Stumped Spring 2008
Answers to Inspectors’ Most Frequently Asked Questions
Q: With the implementation of the required sample, I’ve been assigned an inspection for a property I have recently inspected. Is an over-the-phone recertification acceptable?
A: Over-the-phone recertifications are acceptable ONLY if you, the inspecting forester, have been on the property within the six months prior to being assigned the latest reinspection. Any duration of time extending beyond six months requires an on-site reinspection. If the forest owner acknowledges any activity on the property since your visit, you will need to do a personal inspection.
Q: I know somebody who'd like to become a Tree Farm inspector. Who do I refer them to?
A: Your state Tree Farm committee is responsible for planning and hosting inspector training courses in your area. Those interested in taking the training should contact the point person for your state committee. This information can be found on the searchable map listed under the 'Tree Farm in Your State' section of the Tree Farm website, located at www.treefarmsystem.org.
Q: As a member of ATFS, is a landowner required to cut trees?
A: Being a member of ATFS mandates the landowner maintain their forestland for wood, wildlife habitat, clean water, and recreation. Ensuring the long term health and productivity of forestland requires occasional harvesting, and though this may not necessarily be the primary objective of the landowner, there are many situations, such as for fire control managing insect infestations or manipulating wildlife habitat, where harvesting trees is the best management option.
