A lot of the county Foresters I've run into here in Vermont are reluctant to recommend specific consulting foresters. They are concerned that they would appear to be abusing their positions to steer business to their friends. Likewise, if they said "that guy stinks", they could open themselves up for some hassles or legal trouble from the forester in question.
One way around this: ask them for names of people or organizations who have some experience in your area, and who might be able to make a recommendation. For example: "Can you put me in touch with a landowner in my area who recently had some work done that you/they thought was well done, so I can speak to them about their experience?".
One organization that may be a good resource is
New Hampshire Coverts (or call 603-862-2166). They are focused mainly on educating landowners on wildlife habitat issues, and how wildlife habitat management can be integrated into a plan managing for timber, recreation or other uses. The various members have a lot of different experiences, and can share information with you about Foresters they've worked with in your area. They sponsor a number of useful workshops on forest management issues. This is not just a group of tree-huggers. Most are involved with or interested in working forests.
I'm heavily involved in Vermont Coverts, a similar organization here in Vermont. I've found it a great resource over the years, and an interesting gathering of people with various views and experiences.
John Mc
