
A Basic Guide to Wisconsin Forest Management
Whether you’re selling your current home or searching for your dream property, Wisconsin’s beautiful woodlands add incredible value. As your local real estate specialists, we want to introduce you to a powerful resource that can benefit both buyers and sellers: Wisconsin Forest Management Programs.
🏡 For Home Sellers: Boost Your Listing’s Appeal
If your property includes woods, a history of forest management isn’t just a nice detail—it’s a major selling point. It shows buyers you’ve been a responsible steward of the land.
The Seller Advantage:
- Higher Perceived Value: Buyers look for healthy, well-maintained land. A Forest Management Plan demonstrates proactive care, which can directly translate to a better asking price.
- Tax Benefit Transfer: If your property is enrolled in the Managed Forest Law (MFL) program, you can advertise the existing property tax reduction. This financial incentive is extremely attractive to potential buyers.
- Clear Documentation: Having a plan in place, showing which trees were thinned or harvested and when, gives buyers confidence in the long-term health and value of the timber.
🌳 For Home Buyers: Investing in a Healthy Future
Buying property with acreage means you’re inheriting a forest. Understanding management programs allows you to maximize the enjoyment and financial benefits of your new home.
The Buyer Benefit:
- Reduced Property Taxes: If the property is already in the Managed Forest Law (MFL) program, you’ll inherit the tax reduction, making your annual carrying costs lower. This is a significant factor in your overall budget!
- A Healthy Investment: A managed forest is generally more resilient to pests (like the Emerald Ash Borer) and disease. You’re buying a piece of property that has been actively protected and maintained.
- Guidance is Available: You don’t need to be a lumberjack to be a forest owner. These programs connect you with professional foresters who will help you decide how to manage your woods to meet your goals, whether that’s wildlife habitat, timber value, or recreation.

The Key Program: Managed Forest Law (MFL)
The most important program for private landowners in Wisconsin is the Managed Forest Law (MFL).
What it is: MFL is a private landowner program that provides a property tax break in exchange for following a written plan for sustainable forestry. Landowners agree to manage their woods for timber production, wildlife habitat, and water quality for a period of 25 or 50 years.
Key Takeaways:
- Tax Reduction: This is the primary incentive. Land enrolled in MFL pays substantially less in property taxes than comparable non-enrolled land.
- Professional Plan: You work with a certified forester to create a plan tailored to your woods and your personal goals.
- Transferable: The contract is generally transferred to the new owner when the property is sold. This is why it’s so important for both buyers and sellers to be aware of the program status!
Your Next Steps
Ready to explore how forest management can affect your buying or selling decisions? Here are the best resources to get started:
For Basic Information:
- Wisconsin DNR Forest Management Programs: Find comprehensive details on MFL, forestry best practices, and local assistance.
For Professional Help:
- DNR Cooperating Forester List: Use this tool to find a local professional who can walk you through the MFL application process or help you with a management plan.
Whether you’re prepping your wooded property for sale or are considering purchasing a home with acreage, knowing the status of any forest management plan is critical. Don’t leave money or value on the table!
Contact us today! Let’s unlock the full financial and environmental potential of Wisconsin land. 🌲