Frequently Asked Questions

What is a forest management plan?

Management plans describe the conditions of the tract: species, size, volume, and quality of the standing timber.  Management plans list a recommended sequence of operations to achieve landowner goals and objectives. 

How are forest management plans developed?

Foresters locate and delineate the boundaries of the tract and conduct a timber inventory to estimate the stocking and timber volume of the tract. The volumes are combined with stand and tract maps and used for making recommendations based on the landowner's objectives.

What is a timber valuation/timber appraisal?

Timber valuations use the same data gathered during the timber inventory. Market prices are applied to the timber volumes to generate a total value for the standing timber.

Do I need a forest management plan and/or a timber valuation to sell my timber?

While a plan and valuation are not required, they are highly recommended. Having a plan ensures that the goals and objectives of the landowner are written down and understood by all parties. A valuation informs the landowner of the value of their timber so they can get a fair price for their timber.

Why do I need a forester?

Consulting foresters help landowners plan and manage their timber. Consulting foresters can help develop management plans, sell timber, show you how to grow better trees, mark boundaries, and help make informed management decisions. Consulting foresters will help you get the most value out of your timber.

What is involved in a timber sale?

• 1. Meet with the landowner to determine their harvest goals and objectives.

  2. Assess the property to ensure that the landowners harvest goals are achievable and perform timber inventory.

  3. Mark the stand or property boundaries as applicable.

  4. Mark the timber for removal if necessary.

  5. Provide the landowner with adequate market information to help make a sound decision whether or not to sell their timber.

  6. Represent the landowner by receiving bids and negotiating the sale to best meet the landowners objectives.

  7. File necessary county permits for harvesting.

  8. Provide harvesting contracts and timber deeds to ensure proper harvesting and to protect the landowners from liability during the harvest.

  9. Administer the signing of the contracts or deeds.

  10. Oversee the harvesting operation to ensure that the agreed upon harvesting guidelines are followed.

How is a sealed bid sale different from a negotiated sale?

Negotiated sales are very similar to sealed bid sales with the exception that the forester will personally contact prospective buyers and negotiate prices to get the best price.

How is a consulting forester different from other types of foresters?

Consulting foresters are paid by the landowner to take care of their forest and surrounding resources. They act in a landowner's best interest and have the same expertise as other foresters but their sole responsibility is to represent the landowner and to manage the forest to meet the landowner's objectives.