"BOUTIQUE" FORESTRY: NEW FOREST PRACTICES IN URBANIZING LANDSCAPES

Journal of Arboriculture, Nov 2004 by Hull, R Bruce, Robertson, David P, Buhyoff, Gregory J

The owners of small forests are potential clients for professional forestry services and important constituents who can allect the future of forests and forestry. Unfortunately, many owners of small forests are wary of foresters, and many foresters are cautious about practicing forestry on small forests.

Nonetheless, we find encouraging evidence that a growing number of forestry professionals are forging positive and profitable relationships with these landowners. Interviews with private forestry consultants, forestry organization leaders, and public foresters, as well as with the landowners themselves, reveal opportunities and constraints for working successfully with this new clientele. Among the findings: Boutique forest owners are willing to conduct forest management activities to improve their properties. (J. For. 2004. 102(1): 14-19)