Sixth-generation forest landowner Richard “Dick” Whitten oversees his Georgia property initially owned by an ancestor who fought in the American Revolution. Whitten is working to ensure the land stays in the family for at least another 200 years. Most people who visit the prized 231-acre tract of forestland in Georgia near the Morgan-Putnam County line … Continue Reading →
Brian Stone has spent more than 25 years working with landowners across Georgia and the Southeast. As a certified general appraiser, real estate agent, and senior leader at Forest Resource Consultants (FRC), he’s seen firsthand how land ownership is shifting — both in who holds the land and what they do with it. “There are … Continue Reading →
The author of this article, Dr. Brooks Mendell, is President and CEO of Forisk Consulting. He has three decades of consulting, operating, and research experience in the forest products and timber industries. For more than 20 years, he has provided research, management consulting, and educational services to timberland investors, timber REITs, wood-using manufacturing and bioenergy … Continue Reading →
The Georgia Forestry Commission estimates timber losses at a staggering $1.28 billion from Hurricane Helene. For a detailed analysis of the storm’s impact on Georgia’s forests, refer to the Timber Impact Assessment. Storms like Helene inflict varying degrees of damage across forested landscapes. Factors such as tree species, age, height, stand density, and the timing … Continue Reading →
The Rhodes family has a rich history in forestry, dating back over 100 years. Sloan Dobrin, a married mother of three, is stepping into the role of managing her family’s five-generation forest operation, Rhodes Timber. At 37, she’s gradually taking over from her father, Lee Rhodes, who has managed the multi-generational family business since … Continue Reading →
“Beyond this place, there be dragons.” This phrase, once used by ancient cartographers to signify the unknown and perilous beyond the known world, now finds new relevance – “Beyond today, there be dragons.” The modern cartographers at FRC are confronting these dragons, born from the internet and the rapid evolution of technology. With a blank … Continue Reading →
Timberland Investment Fundamentals The author of this article, Dr. Brooks Mendell, is President and CEO of Forisk Consulting. He has three decades of consulting, operating, and research experience in the forest products and timber industries. For more than 20 years, he has provided research, management consulting, and educational services to timberland investors, timber REITs, wood-using … Continue Reading →
Property tax assessments and taxes have increased significantly since 2000, and in many cases have added a disproportionate financial burden to rural landowners.
Appraisal Process Management of the appraisal process can be a daunting task for you, your family, and your business. The key to successful management is engaging a competent certified appraiser experienced in forestland valuation. Appraisals can be invaluable tools in the planning process for estates, families, generational transfers, and businesses. With more than 40 years … Continue Reading →
Hunting Lease Basics for Landowners Are you considering a hunting lease on your property? We have interviewed industry experts to gain an understanding of hunting lease basics and the landowner-hunter relationship. Lee Laechelt of the Alabama Forest Owners’ Association (AFOA) says demand for hunting land has risen in recent years, creating more opportunities for landowners … Continue Reading →