A Trustworthy Resource for Landowners
Just because you own forestland doesn’t mean you’re thinking about harvesting timber. Yet, individuals may approach you and inquire about conducting a timber sale. A recent survey* shows that only nine percent of woodland owners own land for the purpose of harvesting timber, but half of all woodland owners conduct a timber harvest, even though they thought they never would.
*Butler, B.J., and E.C. Leatherberry. 2004. America's Family Forest Owners. Journal of Forestry 102(7):4-9.
Before you make any decisions regarding your land, get the information you need to make an informed decision—contact a Certified Forester. The Certified Forester program ensures that professionals:
- Meet the profession's educational requirements
- Have at least five years of professional forestry experience
- Adhere to standards of professional practice
- Pass a rigorous competency exam that measures knowledge and skills
- Participate in continuing education
A Certified Forester will be your advocate as you evaluate the options for your forest, helping you:
- Define your goals and objectives and develop a plan to meet them
- Adhere to regulatory requirements
- Identify government financial incentive programs and eligibility
- Provide management alternatives and time frames
- Attract diverse and abundant wildlife
- Improve water quality
- Assess the value of your forest
- Be aware of tax liabilities and deduction opportunities
- Reduce the risk of wildfire
- Prevent or control harmful insects and diseases
- Potentially save or make money