PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release – September 3, 2025

Media Contact:
Keith Thompson, Private Lands Program Manager
Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation
Keith.thompson@vermont.gov, 802-498-5169

Seeking Input on Updates to Vermont’s Use Value Appraisal’s Standards for Forestland

Montpelier, Vt. – The Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation (FPR) is inviting public feedback on proposed updates to the Minimum Acceptable Management and Plan Standards for Forest Management. These standards are established by the Commissioner of FPR and apply to land enrolled in the Use Value Appraisal (UVA) program, also known as Current Use, Managed Forestland category.

With more than 2 million acres of forestland enrolled, UVA is one of Vermont’s most successful conservation efforts. The program protects water quality, supports forest health and biodiversity, and supports working forests by prioritizing its working land value rather than its development potential.

The Commissioner’s Standards describe the requirements for forest planning and management for lands enrolled in the forestland category of UVA. The last major update to the Standards was in 2010. Since then, FPR has implemented a number of new policies or statutory updates to the program, including Reserve Forestland guidelines, sugarbush management standards, and allowances for electronic signatures. FPR has also identified areas where clearer and more consistent standards can improve management plan development and review and increase program efficiency, which will in turn improve the health and productivity of our forests.

In early 2024, more than 90 consulting foresters submitted nearly 450 comments on an initial draft of the updated Standards. Their input led to significant revisions designed to make the draft Standards more straightforward and easier to implement, while maintaining program integrity and supporting program outcomes.

“The UVA program is a cornerstone of Vermont’s working landscape,” said Keith Thompson, FPR’s Private Lands Program Manager. “These draft updates reflect years of experience, input from our partners, and a shared commitment to keeping Vermont’s forests healthy, intact, and productive. We are looking forward to hearing from landowners and community members to make sure the Standards work well for everyone who cares for our forests.”

Landowners, foresters, and other members of the public are invited to provide input on the proposed Standards before they are finalized by emailing Keith Thompson, Private Lands Program Manager, at keith.thompson@vermont.gov. Please use the subject line UVA Draft Standards Input.

For more information about Vermont’s Use Value Appraisal program and to learn more about the revisions and opportunities to engage, please visit the Current Use Forest Lands Standards Revision web page.

Comments will be accepted through [October 17, 2025].

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The Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation is responsible for the conservation and management of Vermont’s forest resources, the operation and maintenance of the State Park system, and the promotion and support of outdoor recreation for Vermonters and our visitors. In addition, FPR is responsible for the acquisition, planning coordination and administration of all Agency of Natural Resources lands.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider. To file a discrimination complaint, for questions, free language services, or requests for reasonable accommodations, please contact ANR’s Nondiscrimination Coordinator at ANR.CivilRights@vermont.gov or visit ANR’s online Notice of Nondiscrimination.