Reminder: Apply to MDARD's Qualified Forest Program by Sept. 1!

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is encouraging private landowners to enroll in the Qualified Forest Program (QFP) for the 2027 tax year. This program encourages good stewardship of Michigan's natural resources by providing two potential tax benefits to private landowners who manage their forests in a sustainable way.

Private landowners can apply to the program by submitting the following items to MDARD:

• A QFP application form
• A QFP stand summary and harvest schedule
• A copy of your most recent deed and/or land contract
• A copy of your tax bill(s)
• A forest management plan
• A $50 application fee

When applying to the QFP, landowners should remember that:

• Land parcels must be 20 acres or larger
• A forest management plan must be written for the property by a qualified forester
• Enrolled landowners must pay an annual fee
• Public access to the land is not required
• Buildings and structures are allowed but are not eligible for tax exemption
• The property is generally non-homestead; it may be homestead on structures and non-homestead on the land

To receive tax exemptions for the 2027 tax year, you must submit your QFP application by September 1, 2026.

For more information and eligibility requirements, visit MDARD's QFP website.

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