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Becoming a Cooperating Forester

Note: Cooperators must agree to follow Department of Natural Resources-approved sound forestry standards in all forest management guidance and assistance that they provide. This includes Wisconsin forest management guidelines, DNR handbooks and forestry best management practices related to water quality, invasive species and biomass harvesting [exit DNR].

To become a cooperating forester, you must meet specific academic requirements and complete and submit the following forms. Applications can be submitted year-round and successful applicants will be notified directly.

Requirements

Each cooperating forester is required to have "a bachelor’s or higher degree in forestry from a school with a curriculum accredited by the Society of American Foresters or an equivalent degree, as determined by the chief state forester” under the definition in s. NR 1.21(2)(e), Wis. Adm. Code. Read more about the minimum academic requirements [PDF] for cooperating foresters.

Complete and sign the Cooperating Forester Application [PDF], which provides cooperating forester education and training verification, contact information, services provided and service area.

Complete and sign the Cooperating Forester Agreement [PDF], which outlines the terms and obligations of a cooperating forester.

Application

To apply for the Cooperating Forester Program, complete, sign and submit the Cooperating Forester Application and the Cooperating Forester Agreement to:

Private Forestry Specialist
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
PO Box 7921
Madison WI 53707

Applications can be submitted anytime.

Cooperating foresters who wish to write management plans for Managed Forest Law properties must complete the required training to become a certified plan writer (CPW).