Sample Contracts

Since there is no such thing as a standard, concise, all purpose timber sale agreement, it’s good to start with a handful of examples. A variety of sample contracts can be acquired from your local Idaho Department of Lands office, timber company, soil conservation district, or extension agency. These generic contracts are often used as a basis for building a specific agreement and with them you can create a document tailor-made to fit your harvest situation.

The Document

Let’s look at the substance of a good timber sale contract. Most importantly, it is as short and simple as possible, with clear wording in plain language. The terms are understandable, executable and enforceable. Although such an agreement will not cover every eventuality, it will set some important guidelines.

A checklist is provided below which highlights appropriate information needed in a complete document.

Framing a Contract

Good sample contracts will address most major issues. Combine the best terms from several samples. Also, see your IDL Private Forestry Specialist for help. Although the PFS cannot write the contract, they can equip you with a menu of terms covering harvest practices and recommend clauses you should consider.

With all this information, you can mix, match, add, delete, or write your own terms of sale. Be careful, more restrictions usually result in higher logging costs. Just include enough requirements to accomplish your objectives and protect your interest.

Have a forester and a lawyer review your draft. There is safety in an abundance of counselors.

Administration

Finally, consider this. Your contract is a tool that protects your interests, conveys your desires, details procedures, and assigns responsibilities. But a successful timber harvest does NOT depend only on a well written document. It depends on communication and implementation. A contract not administered is a tool not used. Keep watch over your harvest operations. Administer your contract to achieve your goals.