The Forest Legacy Program protects environmentally important forests threatened by conversion to nonforest uses. The Federal government, along with states and local partners, buys the right to restrict development of the land, or purchases the land from willing sellers outright, to keep it in its natural state. Landowners may continue to own their land or sell it to someone who wants undeveloped forestland. State or local partners provide at least 25 percent of the funds. Each state decides whether to participate in the program.
Priority is given to lands that can be effectively protected and managed.
Participating states have identified areas that are important because they may protect water quality, provide key wildlife habitat, offer outstanding recreation opportunities or scenic views, or contain historical sites, while providing the opportunity to continue traditional forest uses such as timber harvesting. Any landowner within one of these designated areas may apply for consideration. Landowners are required to have management plans and to manage their land according to the plan. The USDA Forest Service State and Private Forestry branch administers the program with the states. Currently, not all states participate in the program.