Dunbar Forest Resources & Facilities
The Dunbar Forest is divided into two broad areas:
1) The Mainland Units (about 2,600 acres)
| Soil Types Fine sands (66%) Sandy loams Clay loams Organic mucks - - |
Forest Types Aspen (22%) Lowland hardwoods (10%) Upland hardwoods (7%) Lowland conifers (13%) Plantations & open areas (9%) Alder brush (34%) |
2) The Neebish Island Units (about 2,800 acres)
| Soil Types Loams (56%) Fine sands (44%) - |
Forest Types Upland hardwoods (25%) Aspen (63%) Lowland & open (12%) |
Research plots have been established and maintained at Dunbar Forest for more than 70 years. This continuity offers a unique database and is a resource from which new research can arise. A program of pruning and thinning in conifer plantations was recently begun to ensure healthy and vigorous stands for the next 20 years.
Physical Plant
The physical plant of Dunbar Forest is made up of several buildings including:
- A lodging facility that can house up to six people.
- An old barn (now empty).
- A pole barn with heated storage and work rooms.
- Two single-family residences.
Arrangements to use Dunbar Forest must be made well in advance using the reservation form (on the UPTIC web site) or by contacting the Escanaba office of the Upper Peninsula Tree Improvement Center.
