation of red cedar trees involves about 10 million of Oklahoma's 44 million acres.

John Weir of the Oklahoma Prescribed Fire Council says controlled burns are the best way to control their spread. By Associated Press

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oldrustytulsa, Tulsa (10/27/2009 5:09:44 PM)

Just study what Red Cedar would be good for,making Porch Swings, Fire starter sticks, decking, flooring? Create a market and make a killing.

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FUTURE WORLD, Tulsa (10/27/2009 11:36:37 PM)

True oldrustytulsa, another consideration is to educate the public to only plant native Oklahoma trees. People buy trees because they look oh so pretty in the fall. Or they offer wonderful shade in the summer. Giving no consideration what so ever to the environmental impact planting non native species does to our environment. Much less the cost of abating the disastrous impact these non native species have on our budget and environment.

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