the soviet partisan movement 1941-1944 by edgar m. howell

THE OCCUPATION FALTERS 115
tected by the security commands and tracts in close proximity to military
strong points could be cut. Sawmills were raided regularly and many
were destroyed, while log floating was brought almost to a standstill. 73
By hiring additional experts and importing sawmill machinery, the lumber
output was stepped up despite the partisans. Still, because of their
pressure, only 58 percent of the potential output of all the mills in
operation could be exploited. 74
The peat industry was also hard hit. The significance of maintaining
an adequate supply of peat lay in its connection with electric power
and its importance as the primary source of domestic heat for the population.
Behind Army Group Center, due to the absence of rapids in the
rivers, there were no hydroelectric plants, nor was there any adequate
source of coal. Peat was the only fuel available in large quantities for
the generation of electricity and any interruption in its production curtailed
the power needed for military installations and did much to lower
popular morale in the urban areas in much the same way as the food
shortage. During 1941 sufficiently large stocks were left over from the
previous year to satisfy demands. In 1942, however, some 30,000
workers cut only half that needed, due in large part to the physical and
mental threat posed by the partisans. 75 Actual production totaled only
50 percent of a potential of some 850,000 tons. 76
73 Monatsberichte, 1 .X.42.-28.II.43, Wi-Stab Ost. Wi/ID 2.336.
74
“Report of the Effects of the Partisan Situation," 30 Jun 43. Wi/ID 2.53.
75
Monatsberichte, Wi-Stab Ost, Juni-Okf 42. Wi/ID 2.346; "Report on the
Effects of the Partisan Situation," 30 Jun 43. Wi/ID 2.53.
76
Anl. 5, to "Report on the Effects of the Partisan Situation," 30 Jun 43. Wi/ID 2.53.