I have almost 40 acres of land that is rolling hills and gulleys, typical southwest VA topography. About half of the land is what I would consider mature, not much light makes it to the ground because of the thick canopy and that detracts from the new forage that just doesn't grow in these thick areas. I'm thinking about trying to get some of the trees logged to open up the area.

I don't know what type of trees I have, some pines, what type I don't know. Some hardwoods, some oaks, which I will not allow to be cut, and some others. I know that my first step is to consult a forester, but I don't want any logging until deer season is over for the year. That will be in January, so I have some time to get enough info. I just wonder how much I could get per acre? I'm looking for ballpark figures.

I realize that the money is just one benefit of getting my land logged. I would only allow about 20 acres to be clear cut, so I'm even wondering if a logging co would be interested in that?

Obviously I don't know anything about timber so I'm at the mercy of this board, any advice or your experiences would be appreciated and thanks.