Harvesting Your Forest

Few people own woodlands because they want to cut trees. Timber harvesting, however, is one of the most important tools available to shape a woodland. Timber is cut to provide habitat needed for wildlife, to control disease problems, to open up vistas, to make recreational trails, to renew vigorous growth, and many other reasons including income. Landowners have a personal responsibility to protect themselves in any business dealings, and selling timber is no exception. Plan your harvest well, and get professional help!

Both state and private groups are working to improve timber harvests. A fact sheet, "Cutting Standing Timber" is available from the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP). You can also check with DATCP at 1-800-422-7128 to see if complaints have been filed about a logger. The DNR is working with state legislators on a proposal to strengthen timber theft and timber trespass laws. The timber industry is also trying to weed poor quality loggers on its own.

• Steps in a timber harvest
• Responsibilities of landowners
• The Value of Standing Timber