Helping trees grow

The American Tree Farm System® is a nation wide community of nearly 60,000 landowners linked by a desire to manage their woodlands effectively. Effective management includes producing continuous crops of trees to supply our nation's wood products needs, and simultaneously maintaining the forest to be aesthetically pleasing and beneficial to wildlife.

Tree farmers play a critical role in our nation's economy. Fully 58 percent of all timber harvested in the United States comes from the non-industrial private woodlands, that is, land owned by individuals, not the government or timber companies. Tree Farms® play a valuable local role as well, providing wildlife habitat and watershed protection, and often offering recreational opportunities for members of the community.

Tree farmers generally own a minimum of 10 acres of forested land. To qualify, they must have their land inspected by one of the 10,000 foresters who donate time to the Tree Farm system. Lands are reinspected at lease every five years to assure that they are being properly managed.

The American Tree Farm System® is run on the state level by state Tree Farm committees. It is a program of the American Forest Foundation, administered by the American forest Council in Washington, D. C. Funding for the program comes from private donations and contributions from the forest products industry.

Your benefits

"I manage my woodlands for pride, profit, and pleasure," said one outstanding tree farmer. In varying combinations perhaps all tree farmers share those goals. The returns on your investment will not be measured in terms of dollars alone.

pride As a certified tree farmer you'll find great pride and satisfaction in protecting the forestry interests of your family and others. You'll improve you woodlands, and serve the needs of America as well. For your effort you'll receive a certificate identifying your woodlands as a Tree Farm. And with that comes a green and white Tree Farm sign that tells the public that you're a forest manager and concerned conservationist. You might even be recommended as tree farmer of the year and compete with other tree farmers at district, state, regional and national levels.

profit As a forest manager your woodlands will produce more timber than you might have though possible. And increased timber yields mean additional income for you. Income that will continue to grow and replenish with our forest. Also, in some states, certified tree farmers qualify for special real estate tax assessments that are lower than normal.

pleasure Tree farmers enjoy their forests. Many are personally involved with planting and tending. Others take their pleasure in the recreation and scenery, delegating the work to professionals. Either way you'll often look over your woodlands and smile at the beautiful forest that came from your wise management.

Getting started

Solid forest management begins with determining you objectives: determining what you have on you lands and developing a forest management plan. A professional forester can answer your questions.

A free inspection of your woodlands can be arranged by your local Forestry Division district office.

To qualify for Tree Farm certification your woodlands must be:

• One Ten acres or more.
• Two Managed for the production of timber and other forest products.
• Three Protected from fire, insects, disease, and destructive grazing.

Pioneer Tree Farm Program

If you're just discovering the benefits of forest management and haven't met the qualifications for full Tree Farm certification, you can be eligible as a Pioneer tree farmer. By developing written management recommendations and showing a desire to follow them, you'll be on the way toward full certification. To help you, you will receive The American Tree Farmer Magazine. It costs nothing to join and doesn't obligate you in any way, other than your own personal dedication to good forest management.