The Forestry Assistance Program (FAP) focuses on providing education and technical assistance to private landowners regarding forest management. The purpose of this program is to aid Conservation Districts in their efforts to help Michigan residents to better understand, protect, and utilize forest resources. FAP provides an initial professional contact with landowners who are interested in actively managing their forested property for recreation, wildlife, timber harvest, ecosystem preservation, etc.
To better assist landowners with management of their forest resources, the District Forester is available to meet with landowners at no cost. During the walk-through, you will discuss your goals and management history and complete a rapid inventory of your property. If applicable, you may be referred to resource professionals and assistance programs to help you meet your management goals. For questions, more information, or to get started, contact your District Forester.
Qualified Forest Program
What is Michigan’s Qualified Forest Program?
The Qualified Forest Program (QFP) provides property tax exemption for private landowners who actively manage their forests and woodlands for commercial harvest. The goal of the program is to fuel regional economies through timber harvest and individual tax savings.
How does land qualify for the program?
Please contact our District Forester to learn if your land is eligible.
What are the benefits of enrolling in the QFP?
- A maximum 18 mill reduction of school operating taxes on non-homestead property with the Qualified Forest School Tax Affidavit
- Under a Taxable Value Affidavit, prevents the “uncapping” of a property’s taxable value when a parcel currently enrolled under the qualified forest program changes ownership
How to Apply for QFP
Contact your FAP Forester or visit the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s Qualified Forest Program page to download an application and find more information
Forestry Management Plans
Need help putting together a management plan for your forest? There are a wide variety of companies/individuals throughout West Michigan that provide professional assistance for forestry management planning. These companies may be able to do more comprehensive Land Management Plans as well upon request. Check out local professional assistance options in Barry, Allegan, and Ottawa Counties here.
Meet Your FAP Forester
Isabelle Uganski is the Southwest Michigan Forestry Assistance Program (FAP) Forester serving Allegan, Barry, Calhoun, Eaton, Ionia, Kalamazoo, Kent, Ottawa, and Van Buren Counties. She supports private woodland landowner enrollment into the Qualified Forest Program as well as provides assistance with any forest health concerns. She earned her B.S. in Environmental Science from Siena Heights University, where she built her foundational knowledge and experience in ecology. She obtained her M.S. in Forestry from West Virginia University, where she researched invasive plant species presence and impact to forest understory and soil communities. She is looking forward to continuing her career at the intersection of private landownership, local conservation, and statewide sustainable forest management.
269-908-4134