Become an Idaho Tree Farmer!

If you have 10 acres or more that is forested or capable of supporting trees, you may become a member of the Idaho Tree Farm program.


To apply for membership, contact the Idaho Tree Farm Program administrator at (208) 667-4641 to set up an appointment for a certified inspector to tour your land. The American Tree Farm System certifies your Tree Farm management plan, but neither the ATFS, or the Idaho Tree Farm Program, will prepare a forest management plan for you. If you do not have a forest management plan for your property, you can create your own plan, or have a one created by a forester or resource professional.

After certification is recommended for your land you have earned the right to display the Tree Farm sign. Every five years thereafter, Tree Farms are reinspected to assure that landowners continue to meet the rigorous forestry certification criteria of the Idaho Tree Farm Program.

Benefits of Becoming a Certified Tree Farmer

  • Membership in a network of professional foresters and landowners who share a commitment to sustainable forestry.
  • Free professional advice from a forester.
  • Invitations to seminars, field days, and workshops to assist you in achieving your Tree Farm goals.
  • ATFS recognized sign of sustainable forestry and other ATFS promotional items.
  • Tools and training opportunities about the benefits of sustainable forestry.
  • Local, state and national information on legislation and other issues affecting forest landowners.
  • Annual national convention to meet, share experiences and enjoy the fellowship of Tree Farmers from across the country.
  • The opportunity to be recognized by fellow landowners and forestry professionals in local, state, regional and national Outstanding Tree Farmer competition.
  • An annual Idaho Tree Farm Tour to view the property of the Idaho Tree Farmer of the Year.
  • Periodic newsletters from the Idaho Tree Farm Committee
  • A complimentary subscription to Tree Farmer, The Guide to Sustaining America’s Family Forests magazine, a bi-monthly publication by Tree Farmers for Free Farmers.

Requirements for Tree Farm Certification

  • Woodlands must be ten acres or more.
  • Under management, with a written and implemented plan that accounts for water quality, wildlife habitat, soil conservation, biodiversity, and recreational opportunities as well as production of forest products.
  • Protected from fire, insects, disease and destructive grazing.
  • Reforested and harvesting.

Tree Farmers Must Make A Good Faith Efforts To:

  • Protect special sites and consider forest aesthetics.
  • Dispose of slash in an environmentally sound manner.
  • Use chemicals prudently.
  • Contract with licensed and insured loggers and forest management contractors.