Advocacy & Policy
Promoting Policies That Empower Stewards and Sustain Woodlands
At Vermont Woodlands Association (VWA), we believe responsible stewardship is the foundation of healthy, resilient forests. Our advocacy work is dedicated to advancing policies that empower forest landowners, support sustainable management practices and strengthen the role of stewards in ensuring Vermont’s woodlands thrive for generations to come.
Our Policy Work in Action
Policy changes directly impact how landowners manage their forests and engage with Vermont’s forestry community. VWA works to ensure that our members are informed, equipped and actively involved in shaping stewardship-focused policies.
We take action by:
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Keeping Members Informed – Providing regular legislative updates that affect Vermont’s forests.
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Providing Advocacy Resources – Equipping landowners and forestry professionals with tools to engage in forestry policy discussions.
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Amplifying Your Voice – Helping members connect with opportunities to engage in public testimony, write letters and meet with legislators to shape forestry policy.
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Advocating for Increased Forestry Funding – Supporting funding for forestry extension programs that provide direct assistance to landowners.
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Supporting Legislation on Key Issues – Backing state and federal policies that address invasive species, forest health and climate challenges affecting our Vermont forestry community.
Explore Our Position Statements
VWA develops position statements on key forestry and stewardship issues to guide our advocacy efforts. These statements reflect our commitment to balanced, science-based policies that support:
Renewable Energy
Discover how Vermont Woodlands Association promotes the sustainable use of wood energy, supporting local economies and advancing renewable energy goals.
Level the Playing Field
Explore Vermont Woodlands Association's policy brief addressing economic challenges in forestry. Learn about proposed solutions for fair taxation, worker's compensation, and transportation regulations.
Protecting Vermont’s Woodlands from Invasive Pests
Safeguard Vermont's forests from invasive pests with the Vermont Woodlands Association. Discover how we prevent, detect, and eradicate threats to our woodlands, ensuring the health and sustainability of our environment. Join our efforts to protect wildlife habitats and support woodland owners today.
Right to Practice Forestry
Support Vermont's forests with the Vermont Woodlands Association. We advocate for policies protecting woodland owners from unjustified nuisance lawsuits, ensuring sustainable forest management. Join us in preserving water quality, enhancing wildlife habitat, and fostering healthy forest economies for future generations.
Deer Herd Management
Explore effective deer herd management strategies in Vermont to protect forest health and reduce tick-borne disease risks. Learn how controlling deer and moose populations can preserve ecological balance, promote healthy woodlands, and safeguard human health. Join the Vermont Woodlands Association in advocating for sustainable forests.
Use Value Appraisal and Current Use Taxation
Explore the Vermont Woodlands Association's commitment to maintaining a productive landscape with the Use Value Appraisal program. This initiative supports fair taxation for farm and forest lands, promoting sustainable agriculture and forestry, clean air, and wildlife habitats in Vermont’s cherished Green Mountain State.
Illegal ATV Use on Private and State Lands
Understand the impact of unauthorized ATV use on Vermont's forests and how VWA advocates for enforcement, education, and sustainable land management practices.
Contact Us
Kate Forrer, Executive Director
(802) 214-4846
director@vermontwoodlands.org
How You Can Get Involved
Your voice is essential to advancing policies that prioritize stewardship. Here’s how you can contribute:
Stay Informed
Sign up for our Monthly E-Newsletter to receive updates on legislative issues and action opportunities.
Engage with Local Policymakers
Contact your local Representatives and Senators—just three calls can make an impact! Vermont’s citizen legislature is accessible, so reach out to your local Representatives and Senators to share your concerns and goals for stewardship.
Make Your Voice Heard
Speak up on issues that matter to you. Testify or submit written comments on forestry policies that impact Vermont’s forests. VWA can help you prepare testimony and connect with legislative committees. Contact us to get started.
Join the Conversation
Join VWA’s Policy Committee to track key policy issues, develop position statements and shape advocacy efforts. Whether you’re interested in contributing your expertise or staying more engaged with forestry policy, there’s a place for you. Reach out to learn more about the committee’s work.