FAQs

These are some of the questions that we are frequently asked....

Have a question you don't see answered below?

I have a woodlot, what can I do with it?

Woodlot management is unique to each woodlot and woodlot owner. The reasons for owning a woodlot may include timber production, conservation for plants and animals, recreation, and managing non-timber products such as maple syrup, mushrooms, or specialty woods for carving.

We encourage every woodlot owner to contact a Forester to set up a consultation where they can assess your woodlot and advise you on what options are possible. You can contact your local Forest Products Marketing Board and set up an assessment.

Once you decide on the best options for your woodlot, we can help you find the expert advice you need so can manage your woodlot in a way that is right for you and your forest.

Who should you contact to report environmental violations, such as a neighbour not leaving a buffer when cutting near a stream?

Contact the Department of Environment and Local Government. This particular violation would fall under the clean water act. Wetlands information can be found there as well.

Did you know you can apply online for a Watercourse and Wetland Alteration (WAWA) permit? Click here to see more information on the GNB website.

Is there HST charged on woodlot purchases?

The sale of vacant land can be taxable or exempt for purposes of GST/HST under the Excise Tax Act. Generally, vacant land sold by individuals is exempt, subject to certain exceptions.

Find out more information on Sales of Vacant Land by Individuals (CRA)

How do I find out what the timber value is of my woodlot ?

See the Working Woodlots tab.

I want to donate / sell my land for conservation? Who can I talk to?

There are several great organizations doing land conservation work in New Brunswick. We recommend contacting several and see which one fits your needs the best. The below links are to organizations that accept donations of land, but some also purchase land to conserve.

I want to harvest my woodlot, what steps do I take?

The first step to take is contacting your local Forest Products Marketing Board, who can assist you in the process of harvesting your woodlot. The process entails an assessment of your woodland to determine areas with merchantable volume, acquiring personnel to harvest and truck your timber, determining stumpage contracts, as well as finding markets for selling your timber.

What is 'stumpage'?

Stumpage is known as the market value of standing trees that must be paid by firms for the right to harvest timber. Stumpage rates can be influenced by many factors including: harvest prescription, overall volume, quality, piece size, cost for woodlot roads, highway weight restrictions and distance to mill to name a few.

Like other markets, stumpage can also be influenced by competition. The higher number of logging contractors that compete for stumpage, can also drive prices up. This may not always be the case, as stumpage rates are based on the factors above, but also the delivered price to the mill (which is another market in itself).

How do I find out what my woodlot is worth?

Woodlot stumpage values are dependant on tree size, species, densities and quality. Woodlots also hold many other values for people and the ecosystem. Talk to your local Forest Products Marketing Board for woodlot appraisals.

Is there HST charged on woodlot purchases?

The sale of vacant land can be taxable or exempt for purposes of GST/HST under the Excise Tax Act. Generally, vacant land sold by individuals is exempt, subject to certain exceptions.

Find out more information on Sales of Vacant Land by Individuals (CRA)

Does stumpage have HST?

No, according to the Revenue Canada regulations there is no HST associated with the sale of stumpage. For more information contact your local Forest Products Marketing Board.

I want to hire a contractor to cut my woodlot. What are some things I should keep in mind?

There are many factors you should consider when hiring a contractor. Click here to see a list of things you should consider before signing a contract!