| The purpose of
using a professional forester is to obtain valuable assistance in
the management and/or marketing of one's forest resources.
Just as one seeks expert medical,
or business advice to improve one's health or finances, the employment of a
professional forester can be expected to improve the forest health and
income received from one's forestland.
It is in the interest of the landowner to obtain advice since any operation carried out in the forest has a long lasting effect.
Providing assistance in the management
and marketing of one's forest resources can be divided into two
categories found in the following directory. These are private
Consulting Foresters (CF) or industry Landowner Assistance
Program (LAP) foresters:
A CF's fees are based on the time and
expense required to complete a job. Where sales of forest products
are involved, fees may be based on a percentage (usually 7-10%) of
the sale price. Usually several bids (at least three bids are
recommended) are obtained by the CF on a timber sale to secure
the highest price. The sale is monitored by the CF for compliance of
the Timber Sales Contract. CFs can provide much other timber
management assistance work also as listed in the directory.
A LAP forester represents an
industrial forest company. LAP foresters offer landowners a variety
of forestry services to assist in establishing and/or managing their
forests. LAP foresters will assist landowners with tree planting
and site preparation needs. Free seedlings are sometimes offered to
the landowner when contracting with a LAP forester. Some companies
require the right of first refusal to the landowner's timber at
harvest for their services offered.
The Arkansas Forestry Commission does
not assume responsibility for the actions of individuals or a firm
listed and does not imply endorsement of any particular listing. |