A Landowner's Guide to Managing Your Woods: How to Maintain a Small Acreage for Long-Term Health, Biodiversity, and High-Quality Timber Production - Paperback

Practical Woodland Management for Small Acreage Owners

This comprehensive guide provides landowners with the essential knowledge to maintain healthy, sustainable woodland ecosystems on properties ranging from a few suburban acres to small commercial forests. Written by experienced forestry professionals and sustainable farming experts, the book delivers actionable strategies for responsible forest stewardship.

Essential Forest Management Techniques

The guide covers fundamental woodland management skills tailored for small-scale properties. Learn to identify tree species accurately, assess forest health indicators, and evaluate timber quality. The book provides clear strategies for encouraging biodiversity while maintaining productive woodland capable of generating high-quality timber over the long term.

Proven methods balance ecological health with practical land management objectives. Topics include forest ecosystem dynamics, sustainable harvesting practices, and creating management plans that support wildlife habitat alongside timber production goals.

Expert Authors with Field Experience

Steve and Ann Larkin Hansen bring over 20 years of family farm management experience in Wisconsin. Ann has authored multiple agricultural and land management books, including The Organic Farming Manual and Making Hay, and has contributed to Mother Earth News. Her practical approach reflects hands-on experience managing working landscapes.

Mike Severson, a Certified Master Logger, licensed arborist, and tree surgeon, contributes expertise in sustainable forestry and forest management education. Dennis L. Waterman, a professional consulting forester specializing in private small acreage properties, provides insights on forest stewardship management plans, timber harvest operations, and forest inventory techniques.

Multiple-Use Property Management

The guide addresses unique challenges facing small woodland owners managing their property for multiple benefits. Whether your goals include wildlife habitat enhancement, recreational use, timber income, or preserving forest health for future generations, you'll find relevant guidance for your situation.

Sustainable practices protect soil quality, water resources, and native plant communities while allowing for responsible timber management. Gain confidence to make informed decisions about your woodland property and understand when to seek professional forestry assistance.

Published by Storey Publishing in paperback format, this resource serves as an essential reference for new woodland owners and experienced landowners seeking to improve their forest management practices.