Updated 5/13/20

Forest landowners who want to establish or enhance their woods and loggers looking to improve harvesting capacity can get financial assistance to enhance forest health and sustainability.

Multiple cost share opportunities are currently open for application through the end of May.

Financial assistance to landowners and loggers is available through numerous agencies and programs. The Department of Agriculture’s Division of Forestry (TDF) Area Foresters can help navigate options, eligibility rules and sign-up periods.

The Division partnered with the Tennessee Forestry Association to create the Duck and Elk River Watershed Buffer Initiative cost share program. This new program seeks to improve riparian zones, address critical aquatic habitat degradation and improve forest health in Giles County.

TAEP is available for loggers and sawmills to avoid environmental and water quality impacts resulting from timber harvesting. Wood pallet mats, wood and steel skidder bridges, stream-crossing grids, geotextile fabric and silt fences are among the items eligible for funding.

Contact your local Area Forester to learn more about these and other financial assistance programs, determine eligibility, apply and implement a plan.