Woodland Management Case Studies

Photo: M. Dunn

Building a Case for Sustainable Management of Private Woodlands

The Huron Stewardship Council was one of several partner organizations that helped to compile a report focused on local sustainable forest management. Eight landowners were interviewed to gather their financial and forest information and to summarize the history of activities on their properties. The results showed that sound management of woodlots provided returns that are complimentary and favourable in comparison with agricultural returns.

What factors motivate private woodland owners to manage their woodlots sustainably?

For some it is personal interest or stewardship ethic, while others may be more influenced by potential for economic returns. The case studies have been undertaken, in part, to investigate if economic returns from woodlots can compare favourably with those from agriculture. Returns from these managed forests (mostly from timber sales but possibly including other activities such as production of maple syrup) have been compared to the income from agricultural crops on comparable land over the same period. It is hoped these case studies will provide added incentive for woodlot owners to manage their woodlots responsibly, either by demonstrating the potential for enhanced long-term financial returns or through the example of responsible stewardship provided by the woodland owners profiled in the case studies.

Want to learn more? Contact Terry Schwan, Forester:

schwell1@rogers.com

Photo: R. White

Partners

  • Huron Stewardship Council
  • George Morris Centre
  • Huron Perth Chapter – Ontario Woodlot Association
  • Keith Roulston
  • Maitland Watershed Partnerships Initiative
  • Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources – Guelph District
  • Ontario Stewardship Opportunity Fund
  • Ontario Forestry Association
  • Dave Pridham, Victoria Land and Water Stewardship Council
  • Participating Landowners
Photo: M. Dunn