Forestry Resources

Indiana Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry (DRN DOF):

The Indiana DNR Division of Forestry promotes and practices good stewardship of natural, recreational and cultural resources on Indiana’s public and private forest lands. This stewardship produces continuing benefits, both tangible and intangible, for present and future generations. Their website contains extensive information regarding forest conservation and management. Here is an overview along with the mission statement of the Indiana DNR Division of Forestry.

 

The Indiana Forestry & Woodland Owners Association (IFWOA):

IFWOA was founded in 1977 and is a non-profit organization dedicated to conservation and sustainable management of woodlands in Indiana. IFWOA advocates for scientific best practices for management to achieve objectives of clean water, wildlife habitat, soil protection, native species diversity, timber production, recreation, carbon sequestration and many others. Owen County SWCD encourages all landowners to apply for an IFWOA membership for just $50 per year or $135 for three years.

As a member of IFWOA, you receive:

• The Leaves & Limbs newsletter
• Woodland Steward magazine
• The Directory of Professional Foresters
• Representation by the IFWOA political action committee
• Educational seminars, training and field days
• Annual meetings to share experiences and learn from knowledgeable authorities and other landowners.

 

American Tree Farm System:

The American Tree Farm System is a program for woodland owners who are committed to sustainably managing their woods for wood, water, wildlife and recreation.  Each state program is run by a diverse group of partners, such as state agencies, non-profit organizations, volunteers, foresters and landowners.  As part of the American Tree Farm System, you will have the tools and support to help keep your woods thriving for generations to come. 

Certified Tree Farmers need to meet the following criteria:

• Own 10 acres or more
• Manage the property under a written management plan that accounts for water quality, wildlife habitat, soil conservation as well as forest product production
• Protect the land from fire, insects, disease and destructive grazing.

 

Classified Forests and Wildlands Program:

The Classified Forest and Wildlands Program encourages timber production, watershed protection, and wildlife habitat management on private lands in Indiana. Program landowners receive a property tax reduction in return for following a professionally written management plan. In addition to the tax incentive, landowners receive free technical assistance from DNR foresters and wildlife biologists, priority for cost-share to offset the cost of doing management, and the ability to “green” certify their forests. The minimum requirement for program enrollment is 10 acres of forest, wetland, shrubland, and/or grassland.

 

Indiana Woodland Steward Institute:

The Woodland Steward Institute is made up of 11 member organizations. The purpose of the Institute is to promote the wise use of Indiana’s forest resources. Most of this work is accomplished through tri-annual meetings and the Woodland Steward free publication, printed and mailed three times per year. Sign up for their news letter to receive a calendar of their events, published articles, and forestry resources.

 

 

Purdue Extension:

Purdue Extension is conservation partner with Owen County SWCD and provides great resources on forestry through their own partnerships with the Indiana DNR, Purdue University Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, and the USDA Forest Service. Here is a link to their publication for the 10 Steps for Successful Tree and Shrub Planting. They also have a great publication on the Process and Practices of Tree Installation. For more information about how to obtain forestry resources please contact Owen County Purdue Extension at 812-829-5020 or visit their office at 180 S Washington St, Spencer, IN 47460.

 

 

Walnut Council:

The Walnut Council is a science based organization that encourages research, discussion, and application of knowledge about growing hardwood trees. This international association represents nearly 800 woodland owners, foresters, forest scientists, and wood-producing industry representatives. They promote sustainable forest management, conservation, reforestation, and utilization of American black walnut (Juglans nigra) and other fine hardwoods.

 

Charles Deam Award:

The Charles Deam Forest Stewardship award recognizes Indiana woodland owners who have demonstrated exceptional management of their woodlands. Anyone can nominate an Indiana landowner for this award. Self nominations are not accepted. Nominations are due June 15th. Finalists will be recognized at the 2022 Awards banquet November 5 at the Clifty Falls Inn in Madison. Attached is an information, rules, and nomination form.