Welcome! And thank you for your interest in becoming a NextGen Forest Steward.

By completing this form, you’ll join our pool of candidates eligible for a matching process that connects emerging stewards with small forest landowners who are retiring from active management and seeking someone to carry their legacy forward. Depending on your experience, financial circumstances, and our current roster of properties, opportunities may include paid mentorships and potential ownership pathways.

A non-refundable $70 fee covers the cost of a background check and application review. If you pass the initial screening, you’ll be asked to provide references and identification. If you are successfully matched, you’ll sign a preliminary stewardship agreement outlining your responsibilities. All land transfers include a 1% matching fee (based on the final sale price) and a commitment to volunteer service within our community of small forest stewards.

Please note that if you pass the initial screening, you will be asked to provide the following:

• The names and contact information of three references (not family members) who can speak to your character and skills.

• A photo of your driver’s license and a profile photo of yourself, as well as any family members who will be joining you.

Please note that if you are successfully matched with a retiring steward, you will be asked to sign a preliminary stewardship agreement outlining your responsibilities as a NextGen steward. All land transfers include a 1% matching fee (based on the final property sale price) and a commitment to volunteer service within our community of small forest stewards.