As a woodland landowner, leasing your woodland can provide both monetary and land management benefits. Leases are one of the easiest ways to obtain income from land and can often offset rising property taxes. But, added income is not the only benefit a landowner will receive from leasing his land. Other benefits include enhanced land management which can lead to a better forest habitat promoting a healthier game population. An increasing number of hunters desire high quality hunts in a relaxed environment and often they can find these features by leasing private land.
Studies have shown that, for leased land, more is invested in habitat management practices than for unleased land. This increased management may come from landowners, hunters, or both. There are also government programs available to provide financial assistance for land management.
Thousands of outdoorsmen enjoy the state’s abundant habitat for hunting and viewing wildlife. Although public forestland is open to recreational users, studies show that some natural resource users are willing to pay private landowners for recreational experiences. Many people believe they enjoy higher-quality recreation on private forestland. Benefits include less crowding and fewer competing users, exclusive property use, convenience, safety, and often more abundant wildlife.
Another benefit to leasing land is that it creates a presence on the property. Many absentee landowners have concerns about trespassing, vandalism, theft, and illegal dumping on their property. Hunters or Hunt Clubs make responsible lessees; they tend to be good stewards of the environment and the land they hunt. Their activity on the property provides security to the landowner.
Leasing forested land can be a win-win for landowners and hunters. Hunters enjoy the uncrowded conditions and a quality hunt. Landowners receive direct benefits in the form of income and improved forest habitat. Always consult a lawyer before making a decision as to whether or not leasing is for you.
