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Guide for Preparing and Completing a Timber Sale

By Steve Nix, About.com

6 of 7

Understood Timber Contracts Reduce Misunderstandings

Pole tree mark

Pole tree mark

Photo by Steve Nix, Licensed to About.com
After the potential timber sale has been shown and all bids are received, you should notify the highest acceptable bidder and arrange to execute a written timber contract. Any deposit or performance bond agreed upon should be collected. Copies of the contract should be prepared for both buyer and seller.

Learn How to Create a Timber Contract: The Timber Sale Contract

Regardless of the size of the timber sale, a written contract prevents misunderstanding and protects both the buyer and seller.

The contract should contain, at a minimum, the following:
...a description of the timber sale
...the selling price
...terms of payment
...which timber will and will not be cut
...time allowed to cut and remove timber
...adherence to all forestry Best Management Practices

Other special provisions may include: cutting extensions, the location of log landings, roads, and skid trails; conditions under which logging will not be permitted; protection of residual timber and other property; a procedure for settling disputes; responsibility for wildfire suppression; disposal of litter; subcontracting of parts of the work; erosion and water quality control measures; contractor liability exclusions.

Create a Timber Contract Using a Sample: A Sample Timber Contract

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