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  11. <title>Forest Resource Consultants, Inc.</title>
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  13. <link>https://frc.us.com</link>
  14. <description>Providing management assistance with services such as: reforestation projects, timber sales, timber inventory &#38; more.</description>
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  25. <title>Forest Resource Consultants, Inc.</title>
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  31. <title>Timberland Investment Fundamentals and the Current Challenge to Place Capital</title>
  32. <link>https://frc.us.com/timberland-investment-fundamentals/</link>
  34. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Brian Stone]]></dc:creator>
  35. <pubDate>Thu, 01 Feb 2024 04:41:14 +0000</pubDate>
  36. <category><![CDATA[Articles & White Papers]]></category>
  37. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://frc.us.com/?p=7034</guid>
  38.  
  39. <description><![CDATA[<p>Timberland Investment Fundamentals The author of this article, Dr. Brooks Mendell, is President and CEO of Forisk Consulting. He has three decades of consulting, operating, and research experience in the forest products and timber industries. For more than 20 years, he has provided research, management consulting, and educational services to timberland investors, timber REITs, wood-using … <a href="https://frc.us.com/timberland-investment-fundamentals/">Continue Reading &#8594;</a></p>
  40. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com/timberland-investment-fundamentals/">Timberland Investment Fundamentals and the Current Challenge to Place Capital</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com">Forest Resource Consultants, Inc.</a>.</p>
  41. ]]></description>
  42. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2>Timberland Investment Fundamentals</h2>
  43. <p>The author of this article, Dr. Brooks Mendell, is President and CEO of <a href="https://forisk.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Forisk Consulting</strong></a><strong>.</strong> He has three decades of consulting, operating, and research experience in the forest products and timber industries. For more than 20 years, he has provided research, management consulting, and educational services to timberland investors, timber REITs, wood-using manufacturing and bioenergy firms. This was originally published on <strong><a href="https://forisk.com/blog/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Forisk&#8217;s Blog</a></strong> in the January 2024 and has been republished with permission.</p>
  44. <p>Timberland markets remain extremely competitive as investors struggle to acquire assets. Quotes from Forisk conversations with timberland investors and TIMO executives over the past several months include:</p>
  45. <ul>
  46. <li><em>“The challenge remains placing capital. We get close, but not quite there.” </em></li>
  47. <li><em>“We are close, but not able to win any deals.” </em></li>
  48. <li><em>“Some investors…have actually reduced their discount rates.”</em></li>
  49. </ul>
  50. <p>Analysis from MetLife Investment Management (MIM) in December 2023 supported the observation on timberland discount rates: “<em>Despite the rapid rise in interest rates, the average U.S. timberland discount rate in MIM’s debt portfolio decreased by approximately 34 basis points since 2019</em>.”</p>
  51. <p>To find an edge, timberland investors are deploying multi-part valuation models and working to leverage carbon markets, solar deals, and real estate. Tracking of transactions highlights a combination of low discount rates relative to rising interest rates, buoyant projections and expectations for forest carbon markets, and aggressive assumptions associated with land appreciation.</p>
  52. <p>That said, a portion of the market remains committed to the “<a href="https://frc.us.com/">forestry</a>” fundamentals. One private timberland owner kept returning to the realities of distance and margins. “Look, the way we see it it’s all about mileage to the mill. If you’re farther away from the mill, your stumpage is worth less. It’s that simple.”</p>
  53. <h4><strong>Traditional Drivers of Timberland Returns</strong></h4>
  54. <p>When investing in timberland, the price paid crucially affects the ultimate profitability of the investment. Outside of acquisition price, timberland investment returns are largely a function of (1) biological tree growth; (2) timber price changes; and (3) land value appreciation. The extent to which each of these drive returns from a given tract depends in part on the geographic region and the specific location of the timberland relative to wood-using mills and population centers. Location matters.</p>
  55. <p>Biological growth, which includes (1) increases in volume and weight and (2) enhanced value from a tree growing from a lower-priced product to a higher-priced one, remains an important part of the timberland investment calculus. It offers the most basic form of “optionality” as larger diameter trees can be used for wider range of mostly higher-valued end products.</p>
  56. <p>Active forest management, once an innovative strategy, is now an operational requirement for timberland investment success. Active management includes leveraging all available cash flows from recreation and hunting and new markets such as carbon and solar, in addition to increasing forest productivity from improved seedlings and intensive silvicultural treatments. Productive forests support higher cash flows and values.</p>
  57. <h4><strong>Timberland Investment Vehicles</strong></h4>
  58. <p>Investors have three basic ways to add timberland to their portfolios, not including those available through debt markets (e.g. making loans or buying bonds in timberland-owning companies).</p>
  59. <p>First, <strong>investors can directly acquire and manage timberlands</strong>. With this approach, investors enjoy the full diversification, wealth preservation, and cash flow benefits of owning trees. Ownership also requires the capital and ongoing commitment of having or hiring and maintaining the forestry and operational expertise required to optimize and manage the assets.</p>
  60. <p>Second, <strong>investors can outsource by providing funds to a timberland investment specialist </strong>to acquire and manage timberland investments on their behalf. Institutional investors, for example, will work with a timberland investment management organization (<strong><a href="https://forisk.com/blog/2023/06/20/north-americas-top-timberland-owners-and-managers-2023-update/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TIMO</a></strong>). Within this approach, investors have options with respect to the nature and structure of the fund.</p>
  61. <p>This ranges from employing a single-investor separate account to participating in a commingled fund with other investors to joining a “fund-of-funds” that pools capital for use in a set of commingled funds managed by different TIMOs.</p>
  62. <p>Third, <strong>investors can “go public” and acquire shares in traded timberland-owning real estate investment trusts</strong> (<strong><a href="https://forisk.com/blog/2023/10/24/timber-reit-performance-and-estimating-net-asset-values-navs/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">timber REITs</a></strong>). The most liquid of the three described investment approaches, the currently available timber REITs include Weyerhaeuser (WY), Rayonier (RYN), and PotlatchDeltic (PCH).</p>
  63. <p>&nbsp;</p>
  64. <div class="bsc-shortcode bsc-infobox box-green"><div class="infobox-content">
  65. <h4><strong><em>How can FRC help?</em></strong></h4>
  66. <p>For more than fifty years, FRC has advised landowners on sourcing, acquiring, and managing forests to meet their investment goals. Contact us to discuss how we can help you succeed in your pursuit of new investment opportunities.</p>
  67. <p><a href="/talk-to-a-forester/" class="button button-size-medium orange">Let's Talk</a></p>
  68. </div></div>
  69. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com/timberland-investment-fundamentals/">Timberland Investment Fundamentals and the Current Challenge to Place Capital</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com">Forest Resource Consultants, Inc.</a>.</p>
  70. ]]></content:encoded>
  74. </item>
  75. <item>
  76. <title>How Do I Evaluate or Appeal My Property Tax Assessments?</title>
  77. <link>https://frc.us.com/how-do-i-evaluate-or-appeal-my-property-tax-assessments/</link>
  79. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Forest Resource Consultants,]]></dc:creator>
  80. <pubDate>Mon, 27 Nov 2023 17:38:51 +0000</pubDate>
  81. <category><![CDATA[Articles & White Papers]]></category>
  82. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://forestresource.wpengine.com/?p=1980</guid>
  83.  
