I think one of the most overlooked subcategories of agriculture is forestry.

I’ve been learning more about this industry over the past two years in my home state of Maryland, and I have to say, it is fascinating and fast-growing (no tree pun intended)!

Last year, I got the opportunity to host a forestry tour for our region here in southern Maryland.

We visited a managed farm and walked through the forest taking tree samples; a lumberyard to see the product in action; and a forest career and technology center to see the students who are planning to enter the industry.

More farmers in our area are incorporating forest management plans into their overall farm plan, including my parents who have a hay farm with about 20 acres of woods. These plans are site-specific and help landowners understand their woodlands' health and potential. It's developed based on the landowner's management objectives and the expertise of a certified forester. 

Certified foresters design and implement plans for managing forests, including how to plant and grow new trees; harvest timber; and protect against pests, disease and wildfires. 

More than meets the eye

While forestry obviously involves the strategic management of forests to produce timber, it also includes non-timber forest products.

There are a diverse range of goods harvested from forests, including nuts, berries and mushrooms; medicinal plants and fibers; and commodities such as fuel wood and wild game.

Forestry encompasses several practices:  

Selective logging. This involves harvesting only mature or overmature trees, leaving younger trees to continue growing. Selective logging minimizes damage to the forest ecosystem and promotes long-term sustainability.

Clearcutting. While often controversial, clearcutting can be a necessary tool for regenerating forests in certain situations, such as after a natural disturbance or to establish new plantations.

Shelterwood cutting. This method involves removing mature trees in stages over several years, creating gaps in the canopy that allow sunlight to reach the forest floor and stimulate the growth of younger trees.

Seed tree cutting. Like shelterwood cutting, seed tree cutting removes most mature trees, leaving a few to provide seeds for natural regeneration.

Reforestation. This involves planting trees to replace those that have been harvested.

Thinning. This removes smaller, less desirable trees to improve the growth of remaining trees.

Pruning. This involves removing branches to improve tree health and timber quality.

Pest and disease control. Implementing integrated pest management strategies can minimize damage to trees.

Fire management. Prescribed burning can reduce fuel loads and improve forest health.

What are the benefits to you?

The first benefit is having a more diverse income stream from timber sales, harvesting non-timber forestry products and carbon sequestration payments.

The second is environmental benefits. Forests play a vital role in mitigating climate change, protecting water quality and providing habitat for wildlife, as well as helping to prevent soil erosion and improve soil fertility.

The third is adding value. Forests provide recreational options like hiking, camping and hunting, which can enhance property values and attract tourists.

Here’s some fun facts that I gleaned recently from the American Loggers Council:  

Adding a forestry plan

If you’re interested in adding a forestry management plan to your farm, follow these steps:

Assess your land. Evaluate your property's suitability for forestry, considering factors like soil type, slope and tree species.

Work with a forester to develop the plan. Create a detailed plan that outlines your goals, objectives and management practices.

Obtain necessary permits. Ensure compliance with local, state and federal regulations.

Invest in equipment and tools. Purchase or rent equipment for tasks such as planting, thinning and harvesting.

Market your products. Identify potential buyers for your timber, non-timber forest products and other products.

Monitor and adapt. Continuously monitor your forest and adjust your management practices as needed to achieve your goals.

By embracing forestry, you have an opportunity to create a sustainable and profitable enterprise while preserving natural resources for future generations.