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IFA Woodlands

The Illinois Forestry Association is honored to care for woodlands that have been generously donated to the organization.

These properties represent a lasting investment in Illinois forests and provide IFA with an opportunity to put responsible forest stewardship into practice.

When IFA accepts a woodland donation, we take seriously the responsibility that comes with becoming its long-term steward. Our goal is to manage these properties to support healthy forests, wildlife habitat, sustainable forestry, ecological health, and future generations.

Stewardship in Action

Each property is unique. Before accepting a donation, IFA considers how the property fits our mission and whether we can responsibly manage it for the long term. Once accepted, the property is evaluated and management planning begins.

Management plans may incorporate a variety of silvicultural practices designed to improve forest health, encourage desirable regeneration, enhance wildlife habitat, and maintain or improve the quality and productivity of the woodland.

Depending on the property's condition, goals, and management needs, activities may include:

  • Forest health and improvement practices
  • Silvicultural treatments to encourage forest regeneration and diversity
  • Management of invasive species and other forest health threats
  • Wildlife habitat enhancement
  • Regeneration and forest succession management
  • Potential timber harvests as a tool for achieving forest management objectives
  • Sustainable utilization of forest products
  • Recreation and educational opportunities

Background photo + link to Lovett Forest

Background photo + link to William Gerrish Woodlands

Supporting Sustainable Wood Utilization

Timber harvesting can be an important part of responsible forest management. When appropriate, a carefully planned harvest can improve forest conditions, promote regeneration, enhance habitat, and provide opportunities to utilize a renewable natural resource.

IFA supports sustainable wood utilization and recognizes the important role that forest products play in Illinois communities and economies. Timber harvested from IFA woodlands may provide an opportunity to demonstrate how sound silviculture and responsible harvesting can contribute to healthy forests while supplying renewable wood products.

A Legacy for Illinois Forests

A donated woodland is more than a gift of land. It is a gift that can continue to benefit Illinois forests and the people who care about them for generations.

IFA is grateful to the landowners who have entrusted their woodlands to the organization. Their generosity helps us advance our mission to promote healthy, productive, and sustainable forests and demonstrate the value of responsible woodland stewardship.

We look forward to sharing the stories of these special properties—and the lessons they can teach us about managing Illinois forests for the future.

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