Being a part of the American Tree Farm System (ATFS) shows commitment to the importance of wood, water, recreation and wildlife sustainability for your property. Read below for more information about the program and how to become involved.

Dear Landowner,

As a program of the American Forest Foundation (AFF), the American Tree Farm System® includes a network of 74,000 family forest owners sustainably managing 19 million acres of forestland. As your forestry professional and Kentucky program representative, we want to help more landowners learn about this program and how it can benefit their families. 

We hope you will consider allowing us to certify your property in recognition of your commitment to sustainable forestry.

American Tree Farm System (ATFS) membership is free to landowners, with few obligations. Requirements include maintaining a forest management plan. As your certified forestry/inspector, we already have on file a written plan for your property. Affiliated ATFS tree farms are also subject to random assessments through certified third parties. Tree farmers will receive relevant mailings, access to webinars, and an official Tree Farm sign to post on their property. Representing a wonderful community of like-minded landowners, the AFF also hosts a National Convention each year. 

The ATFS is the United States’ largest and oldest program supporting sustainable woodlands. This robust program is recognized internationally for meeting strict, third-party certification standards. Affiliated tree farms produce certified wood for the industry at higher premiums, serving as a recognition system for dedicated stewards of America’s private forestlands. Each ATFS tree farm may qualify for State, Regional, and National Tree Farm of the Year awards. This is one-way forestland owners may proudly show support for prioritizing sustainable forestry practices through the Farm Bill.

For more than 75 years, ATFS has enhanced the quality of America’s woodlands by providing forest owners with the tools they need to keep woodlands healthy and productive. Stemming the loss of America’s woodlands is vital for clean water and air, thriving wildlife habitats, recreational activities, and supporting industries reliant on wood-based products.

Would you like to know more about the ATFS program in Kentucky? Reach out to me directly or visit forestfoundation.org/becoming-ATFS-certified

Thank you for your consideration to be a part of the ATFS community!