Planning for a Small Group

If you only have time for a small event, or something that has minimal planning, these steps will help you plan a fun and effortless walk in your woods.

1. Who do you want to invite?

• Maybe it’s just your family, your children or grandchildren? Perhaps friends that you have talked with about your woods for years.

2. What do you want to share?

• Do you want to show a recent accomplishment? For example, recently built bat boxes, a newly thinned area or restored wetlands?
• Do you have a unique feature on your property? For example, a historical site, graveyard, or a favorite rock outcropping?
• Your favorite trail?

3. Where do you want to go in your woods?

• Is the area you want to share accessible?
• How will you get there?
• Are bathroom facilities accessible if necessary?

4. Plan for a safe walk. 

By sharing your Tree Farm with others you can help spread the word about the importance of family forests to wildlife, clean water, recreation and wood products. We want to encourage you and your guests to enjoy the day safely. Some items to check include:

• Make sure there are no low hanging tree limbs blocking the path of your walk.
• Walk your woods ahead of time: Make sure that the trail is in good shape and there is safe and sound footing for your guests. Think about what you can highlight on the walk.
• Offer an alternative path if the walk goes near a water’s edge.
• Ensure young children are supervised at all times.
• Make sure restricted areas are clearly marked.
• Pay particular attention if your guests will be using motorized equipment such as all-terrain vehicles or farm tractors. Will there be equipment that guests may need hard hats or safety goggles?
• Review your property’s insurance policy and/or seek professional legal advice for specifics to your property.

As a landowner, you will incur some risk when people are on your property. For more information, you can review Timberland Liability: Are You at Risk? in the Nov/Dec 2009 issue of Tree Farmer Magazine.

5. Teach the children — and have fun too!

Project Learning Tree®, the environmental education program of the American Forest Foundation, has lots of fun activities to do with children — and adults! Check out www.forestfoundation.org/familyactivities for a list of activities that are perfect for a walk in the woods with family.

6. Have fun and enjoy your walk in the woods. 

Relax and enjoy the day, after all — you’ve worked hard in these woods, it’s time to show them off!