Network News: Inspectors Archive  filter by date: March 2011

Follow the Chain!

Wood harvested from Tree Farm Certified lands is recognized as certified fiber by the Sustainable Forestry Initiative® (SFI) and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification systems (PEFC). Mills across the country are interested in tracking certified fiber which includes Tree Farm wood. American Tree Farm System Certification can be a marketing point for your clients’ wood. When you are working with landowners to prepare for a harvest, be sure to follow these best practices.

Carbon Planning Tool

A new carbon planning tool is now available on the American Tree Farm System website www.treefarmsystem.org/trainings-resources-for-inspectors. The Management Guidance Supplement for Carbon Sequestration will help foresters and landowners in the planning process for managing  for increased carbon storage on their land. 

 Special thanks to the U.S. Forest Service for providing the support to develop this tool.

SAF Continuing Forester Education Credits

We are making it easier for ATFS Inspectors to claim SAF Continuing Forester Education (CFE) credits for our inspector trainings. ATFS met with SAF staff and clarified the process to claim Inspector Training credits.

Good Management Practice Spring 2011

The Standards checklist on the  new 004 form includes all of the 2010–2015 Standards. By following these Standards, Tree Farmers are the best ambassadors for well-managed private forests because they take their forest heritage seriously and are committed to keeping their forests healthy, productive, and enjoyable. Next to each Standard are check boxes labeled “yes,” “no” and “n/a” (not applicable).

Stumped Spring 2011

Answers to Inspectors’ Most Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What does it mean for a management plan to “address” resources elements such as forest health, soil, water, wood and fiber production, threatened and endangered species, special sites, invasive species, integrated pest management and high conservation value forests?

Q:As an inspector, what sort of evidence should I look for to see if the Tree Farmer has met the Standards’ indicators?

Q:How can I get information from Tree Farm on a more regular basis?

Q:What are high conservation value forests and how can Tree Farmers tell if they have one on their property?

Q:How can a Tree Farmer “consider” integrated pest management in their management to control pest, pathogens, and unwanted vegetation?