  84. <description><![CDATA[<p>Property tax assessments and taxes have increased significantly since 2000, and in many cases have added a disproportionate financial burden to rural landowners. </p>
  85. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com/how-do-i-evaluate-or-appeal-my-property-tax-assessments/">How Do I Evaluate or Appeal My Property Tax Assessments?</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com">Forest Resource Consultants, Inc.</a>.</p>
  86. ]]></description>
  87. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<h3>How Do I Evaluate or Appeal My Property Tax Assessments?</h3>
  88. <p><a href="https://frc.us.com/land-for-sale/">Land</a> <span style="font-weight: 400;">is a unique, tangible asset that can provide financial, recreational, and many other benefits. These benefits create value. Taxing this value provides a reliable and dependable revenue stream for some local governments and school systems. With ever increasing demands for improvement in infrastructure, economic development, and education, local taxing authorities rely heavily on tax revenues to finance improvements.</span></p>
  89. <div class="bsc-shortcode bsc-infobox box-blue"><div class="infobox-content">
  90. <h3>FRC has helped landowners steward their lands for more than 50 years, and we understand the strong connection between landowners and their lands.</h3>
  91. <p><strong>Over the years, we have assisted landowners with:</strong></p>
  92. <ul>
  93. <li>Contesting assessment valuations</li>
  94. <li>Appealing tax bills</li>
  95. <li>Enrolling lands in preferential tax programs</li>
  96. </ul>
  97. <p>We understand the desire for successful generational transfer, and the enduring legacy that land can build. We are active in the rural land market as well, and we have a deep understanding of the market forces that affect value.<br />
  98. </div></div>
  99. Rural land ownership can provide great enjoyment. <a href="https://forisk.com/blog/2023/06/20/north-americas-top-timberland-owners-and-managers-2023-update/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Landowners</a> often develop a strong connection to their lands over time, which can be cultivated and passed to future generations.<br />
  100. <div class="bsc-shortcode bsc-infobox box-green"><div class="infobox-content">
  101. <h4><a href="/talk-to-a-forester/">Contact us today with your tax concerns</a> and allow us to help you preserve your lands for your benefit now, and in the years to come.</h4>
  102. <p>Let us help you determine if you are paying inequitable property taxes due to inflated or incorrect property assessments. We can review your property information, diagnose your unique situation, and provide information regarding applicable preferential tax assessment programs. Our first consult is free, and we will provide a clear explanation of our recommended actions, deliverables, and costs before continuing.</p>
  103. <p><center><a href="/talk-to-a-forester/" class="button button-size-medium orange">Talk to a Forester</a></center><br />
  104. </div></div>
  105. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com/how-do-i-evaluate-or-appeal-my-property-tax-assessments/">How Do I Evaluate or Appeal My Property Tax Assessments?</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com">Forest Resource Consultants, Inc.</a>.</p>
  106. ]]></content:encoded>
  110. </item>
  111. <item>
  112. <title>Appraising the Appraisal Process</title>
  113. <link>https://frc.us.com/appraising-the-appraisal-process/</link>
  115. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Shae Hinson]]></dc:creator>
  116. <pubDate>Fri, 15 Sep 2023 04:00:57 +0000</pubDate>
  117. <category><![CDATA[Articles & White Papers]]></category>
  118. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://first-sailboat.flywheelsites.com/?p=6258</guid>
  119.  
  120. <description><![CDATA[<p>Appraisal Process Management of the appraisal process can be a daunting task for you, your family, and your business. The key to successful management is engaging a competent certified appraiser experienced in forestland valuation. Appraisals can be invaluable tools in the planning process for estates, families, generational transfers, and businesses. With more than 40 years … <a href="https://frc.us.com/appraising-the-appraisal-process/">Continue Reading &#8594;</a></p>
  121. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com/appraising-the-appraisal-process/">Appraising the Appraisal Process</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com">Forest Resource Consultants, Inc.</a>.</p>
  122. ]]></description>
  123. <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <div data-elementor-type="wp-post" data-elementor-id="6258" class="elementor elementor-6258" data-elementor-post-type="post">
  124. <section class="elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-540176be elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default" data-id="540176be" data-element_type="section">
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  127. <div class="elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated">
  128. <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-78a8e6c elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor" data-id="78a8e6c" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="text-editor.default">
  129. <div class="elementor-widget-container">
  130. <style>/*! elementor - v3.21.0 - 30-04-2024 */
  131. .elementor-widget-text-editor.elementor-drop-cap-view-stacked .elementor-drop-cap{background-color:#69727d;color:#fff}.elementor-widget-text-editor.elementor-drop-cap-view-framed .elementor-drop-cap{color:#69727d;border:3px solid;background-color:transparent}.elementor-widget-text-editor:not(.elementor-drop-cap-view-default) .elementor-drop-cap{margin-top:8px}.elementor-widget-text-editor:not(.elementor-drop-cap-view-default) .elementor-drop-cap-letter{width:1em;height:1em}.elementor-widget-text-editor .elementor-drop-cap{float:left;text-align:center;line-height:1;font-size:50px}.elementor-widget-text-editor .elementor-drop-cap-letter{display:inline-block}</style> <h2 class="entry-title">Appraisal Process</h2><p>Management of the appraisal process can be a daunting task for you, your family, and your business. The key to successful management is engaging a competent certified appraiser experienced in forestland valuation. Appraisals can be invaluable tools in the planning process for estates, families, generational transfers, and businesses. With more than 40 years completing forestland appraisals, we have witnessed families, businesses, and investors reap significant returns on investment after completing a quality mapping, timber inventory, and appraisal project. Hopefully, this article will clarify the appraisal process and be a resource for you in the management of your <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">forestland</a> property.</p> </div>
  132. </div>
  133. <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-4186656d elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor" data-id="4186656d" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="text-editor.default">
  134. <div class="elementor-widget-container">
  135. <div style="position: relative; padding-top: max(60%,326px); height: 0; width: 100%;"><iframe style="position: absolute; border: none; width: 100%; height: 100%; left: 0; right: 0; top: 0; bottom: 0;" src="https://e.issuu.com/embed.html?d=julyaugust2023-appraisals_1_&amp;hideIssuuLogo=true&amp;hideShareButton=true&amp;logoImageUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fscl%2Ffi%2Feeip57tz70d99el37pwqj%2FFRC-Final-Logos-1-FULLCOLOR.jpg%3Frlkey%3Dpgqrgg6mymzxql8zvbrorm5p2%26dl%3D0&amp;u=accordus" sandbox="allow-top-navigation allow-top-navigation-by-user-activation allow-downloads allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-modals allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox allow-forms" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></div> </div>
  136. </div>
  137. </div>
  138. </div>
  139. </div>
  140. </section>
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  143. <div class="elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-f0a3a16" data-id="f0a3a16" data-element_type="column">
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  146. <div class="elementor-widget-container">
  147. <h4><a href="/talk-to-a-forester/">Contact us today</a> to discuss your property appraisal needs.</h4><p>The objective and intended use of timber and forestland appraisals helps to determine the appropriate scope of work for the assignment. We will assist you in deciding what is necessary to meet your valuation needs.</p> </div>
  148. </div>
  149. <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-7f64460 elementor-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-button" data-id="7f64460" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="button.default">
  150. <div class="elementor-widget-container">
  151. <div class="elementor-button-wrapper">
  152. <a class="elementor-button elementor-button-link elementor-size-sm" href="https://frc.us.com/talk-to-a-forester/">
  153. <span class="elementor-button-content-wrapper">
  154. <span class="elementor-button-text">TALK TO AN APPRAISER</span>
  155. </span>
  156. </a>
  157. </div>
  158. </div>
  159. </div>
  160. </div>
  161. </div>
  162. </div>
  163. </section>
  164. </div>
  165. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com/appraising-the-appraisal-process/">Appraising the Appraisal Process</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com">Forest Resource Consultants, Inc.</a>.</p>
  166. ]]></content:encoded>
  170. </item>
  171. <item>
  172. <title>Hunting Lease Basics for Landowners</title>
  173. <link>https://frc.us.com/hunting-lease-basics-for-landowners/</link>
  175. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Shae Hinson]]></dc:creator>
  176. <pubDate>Wed, 21 Jun 2023 19:45:09 +0000</pubDate>
  177. <category><![CDATA[Articles & White Papers]]></category>
  178. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://first-sailboat.flywheelsites.com/?p=5669</guid>
  179.  
