PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
Contact:
Keith Thompson, Private Lands Program Manager
Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation | Agency of Natural Resources
Keith.Thompson@vermont.gov, 802-498-5169
Vermont Enhances Forestry Services with County Forester Update
Montpelier, VT— The Vermont Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation (FPR) is updating its County Forester service areas to better support landowners statewide. Effective November 12, 2024, County Forester responsibilities will be redistributed on a regional basis, no longer restricted by county boundaries. This change aims to provide more equitable access to forestry services.
County Foresters have long been key to providing forest management, stewardship guidance, technical assistance, and outreach to Vermont landowners, fostering lasting relationships. They offer expertise on topics ranging from forest management to wildlife habitat and outdoor recreation. County Foresters also administer the forestland category of Use Value Appraisal (Current Use) program, which enables eligible private landowners engaged in long-term forestry to have their land appraised based on its forestry value, rather than its fair market (development) value.
While foresters will retain their "County Forester" title, their service areas will be defined by geographically connected groups of towns. FPR has created a new forester coverage map and reference guide to help landowners identify which forester covers their area.
"County Foresters play a vital role in forest management and stewardship," says Oliver Pierson, Division of Forests Director. "They provide valuable guidance and technical assistance to landowners, support communities through expertise and outreach, and promote informed forest stewardship."
FPR is confident these updates will enhance their ability to provide consistent, high-quality support to all landowners, ensuring a more equitable distribution of forestry services across Vermont.
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