Foresters monitor the forest health through
ground and aerial observation. When problems
occur such as bark beetles, gypsy moth and
ice storm damage the landowner is notified
and provided advice and referrals to timber
buyers or consultant foresters as needed.
The Virginia
Department of Forestry (VDOF) follows up on
harvesting and assists landowners who seek
advice. The VDOF inspects harvesting sites
for compliance with the Seed Tree Law and
The Silvicultural Water Quality Law. During
an inspection, compliance with other state
and federal laws is observed so the
landowner and logger can be informed and
kept in compliance with applicable
regulations. The other laws include: The
Chesapeake Bay Act, The Virginia Marine
Resources Law(s), and The Federal Clean
Water Act(s) including wetlands regulations.
The logger, consultant forester, industry
forester, and/or the landowner are contacted
during logging operations concerning BMP
installation. The landowner is contacted
concerning needs for forest renewal and
future management.
The first
step toward a healthy, productive woodland
is a Forest Stewardship or Management Plan.
Consulting Foresters and Department
Foresters are available in every county to
provide Forest Management Plans for timberland owners.
Contact the following governmental resources
for additional information:
Virginia Department of Forestry