  180. <description><![CDATA[<p>Hunting Lease Basics for Landowners Are you considering a hunting lease on your property? We have interviewed industry experts to gain an understanding of hunting lease basics and the landowner-hunter relationship. Lee Laechelt of the Alabama Forest Owners&#8217; Association (AFOA) says demand for hunting land has risen in recent years, creating more opportunities for landowners … <a href="https://frc.us.com/hunting-lease-basics-for-landowners/">Continue Reading &#8594;</a></p>
  181. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com/hunting-lease-basics-for-landowners/">Hunting Lease Basics for Landowners</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com">Forest Resource Consultants, Inc.</a>.</p>
  182. ]]></description>
  183. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div title="Page 1">
  184. <div>
  185. <div>
  186. <div>
  187. <h2>Hunting Lease Basics for Landowners</h2>
  188. <p>Are you considering a hunting lease on your property? We have interviewed industry experts to gain an understanding of hunting lease basics and the landowner-hunter relationship.</p>
  189. <p>Lee Laechelt of the Alabama Forest Owners&#8217; Association (AFOA) says demand for hunting land has risen in recent years, creating more opportunities for landowners to supplement their income with hunting leases.</p>
  190. </div>
  191. </div>
  192. </div>
  193. </div>
  194. <p class="p2">&#8220;We have a <a href="http://www.huntingland.bz/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span class="s1">website </span></a>with hunting tracts on it, but since COVID hit, demand has been so high that we post them and they immediately get taken,&#8221; Lee says.</p>
  195. <p class="p2">Hunters are actively seeking land. Landowners shouldn&#8217;t worry about finding hunt clubs. Instead, Lee says they should know what they want out of the relationship before advertising their property to avoid being overwhelmed when the phone calls start coming in.</p>
  196. <h3 class="p2">A mutual exchange</h3>
  197. <p class="p2">Brian Stone of <a href="https://frc.us.com/"><span class="s1">Forest Resource Consultants </span></a>(FRC) in Macon, Georgia says many landowners want to supplement their income with a hunting lease.</p>
  198. <p class="p2">&#8220;Both active and passive owners view the lease income stream as a way to offset property taxes. This is particularly true in Georgia. We have pretty high taxes on land when compared to adjoining states,&#8221; says Brian.</p>
  199. <p class="p2">Hunting lease prices vary based on several factors. Based on lease rate data collected and analyzed by FRC, the average Georgia hunting lease rate is around $15 per acre but ranges from as little as $2.00 to $35.00 per acre or more.</p>
  200. <p class="p2">Despite the monetary value of hunting leases, many property owners opt for a different type of exchange.</p>
  201. <p class="p2">&#8220;Some landowners don&#8217;t charge money but the hunter mows their grass all summer or maintains fences or roads,&#8221; Lee says. &#8220;Sometimes to elderly owners that sort of thing is worth more than money. Or some people list the properties at a price but then give 20 percent of the money back if the hunter fixes gates or paints fences. People have different ways of doing things. Payment doesn&#8217;t always have to be money, just some kind of beneficial exchange between hunters and landowners.&#8221;</p>
  202. <h3 class="p2">Evaluation</h3>
  203. <p class="p2">Several factors determine the price of a hunting lease.</p>
  204. <p class="p2">&#8220;Every property is unique. It&#8217;s just like real estate&#8211;it&#8217;s location-driven,&#8221; Brian says. &#8220;Properties that are more easily accessible to urban population centers tend to draw higher lease rates. But some of it has to do with the type and quality of the game. If you get into areas that have more farming, there is more forage for the deer. That increases interest from hunters.&#8221;</p>
  205. <p class="p2">He says deer and turkey are the most popular game animals in Georgia, though there are other opportunities, depending on property features.</p>
  206. <p class="p2">&#8220;If you have a property with a pond or river frontage then you have the opportunity for fishing year round. And ducks&#8211;if you have rivers or larger creeks running through your property there may be an opportunity for duck hunting,&#8221; Brian says.</p>
  207. <p class="p2">He and the team at FRC help clients determine lease values based on these factors along with lease rate data collected from throughout the state. In one statewide study, lease rates are classified by region.  In Georgia, those regions are the lower coastal plain, upper coastal plain, and piedmont.</p>
  208. <p class="p2">&#8220;We also have a million and a half acres of leases under management and we&#8217;ve completed our own internal studies to determine average lease rates utilizing that and data from other sources. That helps us determine market lease rates,&#8221; says Brian.</p>
  209. <p class="p2">Lee and his team at AFOA also look at data, including internal studies, but he says the results can be misleading.</p>
  210. <p class="p2">&#8220;Up until 2015, we had been doing a little survey which is available on our webpage. We asked how much landowners leased the different properties for,&#8221; says Lee. &#8220;We would usually get about 700 to 800 responses back, scattered all over the state. And some people leased it to somebody but didn&#8217;t charge any money. So the survey was giving us a misconception of what people were charging. For each person, it&#8217;s a little different in terms of the way they feel like they&#8217;ve been compensated.&#8221;</p>
  211. <h3 class="p2">Terms and conditions</h3>
  212. <p class="p2">You need to set rules and guidelines that will become the written agreement. Lee says landowners should know what they want before talking to hunters.</p>
  213. <p class="p2">&#8220;Landowners all have different ideas and rules,&#8221; he says. &#8220;They need to be put in an agreement before taking calls. It can overwhelm them in a hurry.&#8221;</p>
  214. <p class="p2">Here are some common terms to think about:</p>
  215. <ul>
  216. <li class="p2">How long is the lease term? Many leases are a year, but some last only a season.</li>
  217. <li class="p2">What game animal hunting is included?</li>
  218. <li class="p2">Can hunters take any animals? Or will you set size or age limits?</li>
  219. <li class="p2">Do you need to restrict hunting to certain parts of the property?</li>
  220. <li class="p2">Will you allow ATVs, tree stands, or improvements to the property?</li>
  221. <li class="p2">Can hunters use guns, or would you prefer archery equipment only?</li>
  222. </ul>
  223. <p class="p2">There is some room for creativity when designing a lease agreement.</p>
  224. <p class="p2">&#8220;You can absolutely design it to fit your needs, but you do have to keep in mind what game is on your property and what&#8217;s popular in your region for hunting,&#8221; Brian says. &#8220;In Georgia and throughout our operational footprint in the southeastern United States, I would say deer and turkey are the two most popular, with fall to winter and winter to spring seasons. The leases generally are year-long, but occasionally we&#8217;ll have folks who want to exclude certain seasons. The landowner may be a turkey hunter who is willing to give up the remainder of the year for hunting other game.&#8221;</p>
  225. <p class="p2">No matter what terms you decide to include, you need to put the agreement in writing. FRC and other management firms provide lease agreements to their clients. However, you should consult a lawyer if going the DIY route. &#8220;You only have to do it the first time unless something dramatically changes,&#8221; Lee says.</p>
  226. <h3 class="p2">Management styles</h3>
  227. <p class="p2">Another decision you need to make is whether to manage the hunting lease yourself or hire a consulting service to handle the details.</p>
