What does Call Before You Cut provide?

Call Before You Cut (CBYC) is a free program for all Minnesota’s woodland owners who want forest management guidance on determining if a woodland timber harvest is the right for them. With the support of the Minnesota DNR, the Minnesota Forestry Association provides up to a half-day walkthrough of your woods by a professional forester at no cost to you if you own 20 acres or more. If you own less than 20 acres, call the MFA Forester Help line 218-879-5100 for further assistance.

Should you harvest timber from your land?

For private woodland owners, our woods represent one of our most valuable assets. The decision to harvest, and how to do so, can either improve or set back the future value of our land, its potential for wildlife habitat, and as a source of pleasure for your family and future generations.

There are several reasons why we might decide to harvest timber:

• For income

• To improve wildlife habitat

• To improve the overall health of our woodland

• To salvage timber damaged by a storm, insects, etc.

Whatever our reason for harvesting, MFA recommends working with a professional forester because they are uniquely qualified to assist us with a timber harvest plan that meets our expectations. We stress again that MFA accepts no payment from any forester or logger in exchange for our recommendation.

In collaboration with the Minnesota DNR, the Minnesota Forestry Association and the Call Before You Cut program provides up to a half-day, free woodland visit to help you decide if a woodland timber harvest is right for you.