I've found 40-acres for sale that may have enough timber on it to almost pay for the asking price. I'm not interested in owning the land long term (> 3 years) so this would be strictly for investment purposes.

But I have two questions.

1.- Is it feasible for a logging crew to move on site for just 40-acres worth of timber? It's mixture of hardwood and pine with probably 20% hardwood saw logs.

2. The land does not currently have an access road or easement and is surrounded by GMO timber company land. Is it worth the hassle of trying to gain access through the GMO land to cut the timber on the piece of property in question? There is a well established road about 150 yards from the property line and a skidder trail that runs a ridge from the established road to the property boundary. This will be the easiest way in for sure.

It will be some time before all the timber on the surrounding lands is cut again so I would not want to wait that long to have it cut.

I've never dealt with trying to get a temporary easement for timber cutting purposes so I was hoping someone would know if it's worth the hassle or not for just 40-acres, provided a crew is willing to mobilize for just 40-acres.

Thanks in advance-

1. Yes 2. Yes Timber company usually easier to gain access across especially if an existing road is in place. Will probably have to provide liability insurance. Contact them AFTER you get an option on the 40

Yes, yes

Agree with the first two replies. Also, I question that it would have enough timber on it to pay for the asking price. That used to happen a lot in the 90s when timber prices were booming, but it is pretty rare now. People are also much more informed about their timber value so they don't throw in the land for free. With the current landowner's permission, you could get a timber buyer to look at the property for you and give you a price on the timber. You also have to consider taxes on the timber proceeds, site prep spraying cost, and replanting cost in your figures. Timberland is a great investment, but I always tell landowners to make sure they understand all that is involved. As far as crossing GMO property, you should contact American Forest Management about getting access. For getting the timber out, whoever you sell the timber to should be able to get temporary access without much trouble at all. You may/or may not have to pay for permanent written access for yourself in the future. They will likely not grant you an easement, just access through them to get to the 40.