  228. <p class="p2">Lee&#8217;s organization, the Alabama Forest Owners&#8217; Association, support members who manage their own leases. The Association provides educational resources and lists of available hunting land on its website. Members can access a group liability insurance policy (more on that in a minute). But AFOA doesn&#8217;t advise on lease agreements or manage the landowner-hunter relationship. This style is a good fit for landowners who want to be hands-on.</p>
  229. <p class="p2">Alternatively, management companies like Forest Resource Consultants handle all of the details on the client&#8217;s behalf. FRC&#8217;s subsidiary, Hunt Solutions, LLC provides landowners with lease administration services and manages the relationship with hunt clubs. They take payments and field phone calls, troubleshooting any issues.</p>
  230. <p class="p2">&#8220;We handle the lease so that our owners can be hands-off. They don&#8217;t have to have regular conversations with the hunt clubs every time a gate&#8217;s not locked or something happens on the property,&#8221; Brian says. &#8220;They&#8217;re not receiving calls with complaints from the club. That comes to Hunt Solutions and we&#8217;ll then work to answers those questions.&#8221;</p>
  231. <p class="p2">Consulting groups can vary widely in the services they offer and fees they charge, but it may be a worthwhile investment for landowners who want to focus on other things while earning passive income.</p>
  232. <h3 class="p2">Ensure safety</h3>
  233. <p class="p2">Okay, you say, this all sounds great, but what if I lease to a hunt club and something terrible happens? Like someone wrecks a four-wheeler or falls out of a tree stand? You&#8217;re right to be concerned. You don&#8217;t have to dig too deep to find lawsuits between hunters and landowners. This is where we remind you to work with a management company that provides lawyer-drafted lease agreements, or if you&#8217;re handling the details yourself, hire a lawyer to create the lease agreement.</p>
  234. <p class="p2"><strong>If you take away nothing else, remember: make sure you&#8217;re covered with a hunting liability insurance policy.</strong></p>
  235. <p class="p2">While either party–the landowner or the hunt club–can carry liability insurance, many landowners require the hunt club to foot the bill and list that requirement in the lease agreement. And landowners commonly insist on proof of insurance. Whoever pays for it, you must understand all of the terms and address any exclusions or limitations.</p>
  236. <p class="p2">Several companies offer liability insurance specifically designed for hunting leases. AFOA offers a <span class="s1"><a href="http://www.huntinginsurance.bz/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">group policy</a> </span>for their members, who can pass the cost on to hunt clubs. FRC requires that all clubs hold a policy with a <a href="https://www.apoutdoorinsurance.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AssuredPartners.</a></p>
  237. <p class="p2">Don&#8217;t let fear of worst-case scenarios stop you from pursuing a hunting lease, but do try to prevent accidents on your property and prioritize a good liability insurance policy.</p>
  238. <h3 class="p2">Take the next step</h3>
  239. <p class="p2">While we’ve covered the basics on hunting leases, there is much more to learn if you decide this is a good fit for your property. Reach out to land management companies like Forest Resource Consultants or join a landowner association like the Alabama Forest Owners’ Association for more information</p>
  240. <p>&nbsp;</p>
  241. <div class="bsc-shortcode bsc-infobox box-green"><div class="infobox-content"></p>
  242. <h4><a href="/talk-to-a-forester/">Contact us today</a> to discuss the possibilities for leasing your property.</h4>
  243. <p>Hunting leases certainly offer an opportunity to generate additional income from your property, but management of these hunting leases can be a hassle on some landowners. Allow us remove the burden and make it easy for you.</p>
  244. <p><center><a href="/talk-to-a-forester/" class="button button-size-medium orange">Talk to a Forester</a></center><br />
  245. </div></div>
  246. <p>&nbsp;</p>
  247. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com/hunting-lease-basics-for-landowners/">Hunting Lease Basics for Landowners</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com">Forest Resource Consultants, Inc.</a>.</p>
  248. ]]></content:encoded>
  252. </item>
  253. <item>
  254. <title>Succeeding with Succession</title>
  255. <link>https://frc.us.com/succeeding-with-succession/</link>
  257. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Shae Hinson]]></dc:creator>
  258. <pubDate>Mon, 20 Mar 2023 15:14:02 +0000</pubDate>
  259. <category><![CDATA[Articles & White Papers]]></category>
  260. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://first-sailboat.flywheelsites.com/?p=5520</guid>
  261.  
  262. <description><![CDATA[<p>Succeeding with Succession Family businesses in transition have only a 30 percent probability of successful transfer to the second generation. With better planning and communication, you can boost those odds. This article was originally published in the March-April 2023 Forest Landowners magazine. Andy and David will be conducting a seminar on the topic of Family … <a href="https://frc.us.com/succeeding-with-succession/">Continue Reading &#8594;</a></p>
  263. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com/succeeding-with-succession/">Succeeding with Succession</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com">Forest Resource Consultants, Inc.</a>.</p>
  264. ]]></description>
  265. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2>Succeeding with Succession</h2>
  266. <p>Family businesses in transition have only a 30 percent probability of successful transfer to the second generation. With better planning and communication, you can boost those odds.</p>
  267. <div style="position: relative; padding-top: max(60%,326px); height: 0; width: 100%;"><iframe style="position: absolute; border: none; width: 100%; height: 100%; left: 0; right: 0; top: 0; bottom: 0;" src="https://e.issuu.com/embed.html?backgroundColor=%230f7b32&amp;d=fla_articlemarapr2023&amp;hideIssuuLogo=true&amp;hideShareButton=true&amp;u=accordus" sandbox="allow-top-navigation allow-top-navigation-by-user-activation allow-downloads allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-modals allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox allow-forms" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></div>
  268. <p>This article was originally published in the March-April 2023 <a href="https://www.forestlandowners.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Forest Landowners</a> magazine. Andy and David will be conducting a seminar on the topic of Family Forest Business Transition at the upcoming <a href="https://www.forestlandowners.com/conference/2023seminar/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">National Conference of Private Forest Landowners</a> in Nashville.</p>
  269. <div class="bsc-shortcode bsc-infobox box-green"><div class="infobox-content"></p>
  270. <h4><a href="/talk-to-a-forester/">Contact us to set up a free consultation</a>.</h4>
  271. <p>Let&#8217;s discuss how we can assist in building a plan that fits the vision and mission of your family business that helps you avoid transitional pitfalls.</p>
  272. <p><center><a href="/talk-to-a-forester/" class="button button-size-medium orange">Talk to an Expert</a></center><br />
  273. </div></div>
  274. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com/succeeding-with-succession/">Succeeding with Succession</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com">Forest Resource Consultants, Inc.</a>.</p>
  275. ]]></content:encoded>
  279. </item>
  280. <item>
  281. <title>Forest Technology Changes in the Information Age</title>
  282. <link>https://frc.us.com/forest-technology-changes-in-the-information-age/</link>
  284. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Paula Smith]]></dc:creator>
  285. <pubDate>Thu, 15 Dec 2022 06:16:18 +0000</pubDate>
  286. <category><![CDATA[Articles & White Papers]]></category>
  287. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://first-sailboat.flywheelsites.com/?p=5392</guid>
  288.  
