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 nonindustrial 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 forest 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 least 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.

Northwest Ohio Tree Farm
One of Ohio’s 2000 Tree Farms
Southeast Ohio Tree Farm

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

A tree inspection of your woodlands can be arranged by your state forest service, state forestry association or state Tree Farm committee. Also, your county agent can recommend a forester to inspect your property.

To qualify for Tree Farm certification your woodlands must be:

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