Landowners may learn about the biological, financial, and legal aspects of their woodlots from forester-prepared plans that schedule management activities in a way that best meet the landowner's goals.

Do I need a written plan to manage my woodlot?
Except in a few cases, no. However, you may be able to make more reasoned decisions after reviewing a natural resource inventory and studying the income, expenses, and outcomes of expected activities. Lands enrolled in Maine's Tree Growth Tax Law, the American Tree Farm system, and/or Two Tree Forestry's pool of FSC certified landowners do require current plans.

Does planning require a timber inventory?
Generally, no. However, measured inventories can be used to quantify the species composition and size distribution of the woodlot's trees, predict forest growth, and document a means to minimize timber-income taxes.

How much do plans cost?
Forest management plans range in price due to parcel size and the level of detail requested. Some landowners receive a 75% reimbursement of costs for plans that meet specifications of the Maine Forest Service's WoodsWISE program. Additional $200 tax credits are also allowed for Maine income tax payers.

Sample plans
Follow these links to download plans that meet specifications for: