Forest certification of small ownerships: Some practical challenges

Abstract

Certification is a relatively new topic for most nonindustrial private forest (NIPF) landowners in the United States. The management of NIPFs has long challenged foresters and policymakers to find workable opportunities for owners. Drawing on the literature surrounding NIPFs and their owners, this article considers four practical challenges to credible, meaningful, and widespread certification of these ownerships by examining the American Tree Farm System and the Forest Stewardship Council's certification system. The challenges are offered here to stimulate dialogue on this emerging issue for NIPF stewardship.