I wanted to follow up on my entry where I mentioned meeting with fellow Fairviewians regarding the quality of local forest management.  Our discussion focused on 25 to 100 acre parcels located in the greater Fairview area that either have working forest plans or those that would qualify to have one. 

What is the best way to educate land owners about the importance of containing exotic, invasive species, maintaining healthy stands and getting the most value out of their trees?  Not only is education necessary, but so is a viable infrastructure of foresters, graders, loggers and end-users for the materials.  There is a growing need for a cooperative of business to help land owners manage their forestry plans, maintain the value of their forests, and to connect them with businesses that can use their trees (that’s where I come in).  

Think of it like this:  You are a land owner and have neglected the upkeep of your 40 acres and now you don’t know where to start.  What should stay, what should go, how to harvest, etc.  So you contact a list of foresters that can consult with you about the best use and how to implement it.  If you need better roads/trails for access, they put you in touch with graders or trail builders.  Need invasive species removed? Here’s how it’s done or who can help.  What trees should stay and which should be removed to make room for the good ones?  And who can help remove them in a cost effective manner without clear cutting or taking the trees that I want. And lastly, who will buy these materials at fair market value to help offset my management plan?

We think it can work, but it will take time and a commitment from many people.