Forest Management Planning
Start Your Plan Today
A Forest Management Plan is the first step toward achieving your long-term forest management goals. Think of it as an instruction manual, guiding landowners, foresters, and timber industry professionals in implementing sustainable forestry practices such as timber harvesting, tree planting, and habitat restoration.
At Stevens Forestry, LLC, we tailor each plan to align with your objectives, whether that’s sustainable timber production, wildlife conservation, recreation, or tax benefits. Our approach ensures compliance with key programs like the Michigan Qualified Forest Program (QFP) and, for those seeking enhanced sustainability and certification, the Forest Stewardship Program (FSP) and American Tree Farm System (ATFS).
Our Options for Forest Management Planning
Core Forest Management Plan
A streamlined plan designed to meet the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s (MDARD) QFP requirements. This option provides essential guidance for forest sustainability and tax benefit eligibility.
Standardized Forest Inventory: Conducted with a scientifically rigorous sampling method to assess tree species, volume, and site conditions.
Compliance with QFP Regulations: Ensures landowners meet program requirements for reduced property taxes and long-term forest management.
Application Assistance: All necessary documentation for QFP enrollment is included.
Enhanced Forest Management Plan
An expanded, comprehensive plan for landowners who want to integrate their forest into broader sustainability initiatives and certification programs such as FSP and ATFS. This option adds valuable layers of detail, ensuring compatibility with multiple programs.
Advanced Data Collection and Analysis: A more detailed field inventory, capturing additional ecological features for conservation planning.
Multi-Program Eligibility: Tailored for landowners who seek QFP tax benefits while aligning with FSP and ATFS requirements.
Long-Term Timber and Habitat Planning: Strategic recommendations for sustainable harvest cycles, wildlife habitat improvement, and conservation practices.
The Enhanced Plan is ideal for landowners seeking a premium level of detail, additional program eligibility, or those interested in forest certification for potential timber market advantages.
How It Works
Define Your Goals: We work with you to clarify your objectives, whether it’s timber production, wildlife conservation, recreation, or maximizing tax benefits.
Field Inventory and Data Collection: Using a precise randomized sampling method, we gather key forest metrics to inform sustainable management strategies.
Geospatial Mapping and Analysis: Using GIS technology, we create property maps detailing topography, soil types, and land cover.
Plan Development and Program Integration: Your plan is crafted to align with applicable financial assistance and certification programs.
Financial Assistance Programs
Many landowners use forest management planning as a gateway to financial assistance programs that provide tax incentives and funding for conservation practices. The most commonly utilized programs in Michigan include:
Michigan Qualified Forest Program
Reduces property taxes for enrolled landowners
Allows for sustainable timber harvesting while maintaining tax benefits
Offers a taxable value cap upon property transfer
NRCS Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP)
Provides financial assistance for conservation practices
Covers the cost of developing a Forest Management Plan for approved applicants
Offers technical support for implementing conservation measures
For landowners focused on sustainable forestry and conservation, Stevens Forestry, LLC provides the expertise to navigate these programs and optimize your benefits.
Forest Certification Programs
For those aiming to enhance sustainability efforts and access premium timber markets, certification programs like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI), and American Tree Farm System provide additional opportunities.
Why Consider Certification?
Increases marketability of harvested timber
Ensures sustainable forestry practices
Supports biodiversity and conservation goals
If certification aligns with your goals, we can tailor your Forest Management Plan to meet these rigorous standards.
Take the Next Step
Ready to explore your options? Contact us today to discuss how Stevens Forestry, LLC can help you develop a customized Forest Management Plan that aligns with your property’s needs and long-term vision.