Tree Farming Facts

Background

• Just as farmers grow crops for market, so do tree farmers nurture trees. Organized in 1941, the American Tree Farm System's first goal was to slow the rate at which America's forests were being depleted. Today, landowners are able to benefit from services offered by the AFTS, including educational programs that lead them to a greater understanding of woodland ecology, assistance with managing their forested lands, and the opportunity to gain first-hand knowledge of sustainable management. As a gauge of their dedication, nearly 60,000 landowners are linked by their common goal of more responsible woodland management as of 2010.

Recognition

• A tree farmer who is ready to commit to the program and who has agreed to follow a comprehensive management plan then qualifies to have his woodlands inspected. Once approved, the AFTS grants the woodland official status as a designated tree farm. This certification is documented proof of the landowner's commitment to protecting the woodland under his care.

Benefits of Stewardship

• Forested land owners benefit from this system in several ways, including free consultations both at the initial inspection and at every future inspection and being part of a group of professionals and other tree farmers who share the goal of sustainable forestry. Tree farmers can attend workshops, seminars and other events geared toward helping them achieve their goals. Registered tree farmers have also earned the right to display the tree farm sign on their properties.

Program Requirements

• To be considered for the program, a prospective tree farmer must have at least 10 undivided acres of forested land, be committed to the program's philosophy of sustainable management, and be willing to produce a written plan that addresses not only the goals but also a desire to preserve the land for years to come. The land must be designated for lumber production as well as other woodland products, and it must be safe from disease, insect destruction, fire and excessive grazing.

Inspections

• The state forest service or forestry association, as well as local county agents or representatives from a state's tree farm committee are all authorized to inspect a participant's land and provide a determination of eligibility. If an applicant doesn't currently meet all the requirements, he may still qualify as a pioneer tree farmer by demonstrating a sincere desire to work toward sustainable forested land management that will eventually earn him full certification.

Contact Information

• Call the American Tree Farm System (ATFS) at 202-463-2462 or email at [email protected] for more information.