Hello. We own a small tree farm in Upper Michigan (20 acres) and have an opportunity to purchase an additional adjoining 40 acre parcel of forestland directly behind our property. The parcel supports a good number of mature conifer, ceder, & mixed northern hardwoods. Acreage in this area is generally selling for about 1000/per; however this parcel is land-locked and has no legal easement or access to it. It is being offered for 22,000. We would love to purchase the property to incorporate with ours, but definitely do not have financial resources or ability to afford another mortgage. I have been searching all over the internet for information regarding grants, loan options, rural landowner assistnce programs, etc, that might help make purchase of this parcel more feasible & realistic. I found your websight in my search & was interested in another reader's question concerning a forest lands purchase. I am wondering if you would have any advise, information, or suggestions on where I might look to find some funding or finance assistance options specifically designed to aid rural landowners in purchasing adjacent properties for conservation & wildlife management purposes?

Greetings Roger:

I guess my first suggestion would be to contact the forestry division with the Michigan Dept. of Natural Resources and your local extension forester with Michigan State University. They may be able to provide you with more "local" advice as it pertains to Michigan forest landowners.

Here in Illinois, there are numerous banks that have agricultural segments which specialize in land purchases and finance. Another option is the Farm Bureau (www.michiganfarmbureau.com) - they usually have some unique programs available to Farm Bureau members.

Best of luck!