Vermont timber management Learn about how good stewardship can protect the health of our forest ecosystem, support wildlife habitats, and encourage sustainable forestry on both private and public lands.



Vermont timber managementis a critical part of Vermont's large wooded landscape, and it is best to the ecological and economic vitality of the environment. More than three-fourths of the state is forested, and the forests are a renewable resource that must be managed responsibly through sound science.



Vermont timber managers try to harvest enough wood for the economy, while protecting biodiversity, water quality, and wildlife habitat. Foresters cut less desirable or overgrown forest by selectively removing trees to promote more desirable, healthier growth, helping to mimic natural openings or disturbances. This technique helps maintain biodiversity and more sustainably provide timber for local industry.



Necessary "long-term plans to defend against climate change and invasive species." Landowner incentives property tax incentives for sustainable land use and management practices motivate landowners to keep their forest land intact instead of dividing it up for development. And with a rigorous regulatory setup and ongoing accountability, Vermont timber management ensures that our forests flourish well into the future.