FAQs

How do Forest Carbon Credits work?

 

Industries looking to offset their carbon emissions purchase “credits” from owners of forestlands for protecting and responsibly managing those trees. The carbon pulled from the atmosphere by these trees is then sold as a “credit” to industry. This allows carbon-intensive industries to offset their total emissions, while also providing a revenue stream to forest owners

 

Can you timber during a forest carbon contract?

 

Absolutely! In fact, most forest carbon programs require that you harvest during the period of the contract. All forest carbon programs in West Virginia require that you work with a certified forester to manage your property. They will advise when and how much to harvest in a given year.

 

 

Can a forest owner extract underground minerals while under a forest carbon contract?

 

Yes! Forest carbon contracts are specific to the growth and protection of trees above ground. If a forest owner also has access to resources underground, they are free to extract them. 

 

Is participation in a forest carbon contract compatible with enrollment in the Managed Timberland program?

 

Yes! Managed Timberland requires that you engage in active forest management on your property. West Virginia’s forest carbon programs have this exact same requirement. Both provide incentives to manage your forest responsibly and actively.

 

What happens if my financial situation changes and I need to develop my property or harvest my trees before the end of my forest carbon contract?

 

Just like any contract, if you need to amend or exit the terms of the deal, you must pay any reasonable fees agreed to at the beginning of the contract.