Our office has been getting calls all spring about increased property taxes on timber land in the county and ways to reduce that financial burden. Ensuring that the property has an up-to-date Forestry Management Plan (FMP) is one such method. If your taxes increased a lot this year, it might be time to start thinking about your management goals for your timber land and possibly obtaining an FMP.
In addition to potentially reducing taxes, an FMP from a certified forester will include information such as the species composition and condition of the trees in your woodlands, whether invasive species are present (and how to deal with them if they are), and the current and potential future marketability of the timber. Perhaps most importantly, an FMP provides you with guidelines to help you achieve goals for your woodland—whether that’s future timber harvest, improving wildlife habitat, or anything in between.
For more information about how to obtain an FMP and financial assistance that may be available, give us a call.