4VAC10-20-30: Conservation of land resources, management and production, and certification

A. To qualify for forest use, the owner shall certify that the real estate is being used in a planned program of timber management and soil conservation practices which are intended to:

1. Enhance the growth of commercially desirable species through generally accepted silvicultural practices.

2. Reduce or prevent soil erosion by best management practices such as logging road layout and stabilization, streamside management zones, water diversion practices and other best management practices which prevent soil erosion and improve water quality.

B. Certification of intent by the owner can be shown by:

1. A signed commitment to maintain and protect forestland by documenting land-use objectives to include methods of resource management and soil and water protection; or

2. Submitting a plan prepared by a professional forester.