Caring for Your Land: Forest management plans and cost-share assistance (Coös)

Do you own forest land? Are you interested in learning more, developing a forest stewardship plan, and learning about cost-share opportunities that can help you meet your goals? Join us for this program offered by UNH Cooperative Extension and the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. 

If you own a piece of NH’s forest, you are a steward of our clean water, beautiful scenery, wildlife, fresh air, natural and cultural heritage, not to mention the basis for our forest industry and much of our recreation.  

Forests take a long time to grow, and thoughtful planning can help you get the most out of your land. Whether you are interested in improving wildlife habitat, growing good quality forest products, developing forest trails, or just keeping your forest healthy, thinking about your goals and learning about your land are the first steps to understanding your options and opportunities.   

Owning land gives many rewards and, as with most precious things, the more you pay attention and care for your land, the greater those rewards. We will talk about the steps involved in developing a stewardship or management plan for your property as well as financial and technical assistance available to help you. 

A forest management plan outlines your family’s vision for your forest, describes the current forest condition, and outlines a plan of action to achieve your management goals. A forest management plan is not just about the trees. It encompasses all the resources on your property – roads, water sources, wildlife habitat, recreational sites, and anything else that is relevant to your family and your goals. Cost-sharing is available to help you cover some of the costs associated with developing a management plan. 

The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has cost-share assistance available for woodland owners. The Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP) funds a variety of different conservation practices that can help you care for your land, such as developing a forest stewardship plan; practices to improve wildlife habitat; enhance tree diversity, health and quality; and improve water quality by stabilizing roads and trails.   

NRCS planners will talk about the cost-share practices and assistance available and will explain the sign-up process for the EQIP program.
 

Speakers: 

Ray Berthiaume, Coös County Forester with UNH Cooperative Extension 
Ashley Newell, Soil Conservationist with NRCS in Coös County