Forestland conversion has always been and will continue to be a hot topic. However, several factors are coming together that, in concert with landowners' desire to leave a legacy, might tip the balance in favor of not only maintaining forest cover, but promote active forest management. These factors are (1) value for previously no- or low-value trees, (2) green certified forest products, and (3) value for ecosystem services, such as carbon markets. But, first, all three factors must be woven into the tapestry of a management plan. Wood energy markets will help provide the incentive for harvesters to extract this material from unthinned, neglected forests. With a management plan in place and a thinned woodland, the landowner can lay claim to a working forest that is sustainable. This in turn can translate into marketing carbon offsets on an annual basis, and generating higher revenue from commercial thinnings and final harvests by selling green certified wood products. All of these activities take place in the larger context leaving a legacy of sound land stewardship for future generations. The bottom line is that natural resource professionals need to help forest landowners see 'the business side' of establishing their legacy. It can truly be a win-win scenario.
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Is it wise for forest landowners to sell off all of their timber and biomass to developers.
Last Updated: December 07, 2009
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