A New Direction: State's Voice, State's Choice
In all these discussions, ATFS was recognized as a symbol of quality and dedication to good forestry. As ATFS inspectors, you are essential to that credibility and commitment. But we also heard that one size does not fit all for our state ATFS programs. Third-party certification is a driving force for landowners in some states but not in others. For example, in some regions, markets for certified products are emerging. In other areas, ATFS certification serves as a baseline for conservation programming. Finally, there are some states where third-party audited certification is not a factor for landowners at all.
State Tree Farm programs are looking for flexibility to respond to the cultures, partners and landscapes in their states. ATFS, at all levels, looks to expand and nurture partnerships while also engaging a broader spectrum of landowners and building the financial sustainability of our programs. Together, we seek to strengthen ATFS as a credible and vibrant program that serves landowners.
As a result, ATFS is embarking on a new approach, known as State’s Voice, State’s Choice. This approach seeks to respond to the diversity of programs across the country by providing options to adapt to the conditions in each state. Through State’s Choice, each state Tree Farm committee will engage in a collaborative discussion to make an informed decision before the end of 2015 about maintaining third-party audited status. In addition, state programs will also be exploring funding avenues and options to help contribute to the financial sustainability of the program.
Regardless of the path a state chooses on third-party certification, the same ATFS standards will apply in all states—and to become Tree Farmer, landowners must meet the standards. This ensures that the ATFS program maintains national integrity and excellence.
As boots on the ground, inspecting foresters are essential to the ATFS program. The support and expertise you provide to landowners is critical and we appreciate your commitment and your efforts to ensure that landowners have what they need to be effective stewards of the land.
