The Forest Management Plan - Develop a Master Plan

Use the inventory to plan activities that will accomplish your objectives. The order and year in which you list the activities will depend on your objectives, time, and money. Don’t try to do everything at once. Think long term and your plan should be flexible. Review it periodically to be sure it still meets your objectives and that you have the time and money to implement it.

There are places to go where you can get help with your master plan. A county soil survey contains a soil map along with information on soil use and management for trees, wildlife, and trail building. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Soil and Water Conservation District and Cooperative Extension Service offices are places to find these soil surveys. Average annual precipitation amounts and plant hardiness zone maps are also available at these offices.

There are opportunities to get personal assistance. Many states have Master Forest Owner programs that are similar to Master Gardener programs. Woodland owners receive training on caring for trees and woods and then volunteer their time to help other landowners. Contact your local Cooperative Extension Service office to see if there is a Master Forest Owner program in your area.

Don't forget the consulting forester, landscape architect, or arborist who you can hire. Try to find someone who can tell you about the soil, historical land use, the health and economic value of your trees and the resident wildlife.