  289. <description><![CDATA[<p>Forest Technology Changes in the Information Age The timeline of human civilization is discussed and understood by analyzing and categorizing time periods defined by major moments in history. Every historical period has integrally changed the way society has perceived, interacted with, and understood the world. Since the mid-1700s, these periods have been characterized by technological innovation. These innovations have … <a href="https://frc.us.com/forest-technology-changes-in-the-information-age/">Continue Reading &#8594;</a></p>
  290. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com/forest-technology-changes-in-the-information-age/">Forest Technology Changes in the Information Age</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com">Forest Resource Consultants, Inc.</a>.</p>
  291. ]]></description>
  292. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2>Forest Technology Changes in the Information Age</h2>
  293. <p>The timeline of human civilization is discussed and understood by analyzing and categorizing time periods defined by major moments in history. Every historical period has integrally changed the way society has perceived, interacted with, and understood the world. Since the mid-1700s, these periods have been characterized by technological innovation. These innovations have led us to where we find ourselves today: the Information Age.</p>
  294. <p>While there are some holdovers from preceding eras such as the Renaissance and Industrial Revolution, technologies developed in the Information Age affect virtually every aspect of our lives. The exponential growth of information technology in the digital era has given us tools to answer questions that may have been difficult or even impossible to answer in the 20<sup>th</sup> century.</p>
  295. <p>Whether it’s understanding a business’s efficiency, a city’s crime trends, or a landowner’s timber inventory, we find ourselves asking one overriding question: what is this information worth? Ultimately, the answer differs depending on who you ask. Information that is worthless to one person may be essential to another. Even with these nuances, having access to such an immeasurable amount of information is invaluable to society and is a major driver of the 21<sup>st</sup> century economy.</p>
  296. <p>For more than 50 years, Forest Resource Consultants, Inc. (FRC) has helped landowners maintain property attribute data on well-managed and financially productive timberlands. As a consulting firm, we leverage individualized expertise and new technologies to collect and organize attribute data, utilize this data to seek and deliver solutions, and then maintain this information as property conditions change.</p>
  297. <p>While individualized expertise comes from our employees&#8217; diverse backgrounds, we must also stay up to date with emerging technologies. These new technologies offer exciting opportunities to improve the accuracy of our work product while also gaining process efficiency and improving our project delivery timeline. Some more recent emerging technologies include advancements in Forest Management Systems (FMS) and the use of <a href="https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/lidar.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LiDAR</a> to estimate standing timber inventory.</p>
  298. <p>FMSs are not new to the forestry industry. However, a system that integrates all forest attribute data and activities while easily adapting with emerging technologies has proven challenging. The ability for both foresters and clients to remotely access real-time FMS data from the field or their homes is a feat many industry participants are navigating. FRC is currently focused on developing systems that allow clients to view their ownership and operational data on-demand.</p>
  299. <p>Whether the client is taking a hands-on or hands-off approach, we strive to customize solutions that meet and exceed their overall expectations. For more hands-on clients, we are developing a dynamic forest management system that is easy to use, syncs with ESRI technology, and displays property and activity information in interactive dashboards. For less involved clients, our forest management system will ensure accurate and consistent data is maintained and available to support the development and execution of our client’s ownership goals.</p>
  300. <p>Another emerging forest technology is the use of drones equipped with LiDAR to estimate a property’s standing timber inventory. While LiDAR technology was first used by NASA in 1971 for aerospace applications in the Apollo 15 mission, its use in the commercial and consumer markets did not begin to emerge until the late 1980s as GPS technology became more widely available.</p>
  301. <p>Even at that time, its usage was extremely limited. The cost associated with the use of LiDAR is currently its biggest limiting factor. However, the technology will continue to advance and the cost of implementing a LiDAR inventory strategy will likely become more economical with time. The potential applications for LiDAR are extensive, and its use in forestry is still in its infancy. Thus, only time will tell if LiDAR becomes a tool that is widely utilized in our industry.</p>
  302. <p>The forestry industry has historically been slow to adapt to technological change. This is due to the exorbitant costs of adapting to new technologies as well as the ever-evolving nature of technology that makes business investments much riskier. Nevertheless, the early stages of a developing technology are often the most opportune time to push for research and experimentation. When successful, technological gains lead to increased efficiency and improved accuracy that result in better overall financial performance.</p>
  303. <p>&nbsp;</p>
  304. <div class="bsc-shortcode bsc-infobox box-green"><div class="infobox-content"></p>
  305. <p>&nbsp;</p>
  306. <h4><a href="/talk-to-a-forester/">Contact us today!</a> <strong>We can help you develop a well-informed management plan that will achieve your timberland ownership goals.</strong></h4>
  307. <p>&nbsp;</p>
  308. <p><center><a href="/talk-to-a-forester/" class="button button-size-medium orange">Talk to a Forester</a></center><br />
  309. </div></div>
  310. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com/forest-technology-changes-in-the-information-age/">Forest Technology Changes in the Information Age</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com">Forest Resource Consultants, Inc.</a>.</p>
  311. ]]></content:encoded>
  315. </item>
  316. <item>
  317. <title>Federal and State Cost Share Programs</title>
  318. <link>https://frc.us.com/federal-and-state-cost-share-programs/</link>
  320. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Brian Stone]]></dc:creator>
  321. <pubDate>Wed, 28 Sep 2022 14:23:31 +0000</pubDate>
  322. <category><![CDATA[Articles & White Papers]]></category>
  323. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://first-sailboat.flywheelsites.com/?p=5311</guid>
  324.  
  325. <description><![CDATA[<p>Did you know the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), USDA Farm Services Agency (FSA), and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) offer several cost share and incentive programs to help landowners meet their forestry management goals? How do Federal and State Cost Share Programs work? Stemming from the United States’ long historical support of … <a href="https://frc.us.com/federal-and-state-cost-share-programs/">Continue Reading &#8594;</a></p>
  326. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com/federal-and-state-cost-share-programs/">Federal and State Cost Share Programs</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com">Forest Resource Consultants, Inc.</a>.</p>
  327. ]]></description>
  328. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="font-weight: 400;">Did you know the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), USDA Farm Services Agency (FSA), and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) offer several cost share and incentive programs to help landowners meet their forestry management goals?</p>
  329. <h4>How do Federal and State Cost Share Programs work?</h4>
  330. <p style="font-weight: 400;">Stemming from the United States’ long historical support of agricultural subsidies, these funds are made possible through The Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008, also known as the 2008 U.S. Farm Bill. In Georgia, the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) administers these federal programs along with a few other state funded programs. We, at Forest Resource Consultants, Inc. (FRC), can assist our private clients in learning about and carrying out these cost share and incentive programs. Several federal and state programs are summarized below for your review.</p>
  331. <p style="font-weight: 400;"><strong><u>USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)</u></strong></p>
  332. <p style="font-weight: 400;"><em><u>Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP)</u></em>: Available to all crop producers. Approved forestlands must meet guidelines set by the NRCS, including certification by the Tree Farm System, Green Tag, Smart Wood, Forest Stewardship Council, or Sustainable Forestry Initiative. Approved forestry practices promote soil, water, and air quality as well as other natural resources on their land.</p>
  333. <p style="font-weight: 400;"><em><u>Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP)</u></em>: Helps landowners implement various silvicultural practices that promote forest growth and improve environmental quality. Eligible forestry improvement practices include prescribed burning, chemical and mechanical site preparation, tree planting, thinning (pre-commercial and commercial), road improvements, and wildlife management practices.</p>
  334. <p style="font-weight: 400;"><em><u>Healthy Forests Reserve Program (HFRP)</u></em>: Enhances and improves threatened and endangered species recovery, promotes biological diversity, and increases carbon sequestration.</p>
  335. <p style="font-weight: 400;"><em><u>Wildlife Incentives for Nongame and Game Species (Project WINGS)</u></em>: Aids landowners in managing rights-of-way that promote wildlife management. Eligible activities include chemical treatment, planting of native plants, and the use of disking or mowing to promote native vegetation growth.</p>
  336. <p>&nbsp;</p>
  337. <p style="font-weight: 400;"><strong><u>USDA Farm Services Agency (FSA)</u></strong></p>
  338. <p style="font-weight: 400;"><em><u>Conservation Reserve Program (CRP)</u></em>: Designed to remove highly erodible cropland out of production. The program encourages permanent cover crop planting for soil stabilization. Commonly covered activities include planting of pine, hardwood, and grass, prescribed burning, establishment of and enhancement to wildlife habitats and corridors, and stream management buffers.</p>
  339. <p style="font-weight: 400;"><em><u>Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP)</u></em>: Available to landowners affected by natural disasters, this program focuses on natural resource restoration and land use impeded by natural disasters. Land eligibility is determined by the county FSA assessing the type and extent of damage. Eligible activities include mechanical clearing, herbicide applications, purchasing of seedlings, and reforestation activities.</p>
  340. <p>&nbsp;</p>
  341. <p style="font-weight: 400;"><strong><u>U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)</u></strong></p>
  342. <p style="font-weight: 400;"><em><u>Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program (PFW)</u></em>: Available to landowners seeking habitat restoration for longleaf, stream management zones, and threatened/endangered species.</p>
  343. <p style="font-weight: 400;">A recent phone conversation with Matthew O&#8217;Conner, GFC Area 7 County Forester, revealed cost share and incentive programs are quite selective and undergo a vetting process.  Applications are ranked against program criteria.</p>
  344. <p style="font-weight: 400;">Underserved producers, including socially disadvantaged, beginning producers, and those with limited resources, are more likely to be selected. Underserved groups can also receive advance payments to implement approved conservation practices. Although cost share and incentive programs are extremely competitive, there are several ways to increase your chances of approval.</p>
  345. <p style="font-weight: 400;">Apply early.  Programs like EQIP allow applications to roll-over and are good for two-year periods when approved for mid-management activities like prescribed burning and chemical release. This will give the landowner increased odds of approval through two application periods to secure funding for the prescribed mid-management activity. However, for reforestation costs covered by EQIP, the timber must be harvested before a program application and written plan can be created.</p>
  346. <p style="font-weight: 400;">O&#8217;Conner encourages landowners to apply to multiple programs at a time. The EQIP and SPB programs offer support for similar forestry-related applications – chemical site prep, reforestation, seedling costs – but while you may apply for more than one program, you can only accept/be rewarded with one cost share or incentive. The SPB program does not allow roll-over applications. Each year, the applicant will need to reapply.</p>
  347. <p>&nbsp;</p>
  348. <p style="font-weight: 400;"><strong><u>Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC)</u></strong></p>
  349. <p style="font-weight: 400;"><em><u>Invasive Plant Control Program (IPCP)</u></em>: Aids private, non-industrial landowners in the eradication of nonnative, invasive plants.  Herbicides, mechanical treatment, or a combination of both are the forestry practices covered. Callery pear, chinaberry, Chinese tallow tree, Japanese climbing fern, and privet top Georgia&#8217;s current list of invasive species.</p>
  350. <p style="font-weight: 400;"><em><u>Southern Pine Beetle Cost Share Program (SPB)</u></em>: Helps landowners implement various silvicultural practices to suppress and prevent SPB and promote healthy, beetle-resistant forests. Non-commercial thinning, pine release, and prescribed burning are eligible management activities.</p>
  351. <p style="font-weight: 400;"><em><u>Huber “Trees for Georgia” Program</u></em>: Aids qualified landowners with the purchase of GFC seedlings in the following counties: Banks, Barrow, Clarke, Elbert, Franklin, Greene, Gwinnett, Habersham, Hall, Hart, Jackson, Lincoln, Lumpkin, Madison, Morgan, Oconee, Oglethorpe, Stephens, Taliaferro, Walton, White, and Wilkes.</p>
  352. <p style="font-weight: 400;"><em><u>One Tree Planted – Reforestation Program</u></em>: Designed to assist landowners in North Georgia with reforestation expenses.</p>
  353. <p style="font-weight: 400;"><em><u>Shortleaf Pine &amp; Oak Restoration in the Georgia Cumberlands Cost Share Project:</u></em> Offered to landowners seeking to promote shortleaf pine and oak ecosystems. Focused on North Georgia counties, the program seeks forest improvement activities such as prescribed burning, tree planting, chemical applications, and thinning.</p>
  354. <p style="font-weight: 400;"><em><u>South Georgia Landscape Restoration Cost Share Project</u></em>: Eligible for landowners in 19 counties in southern Georgia including, Appling, Bryan, Camden, Chatham, Decatur, Evans, Glynn, Grady, Liberty, Long, Macon, Marion, McIntosh, Mitchell, Talbot, Tattnall, Taylor, Toombs, and Wayne. A broad spectrum of approved forest activities includes prescribed burning, chemical application, habitat improvement thinning, and forestry mowing.</p>
  355. <p>&nbsp;</p>
  356. <p style="font-weight: 400;"><strong><u>FRC&#8217;s Assistance with Cost Share Implementation</u></strong></p>
  357. <p style="font-weight: 400;">At FRC, we have many tools available within our forestry management arsenal to promote forest stewardship and sustainability practices that help landowners meet their goals. As we foster relationships with private landowners, we are mindful of cost-effective forestry management prescriptions and direct them to educational resources on cost share and incentive program availability.</p>
  358. <p style="font-weight: 400;">Once a landowner’s cost share application has been approved, we assist in implementing the contractually required forestry activities. We encourage you to learn more about these federal and state cost share programs by visiting the <a href="https://southernforests.org/rural/cost-share-programs" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Southern Group of State Foresters</a> and the <a href="https://gatrees.org/forest-management-conservation/cost-share-incentive-programs/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Georgia Forestry Commission</a> cost share pages.</p>
  359. <p>&nbsp;</p>
  360. <div class="bsc-shortcode bsc-infobox box-green"><div class="infobox-content"></p>
  361. <p>&nbsp;</p>
  362. <h4><a href="/talk-to-a-forester/">Contact us today!</a> <strong>We can help you make the best decisions when managing your timberland.</strong></h4>
  363. <p>&nbsp;</p>
  364. <p><center><a href="/talk-to-a-forester/" class="button button-size-medium orange">Talk to a Forester</a></center><br />
  365. </div></div>
  366. <p>&nbsp;</p>
  367. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com/federal-and-state-cost-share-programs/">Federal and State Cost Share Programs</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com">Forest Resource Consultants, Inc.</a>.</p>
  368. ]]></content:encoded>
  372. </item>
  373. <item>
  374. <title>Drone Utilization in Forestry</title>
  375. <link>https://frc.us.com/drone-utilization-in-forestry/</link>
  377. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Brian Stone]]></dc:creator>
  378. <pubDate>Thu, 02 Jun 2022 17:49:07 +0000</pubDate>
  379. <category><![CDATA[Articles & White Papers]]></category>
  380. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://first-sailboat.flywheelsites.com/?p=5135</guid>
  381.  
  382. <description><![CDATA[<p>Drone Utilization in Forestry “There is more than one way to skin a cat.&#8221; This expression can easily be applied when discussing today&#8217;s forest operations. Advancements in technology and connectivity have led to the expansion of the forest management toolbox. One rapidly evolving addition in forestry technology is the use of drones for many woods-related … <a href="https://frc.us.com/drone-utilization-in-forestry/">Continue Reading &#8594;</a></p>
  383. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com/drone-utilization-in-forestry/">Drone Utilization in Forestry</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com">Forest Resource Consultants, Inc.</a>.</p>
  384. ]]></description>
  385. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2>Drone Utilization in Forestry</h2>
  386. <p>“There is more than one way to skin a cat.&#8221; This expression can easily be applied when discussing today&#8217;s forest operations. Advancements in technology and connectivity have led to the expansion of the forest management toolbox. One rapidly evolving addition in forestry technology is the use of drones for many woods-related activities. While it’s hard to beat a morning walk in the woods, the dog days of summer are quickly approaching.</p>
  387. <p>For this reason, it’s often more appealing to stay at the truck and let the drone do the work. While there are many jobs that can only be accomplished with boots on the ground, the number of tasks drones can complete is growing exponentially. A few activities where drones are being utilized include &#8220;touring” real estate tracts, performing silvicultural activity checks, completing pest and storm damage surveys, and initiating land security checks.</p>
  388. <p>Depending on the needs of the operator, drone sizes and capabilities vary. Some drones weigh less than half a pound and can fly for 5 to 7 minutes on a 20-minute charge. Others can fly up to an elevation of 8,200 feet at speeds of 40 miles per hour while carrying 13 pounds of cargo.</p>
  389. <p>In forestry, many drone pilots value battery life and camera quality over drone speed and size. Battery life is important since many flights require long periods of airtime. High-resolution cameras ensure captured images preserve the most detailed property attributes.</p>
