Ask the Steward - Final Column

Question: Is this really the final ‘Ask the Steward’ column?

Answer: Yes. It’s been fun, and I would like to express my gratitude to the readers and woodland owners.  ‘Ask the Steward’ began as a Q&A column in the very first issue of Woodland Steward in 1992, with goals of being both informative and entertaining. Since its inception, I've had the privilege of addressing nearly 200 questions, exploring a broad variety of topics about nature and woodlands—from ticks and timber to even water witching. The years have flown by since that initial question about grapevines. And while a third of a century might sound like a long time, it's actually a relatively short period in context of trees and forestry.

So, thank you readers for your support and woodland owners for your stewardship over these years. Enjoy this final question as I and many of you contemplate the years ahead. Enjoy your woods, share with family and friends and extend your circle of stewardship.

From the woods- Dan.

Question: As I contemplate the future of the family woodland how can I conserve it long term?

Answer: This is a common question as woodland owners look at succession planning. They have put their love and time into the land, built family memories and shaped the land through years of conservation. They don’t want to see their hard work undone, the land split into smaller parcels and the woodland resources exploited. But what to do? While there are several strategies (such as family trusts, LLC, and deed restrictions) very few options are durable and can stand the test of time. In contrast, ‘conservation easements’ (CE), done correctly, are durable options which offer long-term conservation along with potential estate and income tax benefits. It allows the landowner to retain landownership while restricting certain uses and future development of the land. Land management is guided by an approved conservation or woodland management plan.

The CE is a long-term ‘forever’ agreement between the landowner and a ‘qualified conservation entity’ (holder) to manage and protect the property’s conservation values. The CE runs with the land and binds future owners to follow the terms of the CE agreement. While this is a powerful strategy, it best fits woodlands with unique features, such as: significant acreage, sensitive areas, and/or proximity to other protected woodlands.

If pursuing this strategy key considerations include 1) the terms of the CE agreement and 2) the holder of the CE. The holder needs to be a qualified conservation entity who will enforce the CE over time, partner well with the landowner and honor the terms of the CE. Identifying an appropriate holder is as important as negotiating the terms of the CE agreement.

Examples of qualified holders include Land Trusts, Conservancies and governmental agencies like the Indiana DNR. So where does a landowner start?  If working now with a professional forester or conservation specialist (e.g. district forester, consultant forester), start there.  Ask about conservation easement terms and land trusts.  Seek out web-based resources. Information on Indiana land trusts can be found on the Indiana Land Protection Alliance website- www.protectindianaland.org   Search also for ‘succession planning for woodland owners’ and ‘conservation easements’. While not Indiana specific, good sites include: www.forestsociety.org/Easement-Stewardship  and www.vermontwoodlands.org/woodland-legacy-planning

As you look at succession planning choose a strategy that is right for you and your woodlands. Take your time, talk with your family and seek good counsel. The resources above are a good start.

In closing: As one tree said to another. ‘I hate to go, but it’s spring and time to leaf!’