Basic Services Provided by an ACF Consulting Forester:
Forest Management Planning
– The best way for landowners to
accomplish their objectives (whether their primary focus is timber production, wildlife habitat improvement, recreation or
a combination of several goals) is to work with an ACF forester in developing and implementing a forest management plan.
Timber Sale
– An ACF forester is a landowner's advocate in
timber sale transactions. Depending on the type of timber a landowner is selling, the forester will advise on how to proceed
and what type of sale the landowner should consider -- a sealed bid process or a negotiated sale. Prior to a sale, the
forester will usually inventory and appraise the timber. Foresters can then make recommendations regarding the timing of
timber sales and expose the timber to potential buyers over the entire market area. Because timing is so important,
landowners should establish a relationship with an ACF forester well before they anticipate selling their timber so that they
can take advantage of market variations. The ACF forester also will work with the landowner's attorney to ensure that the
timber deed or timber cutting agreement includes terms protecting the landowner's interests and will monitor harvest
operations to ensure contract compliance.
Timber Inventory and Appraisal
– A timber inventory and appraisal may be
appropriate even if no timber sale is anticipated to establish the cost basis for timber or to assist with valuation of timberland
for purchase or sale. The inventory consists of a statistical sampling of timber while the appraisal assigns an appropriate value
to volumes found in the inventory. An appraisal may also include a valuation of pre-merchantable plantations or growing stock, and
provide information on relative soil productivity for landowners who are buying or selling timberland, subdividing timberlands for
an estate or donating conservation easements. Top of Page
Timber Taxation
– Landowners may need to calculate their cost basis in the
timber they have sold or are about to sell to minimize the taxable portion of the timber sale's revenue. An ACF forester can assist with
this process.
Reforestation
– An ACF forester can help select the appropriate species
and seedling source for reforestation, the spacing of trees and the type of site preparation that will provide the best conditions for
growth and survival of the new plantings. The forester also can help find cost-share opportunities to defray the cost of reforestation,
find contractors to do the work, negotiate contracts for services and oversee the work.
Intermediate Stand Management
– An ACF forester can advise landowners
regarding the timing and extent of thinnings, prescribed burning, competition control and fertilization. Depending on the landowner's
objectives, the forest management plan can incorporate wildlife habitat enhancement for targeted species into this process.
Top of Page
Timber Theft Appraisal (Timber Trespass)
– If you are buying or selling
timberland, subdividing timberlands for an estate, or donating conservation easements, an ACF forester can assist you with valuations of timber,
pre-merchantable plantations, or relative soil productivity.
Arbitration
– ACF foresters may be able to act as arbiters in conflicts
between landowners or between a landowner and a wood buyer.
Conservation Easements
– If landowners are donating or selling conservation
easements, an ACF forester can assist in writing or negotiating the provisions of the easement. Foresters have a unique long-term
perspective, are knowledgeable about forest health issues and make important contributions to the language of the easement, whether it is
a working forest easement or a more restrictive easement. Top of Page