  390. <p>Most folks who have recently been in the market for a home have noticed the increase in “virtual tour” options. Drones became invaluable in allowing people to be socially distant while viewing properties during the pandemic. With drone technology, a potential buyer can now take a virtual tour of a <a href="https://frc.us.com/">timberland property</a> from the comfort of their own home! Like with residential properties, drones allow real estate agents to highlight property features without scheduling meetings in the woods. The agent can also show property features that are not easily accessible on the ground.</p>
  391. <p>Many field forestry tasks often require extensive walking. With the use of drones, a forester can more efficiently complete post-harvest silvicultural inspections. Flying the tract to survey green-up can assist in establishing chemical treatment boundaries and determining the proper application rates.</p>
  392. <p>A recently sprayed tract is more easily inspected to confirm job satisfaction with no missed areas, including those far-away corners. Finally, flying a drone along a freshly planted row of trees provides a bird’s-eye view of the seedlings and allows the forester to make a final assessment of the planting quality.</p>
  393. <p>Checking a tract for pest or storm damage can be a long, sad, and sometimes dangerous walk. While it won’t be less discouraging to find heavy mortality from pine beetles, drones give the forester the ability to inspect the areas quickly. Storm damage can create logistical issues and safety concerns in the aftermath of a hurricane or tornado, leaving a tract inaccessible from the ground. In this case, drones can rise above the canopy so damage can be evaluated and a salvage plan developed.</p>
  394. <p>Finally, landowners want to keep their property secure from trespassers. Poachers, squatters, and even well-intentioned recreationalists can create liability issues and cause long-term damage to a <a href="https://forisk.com/blog/2023/06/20/north-americas-top-timberland-owners-and-managers-2023-update/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">property</a>. Routine drone flights allow a forester to safely check a property without confrontation.</p>
  395. <p>These inspections can often uncover new trails or roads, unattended vehicles or ATVs, or even makeshift campsites. With drone observations in-hand, the forester can address issues more quickly without driving every road and searching every corner of the property.</p>
  396. <p>Drone usage in forestry improves efficiency, safety, and accessibility. Whether the user is employed by a consultant or a larger timber company, drones help complete their jobs more quickly while providing detailed field observations. Going forward, emerging technologies will expand drone applications and simplify a forester&#8217;s daily field tasks.</p>
  397. <div class="bsc-shortcode bsc-infobox box-green"><div class="infobox-content"></p>
  398. <p>&nbsp;</p>
  399. <h4><a href="/talk-to-a-forester/">Contact us today</a> <strong>so we can help you make the best decisions when managing your timberland.</strong></h4>
  400. <p>&nbsp;</p>
  401. <p><center><a href="/talk-to-a-forester/" class="button button-size-medium orange">Talk to a Forester</a></center><br />
  402. </div></div>
  403. <p>&nbsp;</p>
  404. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com/drone-utilization-in-forestry/">Drone Utilization in Forestry</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com">Forest Resource Consultants, Inc.</a>.</p>
  405. ]]></content:encoded>
  409. </item>
  410. <item>
  411. <title>Billy Lancaster Forestry Youth Camp</title>
  412. <link>https://frc.us.com/billy-lancaster-forestry-youth-camp/</link>
  414. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Shae Hinson]]></dc:creator>
  415. <pubDate>Tue, 08 Mar 2022 19:23:40 +0000</pubDate>
  416. <category><![CDATA[Articles & White Papers]]></category>
  417. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://first-sailboat.flywheelsites.com/?p=4914</guid>
  418.  
  419. <description><![CDATA[<p>Billy Lancaster Forestry Youth Camp Back in 1988, my father, Billy Lancaster, decided to start a forestry camp for young kids. He went to one when he was a kid and wanted today’s youth to have the same opportunity he had at their age. With the help of some of his good friends who were … <a href="https://frc.us.com/billy-lancaster-forestry-youth-camp/">Continue Reading &#8594;</a></p>
  420. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com/billy-lancaster-forestry-youth-camp/">Billy Lancaster Forestry Youth Camp</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com">Forest Resource Consultants, Inc.</a>.</p>
  421. ]]></description>
  422. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2>Billy Lancaster Forestry Youth Camp</h2>
  423. <p>Back in 1988, my father, Billy Lancaster, decided to start a forestry camp for young kids. He went to one when he was a kid and wanted today’s youth to have the same opportunity he had at their age. With the help of some of his good friends who were also in the <a href="https://frc.us.com/">forestry business</a>, they raised funds, set the curriculum, got volunteers, and set out finding students for the five-day camp. They wanted to create a place where students could learn about how forestry affects their everyday life. The founders also wanted youth to realize forestry was way more than just cutting down trees. Since that first camp in 1988, kids from all over Georgia have participated.</p>
  424. <p><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-5595 alignright" src="https://gatrees.org//www/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/IMG_2201-300x200.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" srcset="https://gatrees.org//www/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/IMG_2201-300x200.jpg 300w, https://gatrees.org//www/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/IMG_2201-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https://gatrees.org//www/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/IMG_2201-768x512.jpg 768w, https://gatrees.org//www/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/IMG_2201-200x133.jpg 200w, https://gatrees.org//www/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/IMG_2201.jpg 1355w" alt="Billy Lancaster Forestry Youth Camp" width="300" height="200" title="Billy Lancaster Forestry Youth Camp"></p>
  425. <p>Every summer, my family goes to the FFA Center in Covington, Georgia to help out with the camp. Some of my best memories include my parents and all of the other volunteers giving their time to support it. The volunteers are passionate about forestry and teaching it to future generations. It is rare that so many people within different fields of the same profession can come together to teach and help future foresters grow and learn.</p>
  426. <p><img decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-5600 alignleft" src="https://gatrees.org//www/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Preston_Tree-Heights-300x200.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" srcset="https://gatrees.org//www/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Preston_Tree-Heights-300x200.jpg 300w, https://gatrees.org//www/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Preston_Tree-Heights-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https://gatrees.org//www/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Preston_Tree-Heights-768x512.jpg 768w, https://gatrees.org//www/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Preston_Tree-Heights-200x133.jpg 200w, https://gatrees.org//www/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Preston_Tree-Heights.jpg 1355w" alt="Billy Lancaster Forestry Youth Camp" width="300" height="200" title="Billy Lancaster Forestry Youth Camp"></p>
  427. <p>These professionals use their knowledge and skills to teach the kids about logging, paper making, how to use forestry tools, how much a tree is worth, how to calculate distances, and so much more. Every year a favorite activity is when the campers get to experience an active logging operation. In addition, the campers always enjoy getting to venture away from the FFA Center to visit a tree farm.</p>
  428. <p><img decoding="async" class=" wp-image-5599 alignright" src="https://gatrees.org//www/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Lancaster_Buckelew-Field-Day-Fire-Shield-300x200.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 344px) 100vw, 344px" srcset="https://gatrees.org//www/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Lancaster_Buckelew-Field-Day-Fire-Shield-300x200.jpg 300w, https://gatrees.org//www/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Lancaster_Buckelew-Field-Day-Fire-Shield-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https://gatrees.org//www/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Lancaster_Buckelew-Field-Day-Fire-Shield-768x512.jpg 768w, https://gatrees.org//www/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Lancaster_Buckelew-Field-Day-Fire-Shield-200x133.jpg 200w, https://gatrees.org//www/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Lancaster_Buckelew-Field-Day-Fire-Shield.jpg 1280w" alt="Billy Lancaster Forestry Youth Camp" width="344" height="229" title="Billy Lancaster Forestry Youth Camp"></p>
  429. <p>At forestry camp, campers’ knowledge of forestry grows tremendously over the course of five days. On the first day, campers make paper by hand from pulp. By the fifth day, campers have an understanding of what it took for a tree to be made into that piece of paper. By having so many volunteers who are professionals in the field of forestry supporting the curriculum of the camp, campers are exposed to an incredible variety of what the field of forestry has to offer as a future profession.</p>
