The art of being self-employed as a forest owner

Sometimes I get asked if I am self-employed in the woods. Most of the time I feel a little embarrassed. “I don’t drive the chainsaw,” I say a little cautiously. “However” I add afterwards, because I really want to be someone who actively works with my forest. I want to be self-employed.

To encourage myself I try I still think about all the things I do in the woods after all. So this year I go around all the forest paths. Overcoming all roadsides, slippery roads, repairing broken and blocked road culverts, joints and ordering gravel when needed. Then it’s time to check for possible game damage and spruce bark beetle attacks. If the damage isn’t too great, I’m happy to wander through the woods. Earlier this year, I was out and about coordinating signs of rain and snowfall and making sure they were taken care of and expelled. No, I don’t do it myself. But I make sure to get it done.

Then it was time to review the previous procedures in the forest, such as how the plantings were done and what they looked like after the trees were cut down, thinned and cleaned in the winter, and that everything had happened as intended. Perhaps they should be prepared and planted this year, and it is better to check how they turn out. Fortunately, I have a great forestry advisor who I meet with every fall to discuss work for the coming year, so I always have this plan with me when I’m out in the woods. This year I’ve also been able to carve out some time to clear my own business, and with a buzzer in my hands I feel at least a little self-employed, which is a nice feeling.

Usually towards the end of fall It also goes well To combine a bit of mushroom hunting with a look at the rough fairways and complement them with rough pass sticks and a little bit of space where necessary to get clear boundaries. Since hunting times are approaching, it is also a good idea to get a clear idea of ​​game numbers and possible injuries and to have a dialogue with the hunting team. Another fall activity is reviewing finances. Can any actions be added earlier or later to get a better result? In many cases, a few hours at the desk are well invested.

Finally, I take time to feel the forest itself. you know what i mean. The swaying treetops, the chirping of birds, the calm and the colours. Pure joy. Coexist with the forest. So it’s probably going to be some time in the woods anyway, even if the chainsaw isn’t included. Next time someone asks me if I’m self-employed, I’ll probably take a deep breath and say yes. At least a little…

Helena Lottgren, owner of Lindesberg Forest