Wisconsin County Forests secure clean audits and advocate for increased state funding

The Polk County Board of Supervisors meeting on December 17, 2024, focused on the management and certification of county forests, highlighting the collaborative efforts between local counties and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

A key discussion point was the status of forest certification among counties. Currently, 20 counties are dual certified, while six counties, including Polk, are certified only under the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI). One county holds Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification, and three counties have opted out of certification due to their small size, which makes it economically unfeasible. The DNR oversees these certifications and conducts annual audits, with Polk County achieving clean audits for three consecutive years, a testament to effective forest management practices.

The meeting also addressed financial support from the DNR, which provides approximately $8.15 million annually to counties through various grants and aid programs. This includes funding for county foresters, project loans, and direct payments to townships based on acreage. Polk County specifically receives 473 hours of technical support from a DNR liaison, which is crucial for maintaining compliance with state statutes and managing forest resources effectively.

Additionally, the county forest association, established in 1968, plays a vital role in advocating for forestry interests at the state level. The association's priorities include addressing declining wood markets, advocating for increased funding for grants and aids, and promoting sustainable forestry practices. The association is also launching a special license plate initiative to raise funds for county forest management.

The meeting concluded with discussions on potential federal support for local forestry initiatives, particularly through USDA wood innovation grants. While the focus remains primarily on state-level advocacy, there is optimism about future opportunities for county forests to engage in carbon programs, with some counties already exploring contracts related to carbon projects.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of collaboration between county officials and the DNR in managing Wisconsin's valuable forest resources, ensuring compliance with regulations, and securing necessary funding for sustainable forestry practices.