  430. <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft wp-image-5596 " src="https://gatrees.org//www/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/IMG_2317-1024x682.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 402px) 100vw, 402px" srcset="https://gatrees.org//www/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/IMG_2317-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https://gatrees.org//www/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/IMG_2317-300x200.jpg 300w, https://gatrees.org//www/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/IMG_2317-768x512.jpg 768w, https://gatrees.org//www/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/IMG_2317-200x133.jpg 200w, https://gatrees.org//www/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/IMG_2317.jpg 1355w" alt="Billy Lancaster Forestry Youth Camp" width="402" height="268" title="Billy Lancaster Forestry Youth Camp"></p>
  431. <p>My wife, mother, and I look forward to helping out with the camp every year. I like talking to the kids and finding out what they’re into and where they’re from. Some campers have no idea what forestry is, and some grew up in the industry as I did. All of the campers are surprised at how much forestry affects their daily lives. As a father of two children under the age of two, I look forward to the growth the camp will experience and the memories my own children will one day make as campers as well.</p>
  432. <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-5598 alignright" src="https://gatrees.org//www/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Lancaster-Tree-Measurement-18-300x200.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" srcset="https://gatrees.org//www/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Lancaster-Tree-Measurement-18-300x200.jpg 300w, https://gatrees.org//www/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Lancaster-Tree-Measurement-18-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https://gatrees.org//www/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Lancaster-Tree-Measurement-18-768x512.jpg 768w, https://gatrees.org//www/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Lancaster-Tree-Measurement-18-200x133.jpg 200w, https://gatrees.org//www/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Lancaster-Tree-Measurement-18.jpg 1280w" alt="Billy Lancaster Forestry Youth Camp" width="300" height="200" title="Billy Lancaster Forestry Youth Camp"></p>
  433. <p>Due to COVID, the camp has not taken place in the past two years, but this year, this year, we’re excited to welcome campers back to forestry camp. It will be held July 10-14 at the FFA-FCCLA Center in Covington, Georgia, and is open to both boys and girls, ages 12 and 13. Over the past couple of years, we have worked diligently to develop a website to better represent the camp’s focus and mission.</p>
  434. <p>By visiting the website, <a href="https://www.billylancastercamp.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">https://www.billylancastercamp.com/</a>, parents can register their children for camp, as well as keep up with all of the camp’s latest news.</p>
  435. <p>&nbsp;</p>
  436. <p>This blog was originally posted on the <a href="https://gatrees.org/lancaster-forestry-youth-camp/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Georgia Forestry Commission Blog.</a></p>
  437. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com/billy-lancaster-forestry-youth-camp/">Billy Lancaster Forestry Youth Camp</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com">Forest Resource Consultants, Inc.</a>.</p>
  438. ]]></content:encoded>
  442. </item>
  443. <item>
  444. <title>Enhancing Wildlife Habitat with Planned Forest Management</title>
  445. <link>https://frc.us.com/enhancing-wildlife-habitat/</link>
  447. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Brian Stone]]></dc:creator>
  448. <pubDate>Thu, 26 Aug 2021 03:30:23 +0000</pubDate>
  449. <category><![CDATA[Articles & White Papers]]></category>
  450. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://first-sailboat.flywheelsites.com/?p=4346</guid>
  451.  
  452. <description><![CDATA[<p>Enhancing Wildlife Habitat with Planned Forest Management As a young biologist working for a large timber company, I quickly learned a forester does not need a wildlife biologist to help manage a forest. However, a wildlife biologist does need a forester to accomplish wildlife objectives. Yes, a wildlife biologist can recommend doe harvests and the … <a href="https://frc.us.com/enhancing-wildlife-habitat/">Continue Reading &#8594;</a></p>
  453. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com/enhancing-wildlife-habitat/">Enhancing Wildlife Habitat with Planned Forest Management</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com">Forest Resource Consultants, Inc.</a>.</p>
  454. ]]></description>
  455. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2>Enhancing Wildlife Habitat with Planned Forest Management</h2>
  456. <p>As a young biologist working for a large timber company, I quickly learned a forester does not need a wildlife biologist to help manage a forest. However, a wildlife biologist does need a forester to accomplish wildlife objectives. Yes, a wildlife biologist can recommend doe harvests and the protection of young bucks, food plots and even supplemental feeding. While all of that is important, it doesn’t come close to the impact of managing the overall habitat. Therefore, nothing can enhance wildlife habitat like a properly executed <a href="https://frc.us.com/tx-timberland-management/">timberland management plan</a>.</p>
  457. <p>You must consider home range when discussing habitat. Depending on the species and quality of the habitat, home ranges can vary in size from a few acres to thousands of acres. Obviously, big game has larger home ranges than small game. Also, migrant birds have larger home ranges than ground-dwelling birds. The species sets the outer boundaries of the home range, but the quality of the habitat sets the inner boundaries.</p>
  458. <p>Look at the ever-popular Northern Bobwhite, or Gentleman Bob, a non-migratory ground dwelling gamebird. Most research agrees that 40 acres of decent habitat is their average home range. However, their home range can vary from <a href="https://frc.us.com/land-for-sale/">10 to more than 200 acres, depending on the quality of habitat</a>.</p>
  459. <p>In the southern pine forests, different critters prefer different homes with every animal species having a preferred home range within a specific habitat. For example, neo-tropical migrant birds often prefer open, freshly cleared, or recently planted pine plantations. This type of habitat represents the first successional stage with an abundance of bare ground interpreted with grasses and smaller shrubs and, of course, planted pine seedlings.</p>
  460. <p>As these stands mature, they become more inviting to other suites of species that prefer a more enclosed forest canopy. Pine stands around age fifteen have enclosed or mostly enclosed canopies with heavy shade on the forest floor. This type of habitat provides good cover for both large and small game but relatively little food. Therefore, it is of great benefit to wildlife when <a href="https://frc.us.com/">forest managers</a> implement the first thinning harvest in pine stands.</p>
  461. <p>As a wildlife biologist who enjoys <a href="https://frc.us.com/how-do-i-lease-my-property-for-hunting-and-recreation/">hunting deer, turkey, and birds</a>, I love first and second thinning harvests. These activities open the tree canopy exposing daylight to the forest floor. All sorts of legumes and forbs flourish in the newfound sunlight, creating a buffet for species ranging from butterflies and bees to turkey and deer. On occasion, some pine stands become overstocked with unwanted hardwood competition prohibiting the pines and wildlife from flourishing. Many foresters will apply a ground application of herbicide in these instances.</p>
  462. <p>Prescribed fire often enhances the effects of this treatment. Most folks unfamiliar with this practice often react unfavorably, as they see nothing but dead brush beneath the pine canopy. However, this condition is only temporary as quality forage and forbs will take over the newly available space. With or without fire, the reduction of understory brush species improves wildlife habitat as well as enhances growing conditions for planted pine.</p>
  463. <p>Open conditions following a thin will last for several years until the canopy, again, closes as the trees age and grow taller. This is when a second thinning harvest is often completed and the miracle of new forage growth begins again.</p>
  464. <p>The circle of life is never so evident as when watching the rotation of pine plantations under proper management. When the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">forest</a> reaches 25 to 30 years of age, it is often time to conduct the final harvest. At this point, the entire stand is harvested with exception of streamside management zones and other buffers. The site is then prepared for another planting. Once the trees are planted, the cycle begins again.</p>
  465. <p>First, successional species sprout and the animals that love them migrate to the area. Those animal species which prefer an older stand move on down the road to a habitat that better suits them. That is why having a variety of pine stand age classes is so important to the wildlife. At any given time, a pine stand will provide what one suite of species requires as animals relocate to areas that meet their needs. Not to mention, the various age classes of timber <a href="https://frc.us.com/forestry-consulting-services/general-consulting/">provide landowners more opportunities to generate cashflow</a> from both thinnings and final harvests.</p>
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  467. <h4><a href="/talk-to-a-forester/">Contact us to set up a free consultation</a> to determine how we can serve you.</h4>
  468. <p>Our first consultation is free. Afterwards, we will prepare a detailed quote for services requested.  After engagement, we will work together to execute the plan to meet your goals.</p>
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  472. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com/enhancing-wildlife-habitat/">Enhancing Wildlife Habitat with Planned Forest Management</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://frc.us.com">Forest Resource Consultants, Inc.</a>.</p>
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