Woodlot Management

Managed Forest Tax Incentive Program (MFTIP)

In January 1997, the Minister of Natural Resources announced changes to property taxes in Ontario. The Managed Forest Tax Incentive Program (MFTIP) is a new program implemented for 1998. Lands that have four hectares (10 acres) of forest excluding all residences are eligible for this program. Landowners who qualify will have their woodlands taxed at 25% of the rate for residential land.

Each landowner must prepare a 20 year Managed Forest Plan for approval by a person designated as a Managed Forest Plan Approver. The Catfish Creek Conservation Authority has an approver on staff to help prepare, review, approve and audit Plans.

Plantation Management

Staff from the Catfish Creek Conservation Authority are available to assist landowners establish and manage plantations and woodlots throughout the watershed. Forestry advice is available on tree planting, woodlot management and plantation management for progression to sustainable use of forest products. Allowing trees to regenerate naturally grow and develop to valuable forest products, will also provide critical habitats for plants and animals, clear water and air, recreational opportunities and an array of other benefits to the landowner and people who live in the watershed.

Trained forestry staff can assist plantation owners with labour and equipment to undertake various tending requirements of the trees in a timely and cost effective manner. Operational assistance includes pruning, thinning and development of ecologically based resource management practices suited to the goals of each landowner.