July 27, 2009 The Future Of Tree Farming: From Super Trees To Tree Farm Insurance

Whether you’re starting a tree farm or own one of many American tree farms, Live Asset insurance is essential

American tree farms have been around for nearly seven decades. It all started with the goal of providing forest products in a sustainable manner. Now, tree farming is racing into the future with new techniques and a new attitude.

The difference between tree farms and forests

Mike Dubrasich wrote what he considered a paradigm-shifting book titled, “A Guide to Innovative Tree Farming in the Pacific Northwest.” Among other things, Dubrasich tackles issues facing American tree farms and the process of farming trees in general. 

In a series of blogs discussing his book, the Western Institute for Study of the Environment noted several differences between tree farms and forests:

• Tree farms are structurally different because the trees are all the same age and spaced evenly apart;
• Tree farms have either one or only a few different species of trees;
• When tree farming, the ecology of the site is determined by the grower in respect to the life of the tree, pruning, thinning and harvesting;
• Tree farms serve a different purpose than forests. They are designed as a profitable business, not a natural feature, and;
• Forests and tree farms are not managed in the same way. Tree farm management practices are meant to result in maximum profits. Forests are managed for recreation and preservation or ecology. 

The future of American tree farming

For those considering starting a tree farm, you might be surprised to see the advancements being made in the industry. Check out these super fast growing trees:

How to protect tree farms 

Most government policies exclude standing timber and specifically exclude Christmas trees. Tree farms grow inventory that is uninsured and at risk to natural disasters and things like wildfires. 

Live Asset Insurance is the only source in the country that offers our perils coverage and our limits of protection. Take a look at how important protecting your tree farm can be and the uniqueness of the tree farm insurance we offer.