Qualified Forest Program

Do you have a forest that is actively being managed or you are looking to manage in the near future? If so you could be eligible for the Qualified Forest Program (QFP). This is a tax-reduction based program designed to incentivize active management on private forest lands. Those enrolled will see a reduction in school operating taxes on non-homestead property. Additionally, the taxable value of the land enrolled in the program will not be “uncapped” when it changes ownership. The rest of the requirements for the program are listed below. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.

Requirements for QFP:

• Parcels must be at least 20 acres

• The forest must have a current Forest Management Plan which has been written by a qualified forester

• The parcel may have buildings and structures located on it but these are not eligible for an exemption

• Enrolled landowners must pay an annual fee

• Public access is not required for the parcel

• Production of timber off of the property (timber harvest) is required to occur at least once while the property is enrolled.

For those interested in the program who feel they meet the requirements above go to www.michigan.gov/QFP to apply. If you have questions about the program, please don’t hesitate to reach out.