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Leaving a Legacy of Healthy Forests

Make a lasting impact on Vermont’s forests through a planned gift.

The Vermont Woodlands Legacy Society honors individuals and families who have made a lasting commitment to the future of Vermont’s forests through a planned gift. Members share a common belief in stewardship that extends beyond their lifetime—ensuring that Vermont’s working and wild forests continue to thrive for generations to come.

By including the Vermont Woodlands Association in your estate plans, you help safeguard the programs, partnerships, and advocacy that keep our forests healthy, resilient, and cared for.

The Impact of Your Legacy

When you join the Woodland Legacy Society, you:

  • Sustain forest stewardship for future generations of landowners, professionals, and wildlife.
  • Protect educational programs like Vermont Tree Farm, Women & Our Woods, and LEAP logger training.
  • Ensure continuity and stability for Vermont Woodlands Association as we advocate for forest health and stewardship statewide.
  • Inspire others to take the long view—caring for Vermont’s forests today, tomorrow, and beyond..
  • Receive recognition, if desired, in VWA's publication.

Ways to Leave a Legacy

Joining is simple. To become part of the Vermont Woodlands Legacy Society, you can:

  1. Include Vermont Woodlands Association in your will, trust, or estate plan.

  2. Name VWA as a beneficiary of your IRA, retirement account, or life insurance policy.

  3. Establish a planned gift that reflects your values and long-term commitment to woodland stewardship.

  4. Make a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) from your IRA. If you’re 70½ or older, you can make a tax-free gift directly from your IRA to support Vermont’s forests. This gift can count toward your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD).

  5. Donate Your Land to VWA.  For many woodland owners, the most meaningful legacy is the land itself. Donating your forestland— ensures it remains well cared for—helps protect Vermont’s forested landscape for generations.

Once you’ve made your plans, please let us know by completing the Legacy Intent Form below. Sharing your intentions helps us honor your wishes and plan for the future—though it’s not legally binding and can be changed at any time.

Legacy Intent Form

The Vermont Woodlands Legacy Society welcomes supporters who commit to the future of Vermont’s forests through a planned gift. We understand that circumstances can change, and by completing this form, you are expressing your intent to contribute.
Please note that this form is not legally binding.

Complete the Woodland Legacy Society Form

Reach out to us for a confidential conversation about your goals and how your gift can make a lasting difference.