COLUMBUS, OH - Landowners who create a forest on their property are eligible for a direct deduction from their federal taxes this year, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). "By planting trees, an individual can enjoy a 10 percent tax credit on the cost of their efforts," said John Dorka, chief of the ODNR Division of Forestry. "That means property owners spending $2,000 to establish a woodland could directly deduct $200 from the amount of federal taxes they owe."
In addition to the tax credit, landowners can deduct up to 95 percent of certain reforestation expenses over an eight-year period. Costs that the Internal Revenue Service approves for the reforestation tax credit include: the purchase of seedlings, labor and tools, site preparation and depreciation on equipment associated with tree planting. "Investing in forests is good business and good for the environment," Dorka said. "But forestry is a long-term investment and these tax-saving options help individuals to get started."
More information about the tax-saving program can be found online at the U.S. Forest Service's web site. State foresters can assist in establishing forests through advice offered by on-site consultations with state service foresters and through the sale of seedlings from the Marietta Tree Nursery.
ODNR is the largest producer of tree seedlings in the state, producing more than 3,000,000 trees each year for reforestation efforts. Selecting the proper type of tree for a particular location and soil characteristic is essential for a successful planting.
ODNR service foresters are available to help landowners in choosing the right trees for their particular objectives. This assistance is especially recommended for plantings in excess of three acres. Since state reforestation efforts began more than 80 years ago, ODNR foresters have planted more than a one-half billion trees in Ohio.
For availability of various tree species and their prices, or for a list of service forester office locations by county and telephone numbers, contact the ODNR Division of Forestry toll free at 1-877-691-8733 or online at ohiodnr.com.