Predicting Nonindustrial Private Forest Landowners' Choices of a Forester for Harvesting and Tree Planting Assistance in Alabama

Nonindustrial private forest (NIPF) landowners often seek technical assistance from public, consulting, and industry foresters. This study uses a multinomial logit model to investigate factors influencing landowners’ choices of a specific type of forester for harvesting and tree planting assistance. Income and preparation of management plan are significant predictors in both cases. In addition, species composition is a significant factor in the choice for harvesting assistance, and size of ownership and time spent in forest management are significant factors in the choice for tree planting assistance. The results may be useful to assist foresters in developing their marketing strategy. Policy implications for the design and delivery of technical assistance are discussed. South. J. Appl. For. 25(3):101–107.