MFL Overview
The Managed Forest Law Program, operated in conjunction with the State of Wisconsin DNR, offers landowners tax saving incentives through professional forestry practices. This program requires either a 25- or 50-year commitment as well as a management plan prepared by a professional forester for the property. This law aims to balance the economic, ecological, and social benefits of forest resources, and ensure the sustainable use of forest resources over the long term.
The Managed Forest Law generally involves requirements for forest landowners to create and follow forest management plans, which will meet the standards for sustainable forest management. These plans include details on timber harvesting, reforestation, and property landowner goals, in addition to protecting wildlife, water quality, and other ecological values.
MFL Requirements
Minimum acreage: 20 acres
Forest management plan: Landowners must have a forest management plan for the property prepared by a Certified Plan Writer (CPW), who is certified by the State DNR. Our land services department works in conjunction with our Futurewood foresters for these plans. Click here to meet our Certified Plan Writers
Timber harvesting guidelines: Landowners must follow timber harvesting and best management practices designed to protect forest health, erosion and other environmental damage.
Acceptable practices: Landowners are able to incorporate additional goals such as maintaining aesthetic buffers or enhancing wildlife habitat through trails and small opening development within the property.
Inspection and monitoring: Periodic inspections and monitoring may be needed to ensure that landowners are meeting program requirements for items such as reforestation or stand development.
Minimum enrollment period: Landowners must be committed to a 25- or 50-year contract. These contracts are binding through the State of Wisconsin and are deed recorded.
Mandatory Practices: Landowners are required to follow all harvesting mandatory practices per their management plan.
It is important to check with our Certified Plan Writers for specific guidelines and any other requirements for entry into the MFL program.
Important Deadlines
Managed Forest Law (MFL) program has strict deadlines that landowners must meet to maintain their eligibility or entrance into the program.
Enrollment deadline: June 1st within the calendar year. If accepted the official contract will start January 1st following initial application.
Management plan deadline: MFL participants are required to develop and submit a forest management plan to as prepared by the Certified Plan Writers by June 1st.
Harvesting deadline: These deadlines will be determined by your Certified Plan Writer and incorporated into your management plan.
Reporting deadlines: All pre- and post-harvest data for harvesting will be done in conjunction with mandatory practices. Typically completed by your forester
Meeting these deadlines is essential for maintaining eligibility within the MFL Program and Landowners are encouraged to work with a Certified Plan Writer throughout the duration of the contract.