Privately Owned Working Forestlands
Privately Owned Working Forestlands supports conservation groups and public bodies in conserving Vermont’s private working forests to sustain forest products and lasting environmental and recreational benefits.
Funder: Vermont Housing and Conservation Board
Due Dates: Application deadlines listed on the Board meeting calendar
Funding Amounts: Discuss project-specific funding with VHCB staff; funds may take up to three months after Board approval
Summary: Supports conservation of Vermont’s privately owned working forests to sustain forest products and protect lasting environmental, recreational, and scenic benefits.
Key Information: Individual landowners should work with a land trust rather than apply directly.
Description
The Vermont Housing and Conservation Board (VHCB) supports conservation of Vermont forests owned and managed by private individuals or families. The program focuses on working forests that supply lumber, pulp, firewood, and biomass products, contributing to Vermont’s economy and creating jobs. It connects the continued productive use of forestland with lasting public conservation benefits.
Conserving these forests protects clean air and water, supports flood resilience, and offsets the effects of climate change. Projects also safeguard plant and animal habitat, provide recreational opportunities, and preserve the scenic backdrop of Vermont’s agricultural lands and villages. Supported projects must demonstrate long-term benefits to Vermonters through deed restrictions or other mechanisms that ensure the funding has a lasting effect.
