Healthy managed forest in Upstate New York

Forest Management Consulting

Professional guidance for long-term forest health, productivity, and value. Sustainable management strategies tailored to your goals.

Managing Your Forest for the Future

Your forest is a long-term investment that requires thoughtful stewardship. Whether you own 10 acres or 1,000 acres, professional forest management ensures your woodland remains healthy, productive, and valuable for future generations.

As your consulting forester, I develop customized management strategies based on your specific goals—whether that's maximizing timber income, creating wildlife habitat, protecting water quality, or simply enjoying your property.

Good forest management isn't just about cutting trees. It's about understanding forest ecology, planning for the long term, and making informed decisions that balance your objectives with environmental sustainability.

Professional forester inspecting forest stand

Forest Management Services

Comprehensive forestry consulting services to help you achieve your land management goals.

Forest Management Plans
Comprehensive written plans that outline your forest's current condition, your goals, and specific recommendations for achieving those objectives over time.
Timber Stand Improvement
Professional guidance on improving forest health through selective thinning, removing diseased trees, and promoting growth of valuable species.
Reforestation & Planting
Expert advice on species selection, planting techniques, and establishing new forest stands for long-term productivity and ecological health.
Harvest Supervision
On-site oversight during logging operations to ensure contractors follow the management plan and protect your property from unnecessary damage.
Tax & Incentive Programs
Guidance on forestry tax benefits, conservation easements, and government cost-share programs that can reduce your ownership costs.
Long-Term Planning
Strategic planning for estate transfer, future timber sales, wildlife habitat management, and balancing multiple land use objectives.

Why Professional Forest Management Matters

Maximize Long-Term Value

Proper management increases your forest's productivity and timber value over time. Strategic thinning and species selection can double your timber income over 20-30 years.

Protect Your Investment

Professional guidance helps you avoid costly mistakes. Poor harvest practices or neglect can damage your forest for decades and significantly reduce its value.

Achieve Multiple Goals

Balance timber production with wildlife habitat, recreation, aesthetics, and conservation. Professional planning helps you meet multiple objectives simultaneously.

Access Financial Incentives

Qualify for government cost-share programs, tax benefits, and conservation easements that can offset management costs and reduce property taxes.

Plan for Succession

Ensure your forest legacy continues. Strategic planning helps transfer forest land to the next generation while minimizing tax burdens and family conflicts.

Environmental Stewardship

Well-managed forests provide clean water, wildlife habitat, carbon storage, and recreational opportunities while still generating income from timber sales.

How Forest Management Works

A straightforward process that puts your goals first.

1
Initial Consultation
We meet on your property to discuss your goals, concerns, and vision for your forest. This conversation helps me understand what matters most to you.
2
Forest Inventory & Assessment
I conduct a thorough evaluation of your forest's current condition, including species composition, timber volume, health issues, and opportunities for improvement.
3
Written Management Plan
You receive a comprehensive written plan with specific recommendations, timeline, and cost estimates. This document becomes your roadmap for the next 10-20 years.
4
Implementation & Ongoing Support
I help you implement the management plan, supervise any harvest operations, and provide ongoing advice as your forest grows and your goals evolve.

Ready to Maximize Your Timber Value?

Schedule a free on-site timber assessment with Scottie Hatch. With 15 years of experience, we'll help you understand your property's true potential.