What factors motivate private woodland owners to manage their woodlots sustainably?

For some it is personal interest or stewardship ethic, while others may be more influenced by potential for economic returns.

Click on one of the links in the menu bar on the right to view several case studies profiling woodland owners who have not only demonstrated long-term stewardship of their forests, but have also documented their financial returns over the years.

The case studies have been undertaken, in part, to investigate if economic returns from woodlots can compare favourably with those from agriculture. Returns from these managed forests (mostly from timber sales but possibly including other activities such as production of maple syrup) have been compared to the income from agricultural crops on comparable land over the same period. It is hoped these case studies will provide added incentive for woodlot owners to manage their woodlots responsibly, either by demonstrating the potential for enhanced long-term financial returns or through the example of responsible stewardship provided by the woodland owners profiled in the case studies.

Our Partners 

Thanks to our generous partners who have made this initiative possible:

• Huron Stewardship Council
• George Morris Centre
• Huron Perth Chapter - Ontario Woodlot Association
• Keith Roulston
• Maitland Watershed Partnerships Initiative
• Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources – Guelph District
• Ontario Stewardship Opportunity Fund
• Ontario Forestry Association
• Dave Pridham, Victoria Land and Water Stewardship Council
• Participating Landowners