OutdoorMN News - Funds available to improve family forests

[Rick]

The Department of Natural Resources has over $500,000 available for cost-share practices to improve family-owned woodlands in Minnesota. The money will be available through June 30, or until it runs out. 

Family forests make up 40 percent of the forests in the state. They help maintain the environmental and economic health of the state. Private forests provide clean air and water, wildlife habitat and forest products, and are a great renewable resource.

“This is a great opportunity to help private landowners practice good forest stewardship on their land,” said John Carlson, DNR private forest management coordinator.

Landowners work with a professional forester to develop a project plan to meet specific goals such as improving the forest, enhancing wildlife habitat and creating recreational opportunities. Work is completed by the landowner or a contractor. After work is completed and approved, landowners receive payment from the DNR based on the type of work done.

Examples of some eligible projects include:

• Planting trees for wildlife habitat or timber production.
• Protecting seedling by installing tree tubes and applying bud caps.
• Controlling oak wilt, buckthorn and other invasive species.
• Thinning stands to improve growing conditions.
• Controlling soil erosion to improve water quality and aquatic habitat.

The maximum cost share for each landowner is $10,000 per year.

Cost-share funds can also be used to work with a DNR-approved plan writer to develop a woodland stewardship plan, designed to meet landowner goals while maintaining a sustainable forest. Stewardship plans are developed for woodlands with 20 or more acres.

For more information, visit the woodlands cost share page  or contact a local DNR Forestry Office.

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