Frequently Asked Questions

Why is using a consulting forester a good idea when selling my timber?

Each participant in a timber sale comes to forest management and the timber sale from a different perspective. The consulting forester’s job is to align the relationships of the timber buyer/logger and the landowner to achieve the desired result. It is about developing expectations, aligning interests, and performance. University studies demonstrate landowners working with qualified consulting foresters generate higher revenues, retain more value, and enhance future values while achieving a broader range of objectives.

What factors affect the value of my timber?

While many things affect the value of a particular stand of timber, key factors include:

• Tree species. Certain species are worth more than others.
• Tree size. Small trees are less valuable than larger ones.
• Condition of trees. Are the trees damaged, diseased, or poorly formed?
• Quality of trees. Are the trees suited for veneer, saw-timber, or pallet material?
• Market demand. Is the market for what you are selling good or bad?
• Logging conditions. Is the terrain steep, flat, wet, or dry?
• Access. Is the woods close to a road, or will loggers have to cross other properties? With this in mind, it is the job of the consulting forester to match your timber sale to the buyer or buyers needing what you are offering. In most cases this results in the best price.

7 Reasons Indiana’s Woodland Owners Should Work with Consulting Foresters