Take a slow walk through your woods with objective eyes and a notebook. Describe what you see. Write down what kind of trees and plants you have, as well as their estimated age, quantity, and condition.

List questions and concerns you have. For example, you may want more information about weeds, pests, fire resistance, grazing, and/or legacy planning.

Map out important features, including structures, streams, drainages, and roads.

Get a sense of your property and how it fits into the larger landscape: watershed, elevation, history, wildlife habitat, zoning, topography, neighbors, etc.

Think about your reasons for owning the land and write down what you’d like it to look like and be used for over the long term. Identify which goals are most important to you.

Find out what people and programs are available to help you, including local experts and agencies, neighbors, grants, and cost-share programs. Take a look through the resources and people available in Northeast Oregon here.

Create a project list, breaking down larger goals into smaller, more manageable tasks.

If you haven’t already requested a forester visit this would be a good time to benefit from their knowledge and experience.