What We Offer Tree Farmers

Support for Family Forest Owners

The Illinois Tree Farm Program exists to support, educate, and recognize family forest owners who care for their land. Our volunteer-driven program provides guidance, certification, and community for private woodland owners across Illinois.

Forest Certification & Inspections

We provide third-party forest certification through the American Tree Farm System®. Volunteer inspectors—trained foresters and natural resource professionals—visit Tree Farms to:

Review management plans
Assess forest conditions
Offer stewardship recommendations
Certify properties that meet sustainability standards

Education & Outreach

Illinois Tree Farm offers educational opportunities for landowners, including:

Woodland management field days
Workshops and webinars
Demonstration sites and tours
Publications and stewardship resources

Our goal is to empower landowners with knowledge to make confident, informed decisions about their forests.

Landowner Networking & Community

Tree Farm connects landowners with:

Fellow Tree Farmers
Professional foresters
Natural resource agencies
Conservation organizations

This network fosters peer learning, mentorship, and shared stewardship values.

Recognition & Awards

Certified Tree Farmers may be eligible for:

Outstanding Tree Farmer awards
Regional and national recognition
Media features and outreach stories

Recognition highlights stewardship excellence and celebrates families who care for their forests.

Youth & Community Engagement

We support youth and community forestry education through:

School and youth programs
Forestry career awareness
Partnerships with universities, agencies, and conservation groups

Engaging the next generation ensures forestry stewardship continues into the future.

Advocacy for Family Forest Owners

Illinois Tree Farm represents the interests of private forest owners by:

Promoting the value of family forests
Supporting sustainable forestry policies
Encouraging public understanding of forest stewardship