Forest stewardship is the responsible management of forest resources that meet the needs of the current owners, but that does not detract or degrade their use by future generations. Responsible forest managers are aware of opportunities and consequences of actions and are guided by objectives.

A forest stewardship plan can guide a property owner to meet long-term conservation objectives for forest land. This written document describes the forest resources present on the property, the landowner's management goals and objectives, and the recommended practices or activities to be carried out over time on the land. For further information, please see the University of Maryland Extension's Fact Sheet 625: Developing a Forest Stewardship Plan - The Key to Forest Management.

Property owners may also wish to develop a forest conservation easement.  The University of Maryland Cooperative Extension's publication, Working Forest Conservation Easements: A Primer for Forest Landowners, is an estate planning tool that helps private forest landowners to ensure that their forest stewardship efforts extend beyond their tenure. 

Consider taking your woodland status to the next level by becoming a Maryland Woodland Steward. After participating in a three-and-a-half-day in-depth workshop to learn about each of the topics discussed on this page, you can share your knowledge with others about Forest Stewardship.

Choose the topics below for more information.

Planning options

Enrollment in a forest management program is one way private forest owners in Maryland can reduce their property tax burden. Maryland’s Department of Assessments and Taxation offers two programs for this purpose, the Forest Conservation Management Agreement (FCMA) and the Forest Management Plan (FMP).

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Cost Share Assistance

There are a number of federal and state programs available that will help defray a significant portion of the cost to implement forest practices. This section provides an overview of the different types of cost-share programs available as well as how they are implemented.

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Taxes

Taxes are a real, but sometimes hidden cost to anyone who owns forest land. Forest landowners in Maryland can increase the financial return on their forest stewardship efforts by using existing laws and programs to minimize property, income, and estate taxes. The following information highlights some of those laws and programs. Forest landowners are encouraged to investigate these and other tax and estate planning considerations.

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Harvesting

The harvest of timber is something that most landowners only do once or twice in a lifetime. Whether or not the experience is a positive one will depend upon whether or not you use professional forestry assistance.

Maryland "Call Before You Cut" program

Questions about harvesting?    Ready to harvest?

Educational Opportunities

The Woodland Stewardship Education program offers a variety of online programs, in-person workshops, and webinars related to stewardship planning. Learn from University of Maryland Extension staff, from extension partners across the mid-Atlantic region, and from experts in the field from a variety of occupations.

Online courses

Webinars & videos

Wildlife and your Woodland

Woodland property owners can manage their natural areas to provide or enhance habitat features to benefit wildlife. These habitats can be developed or maintained to attract particular species, based on specific needs of space, water, food, and cover. The Woodland Stewardship Education program has a wide variety of resources that will help you reach your wildlife habitat goals.

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Legacy and Estate Planning

Thinking about the future involves more than just saving for education or retirement. This is particularly important if you own land that you want protected after you're gone. Prepare for future preservation through estate planning and how to communicate your vision to your family.

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