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Sell Your Trees Carefully
Posted: October 13, 2009

If you own one acre of forest land or more than 1,000 acres, the trees represent one of the most valuable resources on your property. Trees can provide a source of income, habitat to wildlife and can improve the value of the land. The decision to harvest trees is important for you and your family and should be protected by using a professional forester and a written contract.

A professional forester will protect your interests much like a real estate agent helps with selling your house. They are uniquely qualified to assist with a timber harvest that accomplishes your needs and expectations. It is in their best interest to market your trees to reputable loggers that will pay a fair price. Never sell your trees without a contract with whoever will be paying you for your trees.

"Every year I get calls from forest landowners who made a handshake agreement to sell their trees to people who will pay the landowner after the trees are graded and they get paid by the sawmill. After a year goes by and the landowner has not been paid, they call the DNR for help. Unfortunately, there is nothing we can do to help landowners that do not have a signed contract," says Aron Flickinger, forester with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

A good contract is developed to ensure that:

• You are paid in full prior to the time that trees are removed
• Your forest, soil and water resources are protected
• The harvest area is left in good condition
• There are no assumptions about how the harvest will be conducted
• Your special concerns are addressed
• You are satisfied with the outcome of the sale

"A reputable logger is working hard to make a living for themselves and maintains a good reputation in the community. No matter how nice the person seems, get a signed contract before one tree gets cut. After all, you wouldn't sell your corn, beans or livestock without a contract," Flickinger said.

"Think of the trees on your property as another type of crop. They just take longer to harvest, and if managed properly, can provide income for your farm as well as habitat for wildlife along the way," Flickinger said.

Work with a forester before you sell your trees. People that can assist you with your timber harvest can be found at this website: http://www.iowadnr.gov/forestry/district.html or http://www.iowadnr.gov/forestry/pdf/Consultant%20list.pdf.