By employing the services of a Registered Professional Forester, woodland owners receive a variety of services and benefits.

Registered Professional Foresters have the diverse knowledge and experience to advise you on the technical, ecological and financial aspects of managing a woodland.  All R.P.F.’s have a degree in forestry from an accredited university (or equivalent education and/or experiential learning certified by the Ontario Professional Foresters Association) and essential practical experience. An R.P.F can help landowners get the most value and enjoyment from their  forest now and in the future, and help the landowner determine their goals and objectives for their property. . R.P.F’s can provide you with expert advice on timber harvesting, tree planting, recreational planning and wildlife habitat management. They can also facilitate this work taking place.

OPFA Members also play a role in the management of Municipally-owned lands, and Conservation Authorities, which often fall under the category of Private Lands. Professional Foresters ensure that forests are managed sustainably, and provide necessary expertise to elected officials on forest-related topics.

The Ontario Professional Foresters Association has a long tradition of striving for improved standards, legislation and forest management programs in Ontario for both public and private lands.

Forest Management Plans

An R.P.F. can:

Help develop goals and strategies for realizing the long-term potential of woodlands;

Provide information on suitable reforestation and woodland improvements;

Prepare a management plan to outline and implement any actions you may be considering;

Develop recommendations on the management of wildlife habitat.

Forest or woodlot forest prescriptions

An R.P.F. can assess your woodland by:

Identifying the range of social, economic, recreational and aesthetic value present in your woodland;

Providing an estimate of timber volume and value in the woodland;

Assisting you with negotiating and drafting a logging contract;

Supervising trail development, wildlife habitat development and other activities to ensure your interests are protected;

Ensuring your activities in the woodland follow government bylaws and guidelines.

Identify conservation values

R.P.F’s can provide woodland owners with natural area information by:

Evaluating the diversity of species and habitats of your woodland;

Mapping the ecological characteristics of your property;

Assessing the sustainability of the forest and natural heritage values.