Privately Owned Working Forestlands
Privately Owned Working Forestlands supports conservation of Vermont’s privately owned forests to sustain forest products, protect habitat and water, and preserve recreational and scenic benefits.
Funder: Vermont Housing and Conservation Board
Due Dates: Application deadlines: see Board meeting calendar
Funding Amounts: Discuss program-specific funding with VHCB staff
Summary: Supports conservation of privately owned Vermont working forests to sustain forest products and protect environmental, recreational, and scenic benefits.
Key Information: Individual landowners must work with a land trust to apply for VHCB funds.
Description
The Vermont Housing and Conservation Board (VHCB) supports conservation of Vermont forests owned and managed by private individuals or families. These working forests provide lumber, pulp, firewood, and biomass products that add value to Vermont’s economy and create jobs. The program connects continued productive use of forestlands with protection of the natural resources and public benefits they provide.
Conserving these forests protects clean air and water, supports flood resilience, and offsets the effects of climate change. It also safeguards plant and animal habitat, provides recreational opportunities, and preserves the scenic backdrop of Vermont’s agricultural lands and villages. Projects must provide lasting benefits to Vermonters through deed restrictions or other mechanisms that ensure conservation funding has a long-term effect.
