Tree Farmer - Winter 2012 - (Page 4)

Directions lenges before us in ensuring that the array of forest values we enjoy today will continue for the next generation. We are still not reaching enough family forest owners to make the kind of impact I know we can have on improving forest health by addressing the threats to our forests. I also know there is a fundamental and profound connection between forest health and our nation’s economic health. For example, there are many opportunities to improve the economic base for rural communities, increase certified forests in key areas, engage the next generation of Tree Farmers, connect with more woodland owners, and help solve forest conservation challenges that require their involvement and stewardship commitment. This is the future I hope we can create together. To do that, we need to reach beyond our core circle and involve more woodland owners who aren’t part of the American Tree Farm System. Perhaps some will see the value in becoming certified; others may not. Whatever their perspectives, we need to have a bigger tent, and engage more woodland owners in sustainable forestry. Our commitment to Tree Farmers is to ensure you receive the tools and on-the-ground services you need to protect your forest legacy. Among the many tools we provide are publications for you, our State Tree Farm Committees, and our volunteer inspectors. We’ve asked a lot of questions about these tools during the last year, and thousands of Tree Farmers responded. What we’ve heard is that there is a greater interest in a different kind of magazine—one that’s more general interest, with a variety of articles about a wide array of topics that woodland owners are interested in: from wildlife habitat, to recreational ideas, to involving the next generation. We also know that for owners of working forests, you’ve come to rely on the vital information in Tree Farmer magazine to help you make the best choices for your land and your business. Putting Continued on page 38 New By Ring BETTINA from the director 4 When I first interviewed at the American Forest Foundation for the position of senior vice president for family forests, I was asked what my vision for the Tree Farm System was. I answered that I wanted to embrace the very best of the rich history of Tree Farm and build on it, as I also work with our volunteers, partners, Tree Farmers, and staff in looking toward the future. I knew we had some challenges to face, but I also knew the strong values and benefits behind that green and white sign: decades of hard work and a deep and lasting love of the land, forest land, clean water, wildlife, recreation, family, place, community. A lot has changed in the forestry community during the past 70 years. Just in the past 11 years, since I worked as the Deputy State Forester of the Virginia Department of Forestry, the change has been exponential. Still, the Tree Farm System has endured. We continue to add new Tree Farmers to the system—2,600 last year, along with 1.29 million more acres of certified forest land. Yet, we have a lot of chal- Tree Farmer Winter 2012

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Tree Farmer - Winter 2012

Tree Farmer - Winter 2012
Contents
From the Director
Forest News
After the Election, Time to Re-engage
Finding Their Way
A Woman’s Touch
Real-World Education
Connecting Kids to Nature
Sharing Your Experiences
Ties to the Land
Woodland Security
Taxing Issues

Tree Farmer - Winter 2012