Woodswise Wire Plus - June 12, 2014

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Woodswise Wire Plus

Celebrating Maine’s State Tree: Eastern White Pine

Pine tree and pine cone

Eastern white pine has been an important tree to the people of Maine for hundreds, if not thousands, of years.  Therefore, it is no coincidence that Maine is known as the “Pine Tree State.” Recognizing its importance, in 1895 the Maine Legislature designated the “Pine Cone and Tassel” as Maine’s official floral emblem.  In 1945 the legislature resolved, “That the white pine tree be, and hereby is, designated the official tree of the State of Maine.”

The availability and high quality of white pine lumber has played an important part in the development and economy of Maine since 1605, when Captain George Weymouth of the British Royal Navy collected samples here and brought them back to England for display. The shortage of ship masts in Europe led to England’s Broad Arrow Policy in 1691 whereby pines 24 inches or more in diameter within 3 miles of water were blazed with the mark of the “broad arrow” and reserved for use in the Royal Navy. The term “King’s Arrow Pine” originated from this policy.

Economically and socially, Eastern White Pine is one of the state’s most important tree species.  Maine holds the distinction of being the number one producer of white pine lumber in the nation.  Production of sawlogs and lumber along with stumpage payments to Maine woodland owners contribute substantially to Maine’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Woodland management, timber harvesting, trucking and milling provide careers for foresters, truckers, loggers, mill workers, and others throughout Maine. 

White pine occurs in all localities in the state: in moist situations, on uplands and on sandy soil, but develops best on fertile, well-drained soils. The tree grows rapidly both in height and diameter, growing an average of 1 foot or more in height each year.

Good management practices can help to mitigate the many stresses that affect the health of white pine trees. Managing your woods for white pine can provide you and your family lifelong benefits; from excellent financial returns to providing wildlife habit and recreational opportunities. Find out more by checking out MFS Information Sheet #20: “Maine’s Celebrated White Pine” 

As always, you can call the Maine Forest Service for more information or assistance at 1 800 367-0223 (in state) or (207) 287-2791, or e-mail forestinfo@maine.gov