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Registered Forester Program FAQs
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Is the registered forester program mandatory for foresters in Michigan?
No, the program is 100% voluntary.
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Is the registered forester program a licensing program?
No, it is a voluntary registration program, not licensing.
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Is the program open to all foresters?
Yes, any forester in Michigan may apply to participate in the program.
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Can any forester become a registered forester in Michigan?
If a forester meets the qualifications and requirements outlined in PA116 of 2018, Sec 53509 and are approved by the Michigan Board of Foresters, yes.
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Who oversees the Registered Forester Program?
Per the ruling in PA116 of 2018, the Michigan Board of Foresters oversees the program and the fiduciary for the program is the DNR.
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Can a landowner or citizen file a complaint about a registered forester?
Yes, you can use the online complaint form or pick up a paper version at a DNR customer service center.
Email your completed form to DNR-Forester-Registration@michigan.gov.
OR mail to:
Michigan DNR, Forest Resources Division
Attn: Brenda Haskill
1732 West M-32
Gaylord, MI 49735Complaints are reviewed handled by the Violations Committee within the Michigan Board of Foresters.
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Can any citizen apply to sit on the Michigan Board of Foresters?
Appointments to the Board of Forester are made by the State Forester of Michigan based on criteria outlined in PA116 of 2018, Sec 53505.
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Why did the fees increase when the program was upgraded?
The fees were increased to provide a stronger program, funding for marketing and outreach materials, and a future live searchable database of registrants.
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Are there continuing education requirements for participants?
Yes. 24 credit hours as approved by the Board of Foresters every 2 years. Participants must submit proof of credit hours as requested.
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What do the acronyms used in the program materials mean?
- RF: Registered Forester
- CF: Certified Forester (via Society of American Foresters, national certifying professional organization)
- SAF: Society of American Foresters
- ACF: Association of Consulting Foresters
- MBF: Michigan Board of Forestry
- VC: Violations Committee of the Michigan Board of Forestry
- DNR: Michigan Department of Natural Resources