Property Tax Reduction Services
Forests are understood to be a public good. No matter who owns them, forests benefit society by providing clean air and water, wildlife habitat, and aesthetic values (among others). Unfortunately, it can be expensive to own forests due to pressure from development and rising property values.
Several states have recognized this problem and have taken steps to reduce the loss of precious forests by reducing the tax burden on landowners who choose not to develop their forests. F&W can help you enroll your property in Connecticut's PA-490 program, New York's Section 480-a program, or Massachusetts' Chapter 61 program. In each case a certified forester must be enlisted to confirm that a property meets the state-mandated requirements.
There may also be local open-space regulations that could help reduce your tax burden even if your property does not meet the specifications for forestland as defined in these state programs. Contact us for more information.