UMLMWS PRESS RELEASE
Dean R. Francis Receives Forest Stewardship Plan Writer Certification
Dean R. Francis, President, and Co-Owner of Upper Michigan Land Management & Wildlife Services, Inc. received his Forest Stewardship Plan writing certification in 1992 while working for Oceana and Newaygo Soil Conservation Districts. Since that time, Mr. Francis has completed over 50,000 acres of Forest Stewardship management plans throughout Michigan.
The Forest Stewardship Program (FSP) is designed to encourage the active management of all resources on forest land. The Forest Stewardship Program aims at developing multiple resource management on privately owned lands. The Forest Land Enhancement Program provides financial assistance for specific forest and wildlife practices. They are separate but complementary programs.
Forest Stewardship funds may pay up to 50% of the cost of developing a management plan. The cost of a forest stewardship plan is $1.25 per Acre plus $300.00. This is a small price to pay for a professionally developed long-term forest plan which provides the landowner the knowledge to improve his or her forest resources. In addition, FLEP reimburses or cost-shares up to 65% of the cost of designated management practices up to specified maximums. FLEP offers a wider array of cost-share practices than any other forestry incentive program. It provides a source of financial assistance never before available to manage the broad range of forest resources that today’s landowners are interested in.
Forest Stewardship Plan Writing Eligibility Requirements:
To be eligible for a plan writing grant, applicants must be Forest Stewardship program certified plan writers. A Certified Plan Writer must:
1. Have a four-year degree in Forestry or related Natural Resource field OR have a two-year degree in Forestry or related Natural Resource field with approved experience and submit documentation to the Forest Stewardship Coordinator.
2. Applicant must attend initial six-hour training on the Michigan Forest Stewardship Program, either through the Forest Stewardship Coordinator or their local Service Forester.
3. Maintain six hours of approved continuing education in natural resource management yearly and submit documentation of such to the Forest Stewardship Coordinator.
4. Remain in good standing by providing professional service in a timely manner.