CLARE CONSERVATION DISTRICT
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  • Home
  • 2025 Native Sale
  • Gardens Project
  • Spongy Moth
    • Gypsy Moth News
    • FAQ'S
    • Gypsy Moth Identification & Life Cycle
    • Natural Enemies
    • Foray 48b Bacterial Insecticide
    • Landowner Management >
      • Gypsy Moth Traps
      • Removal Guide
    • Links For More Information
  • Soil Erosion
    • Frequently Asked Questions
    • Permit Fee Schedule
    • Permit Application
    • Best Management Practices >
      • Silt Fence
  • Forestry
    • Qualified Forest Program
    • Find a Professional
    • Oak Wilt
    • Forestry Project Referrals
    • Planting Instructions
  • MAEAP
  • Tool Crib Rental
  • About Us
    • FOIA
    • Programs
    • Staff & Board Members
    • Board Meetings & Minutes
    • Our Partners
    • Donate
  • NRCS
  • Annual Report

Michigan's Qualified Forest Program (QFP)

The Qualified Forest Program is a tax incentive program for forestland owners in Michigan. By enrolling, you will save up to 16 mils on your school operating taxes and prevent the uncapping of the properties taxable value.  At least 20 acres, A forest management plan, and willingness to sustainably harvest your timber is just about all you need to be eligible. 

 This brochure provides a basic overview of the program, and the benefits and responsibilities of enrolled landowner.  Additional information about the program is available at www.michigan.gov/QFP, or by calling the Conservation District at (989) 539-6401.

Dec 16 QFP Webinar Recording - Link Here

Enrolling in the Qualified Forest Program

In order to enroll into the QFP program, you may be required to complete the following steps:
1) Contact your local Conservation District Forester. Joe Nash is the forester for Clare and Gladwin Counties.
  • The forester will conduct an initial site visit to
    A) Verify your property's eligibility for the program.
    B) 
    Write a summary of the property. The summary will assist you in finding a Qualified Forester. A Qualified forester will write a management plan for you.
  • Approximately two weeks after you request a referral, you can expect to receive a list of Qualified Foresters who have expressed an interest in working with you.
2) Contact a few of the Qualified Foresters and(or) choose one to write a plan.  (Please be advised, the Qualified               Foresters are private-sector contractors. These foresters will charge for plan writing.
    Note: Be sure to ask your forester about cost-share programs!)

3) Once you have your forest management plan, your QFP Application can be submitted to the State of Michigan, along with the $50 application fee. Applications are available online at Michigan.gov/QFP

***If at any point you have questions about the application process, please contact your Conservation District Forester for assistance.***
District Information
Clare Conservation District 
225 W. Main Street   PO Box 356
​Harrison Michigan 48625

​Telephone: 989-539-6401


​
 ​OFFICE HOURS
Located in the Clare County Courthouse open Monday-Friday 8 am - 4:30 pm
​

The Conservation District is a field office. Call to verify someone will be in the office.



​OFFICE STAFF
  Christiane Rathke
​District Administrator/Soil Erosion Agent

[email protected]
[email protected] (SESC)
​
Toni Maize
Spongy (Gypsy) Moth Coordinator
[email protected]​​


Mike Dittenber
​ District Forester
​[email protected]

Brandi Mitchell
MAEAP Technician
[email protected]


Monthly Board Meeting 
Harrison Public Library
3rd Tuesday of every month @ 6:30pm 
Any change to this schedule will be posted on this website



Board of Directors
​Vacant- Chair
Matt Todd-Secretary
​Benjamin Brown-Treasurer
Tonya Roe-Director
​Clay Mcilrath-Director