Lord Timber, LLC, made up of four brothers who own land near Glenmora, was named 2006 Tree Farmers of the Year for their 5000-acre forestland. The award was made during the annual convention of the Louisiana Forestry Association (LFA) Aug. 30 in Shreveport

The land was purchased by their grandfather John B. Jameson and handed down to them by their late mother.

"This property is probably the most intensively managed tree farm in Louisiana or perhaps the southeast United States," said Ron Prewitt, consulting forester who nominated the group. Ripping and bedding, herbicides, prescribed burning and fertilization are all techniques used on the property.

Their grandfather purchased the land in the 1930s when it was cutover range land. The brothers, who all live in New England, worked summers as youths learning about the Louisiana farm. This summer they brought their 10 children ranging in age from 15-25 years old for a two-day seminar on forestry to the Glenmora forest in the heat of July.

"We need to get them interested in the property," said John Lord, who represented the family at the Shreveport meeting.

The blend of talents found in the family helps keep the management plan fresh and innovative. Steve Lord is the managing partner and a forester in New Hampshire. John lives in Massachusetts where he is a retired from the investment business, including experience managing timber investments. Tim is also involved in the financial markets and Rob is retired but for many years ran a tree service business.

The family tutorial was planned before they were named the Outstanding Tree Farm. The Lords said they hope to pass the land down to another generation who appreciate the value of forestry.

"Forestry is a big part of Louisiana," said C.A. "Buck" Vandersteen, LFA executive director. "Half of our state is forested and the beauty and economic value comes from committed landowners like the Lords. We are happy to recognize good stewards of the land."

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