Managing a healthy, productive forest is inherently a long-term commitment, and most forests will long outlive their current owners. Landowners must consider what will happen to the property that will outlast them. Typically, this involves transferring the land to the next generation, but this requires planning and dedication.
The Virginia Department of Forestry (VDOF) encourages landowners to engage with the ongoing process of legacy planning for their forest properties. Legacy planning involves educating and connecting with the next generation of land stewards for the family property.
As a landowner, you’re responsible for passing on the stewardship values associated with your land. These values can inform the decisions made about the property long into the future. Engaging the next generation in your property management builds a strong foundation for the eventual change in ownership.
Legacy planning is not a one-time action. These efforts can – and should – be ongoing and may evolve with the family over time. Legacy planning includes both the practical plans for the land transfer as well as what you hope future generations will prioritize for the property.
Estate planning is a more specific tool within the broader category of “legacy planning”. Estate planning typically involves coordinating legal and financial expertise to identify how the property will be transferred and managed in the future. Through estate planning, landowners may engage with attorneys and/or financial advisors to prepare legal documents and accounts for your estate (including all personal assets such as your land). These consultants can best help you apply appropriate legal and financial structures when they understand your goals.
Planning for the long-term future of your forested property goes beyond drafting legal and financial documents – although these are important planning tools, too. Communication and engagement build the values and knowledge necessary to properly manage a forest legacy.
Read more…
- Generation Next program to assist landowners with legacy planning
- Conservation easements as a tool for conservation
- Protecting forestland with the Forest Legacy Program
Get started, contact your local VDOF forester for guidance.
Additional Resources
Learn more about legacy planning for forest landowners.
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If you’re unsure where to start, contact your local VDOF forester for guidance.
For more information or questions, e-mail us or use our contact form.