Hinge Cutting

Hinge Felling Techniques That Enhance Whitetail Habitat & Cover

A hinge cut is designed to bring the tree canopy nearer to the forest floor without killing the tree. If done properly by a hinge-felling professional, hinge cutting can be beneficial for Whitetail deer, rabbits, ground-nesting birds, and other game animals. How does hinge cutting work?

• Trees selected for hinge cutting are typically under 10-12 inches in diameter
• Instead of completely felling the tree, a cut is made about halfway through the trunk, leaving the back of the tree intact
• The uncut wood acts as a hinge, allowing the tree to fall while remaining connected to its root system, while providing dense, low-level screen cover
• The tree remains alive for several years, with foliage now available at a good level for deer to feed on
• The open overhead canopy also allows sunlight to hit the forest floor, allowing for habitat diversity and "edge" habitats
• Can also be used to create funnels that direct deer movement to desired areas

Are you ready to sculpt the perfect landscape for your Michigan property? Call Stafford Land Management today at 586-899-9795 to request a free quote for hinge cutting, spraying, and forestry mulching services.

Selective Tree Cutting Done by the Pros

Leaving your selective tree cutting and hinge felling to a local land management professional can make all the difference in achieving desired results for your Whitetail habitat improvement project. What do the pros offer when it comes to hinge cutting?

• Safety protocols and practices
• Expertise and technique
• Strategic design and long-term benefits
• Optimizing native species
• Time and efficiency
• Thorough knowledge of local plants and wildlife

Let us help you make the most of your property! Use our online form to schedule a consultation for hinge cutting, seed planting, and other habitat improvement services!