Estate planning means planning for the willful transfer of personal property over time and after death. When it comes to a family forest, estate planning isn't just about taxes. It is also about developing a forest legacy in which future generations can share, enjoy and enhance. 

Estate planning begins with determining your goals and objectives for your property. Ties to the Land describes seven steps for successful estate planning:

1. Get Started: Estimate the value of your property
2. Look to the Future: Establish your vision and goals
3. Expand the conversation to the rest of the family
4. Create a succession plan
5. Create an estate plan
6. Build your family's ties to the land
7. Create a calendar to implement your plan

Resources to help

• Texas A&M Forest Service foresters are available to create a Forest Stewardship Plan for your property. These plans can help you think about your land objectives, ways to maintain forest health and productivity, and help develop a timeline of activities for the future. 
• Another way to learn about forest management is to attend educational workshops. These are great opportunities to invite family members to learn alongside each other. Contact the TFS office nearest you or TFS Forest Taxation program staff to find out about future events. 
• You may want to take advantage of conservation easement programs that may be available. These programs allow land to be protected as forestland in the future, and some programs offer tax advantages for adding easements to your property. Information is available by visiting the Forest Legacy Program  or by contacting the Texas Land Trust Council.