Forest Management

The management of BCPL's more than 75,000 acres of woodlands is guided by a comprehensive management plan, along with a detailed Geographic Information System (GIS). This plan and the associated GIS data contain site-specific information about timber management including timber harvest schedules, forest monitoring, and non-commercial treatments, as well as information about water features, wetlands, rare species, roads, historical sites, and past management activities. We have analyzed the historical records of more than 1,000 timber sales going back to the onset of logging on Trust Lands in 1943. This data is also stored in the management GIS which allows us to efficiently review treatment history for any given area of our property.

Every year, BCPL conducts forest inspections on about 20% of its ownership. These detailed site visits document various attributes that help to describe the condition of the forest - such as species composition, growth, timber volumes, tree regeneration, and insect/disease problems, to name just a few. This information is vital to develop detailed management plans and sustainable harvest schedules for our entire land base.

Timber production and other land management activities are planned and scheduled to provide a stable flow of revenue. Timber harvests are used as a tool to: 1) generate revenue; 2) maintain a healthy forest; 3) encourage forest types that are more adapted to existing site and climatic conditions; 4) increase the value and growth of residual trees; and 5) increase public access through road construction and maintenance.

Timber Property Management Map

In our dual role as producers of income for current and future Trust beneficiaries, we are committed to a long-term strategy of sustainable forestry. During harvests, we intentionally leave some big trees in place to provide for the benefit of wildlife and forest diversity. We also identify and protect areas of unique ecological value. BCPL harvests trees in an ecologically and responsible and sustainable manner.

Forest Landowners that sell forest products benefit from "third party" certification to verify that they are practicing forestry in an environmentally responsible, socially beneficial, and economically viable manner. A growing number of consumers prefer proof of a forest certification when purchasing wood or paper products. The BCPL forest management program and land base have been third-party certified through the American Forest Foundation Eight Standards of Sustainability (AFF Sustainability Standards). This certification program is administered by the American Tree Farm System under a Group Certificate(#: US015568}. The BCPL land base and management procedures are audited annually to verify that they continue to adhere to the Tree Farm sustainability principles and guidelines.