Wisconsin’s Managed Forest Law is a landowner incentive program that encourages sustainable forestry on private woodlands in Wisconsin.
Two legislative committees are taking input on proposed changes to the law that one sponsor says makes it friendlier for the landowner to participate.
Last week State Senator Tom Tiffany held a hearing in Antigo on the changes. In the Assembly, Represenative Jeff Mursau of Crivitz says the proposed changes alleviate concerns from local timber production facilities that more wood is available...
"....trying to make it more attractive and keep our private landowners cutting their trees and bringing them to the mills because it's a very important part of that business...."
Mursau says the changes make clearer what buildings can be in the program and taxes. Landowners designate property as “Open” or “Closed” to public access for recreation, and commit to a 25 or 50 year sustainable forest management plan. The plan sets the schedule for specific forestry practices which landowners must complete. In return, MFL participants make a payment in lieu of regular property taxes plus a yield tax on harvested trees. Yield taxes go to the local municipality to help offset property taxes that are deferred while properties are enrolled in the program.
It's expected to be debated next month in the legislature.
