Managing private forestland in Vermont hinges on Vermont county foresters who are trained professionals economically and ecologically forest management. They are employed by the Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation and are the key that connects scientific forestry work and forestland owners throughout the state. Their work is critical in preserving both the ecosystems and the forestland economies. A county forester is primarily tasked with providing technical support and guidance to landowners. Instead of instructing them on what to do, these experts provide landowners with management practices for the woodlands, ways to improve wildlife habitats, and means of preventing water pollution. Together with owners, they set forest health objectives and identify priorities including invasive species control, sustainable harvesting, and climate change adaptation. Besides landowners' field visits, a Vermont county forester is also a key figure in the implementation of Use Value Appraisal, commonly referred to as "Current Use". This is a tax relief program that incentivizes landowners to maintain forestlands undeveloped and productive in return for compliance with an official management plan. Foresters guide through the process of application and make sure that the technical forestry activities conducted are in line with the standards necessary for the program.