This commitment to forest stewardship is a pillar of the ATFS program of which we are particularly proud. Creating a sustainable forest and maintaining it for all the public benefits that support our communities – clean water, wildlife habitat, recreation, and sustainable wood – cannot be done overnight. It takes foresight, planning, patience, dedication, and ongoing work – actions that Tree Farmers across the country take on year after year. Some for 20 years, some for 40 years, some for three to four generations.

Given the importance of the resources that come from forests, and the size and scope of some of the challenges forest owners face – catastrophic wildfires, insects, invasive species, the rising costs of forest management to name a few – this commitment is paramount. 

The Tree Farm sign, in return, signals to the community and beyond that these forest owners are committed to good stewardship and conservation, yielding benefits that are enjoyed by the broader community.

Our regional Outstanding Tree Farmers also highlight the ATFS program’s commitment to sustainability throughout the lifecycle of forests.  ATFS programming and the certification process not only validates that landowners are doing right by their land, but it also gives them the confidence to deepen their conservation practices. In addition, following the best management practices ensures we will have this resource in the future. On top of this, the commitment to sustainability is also felt through the community of volunteers from agencies, conservation groups, universities, companies and trade associations that are committed to nurturing stewardship.