Thank you for visiting the W. D. Cowls, Inc. Land Company!

The Cowls family bought its first timberland in Amherst, MA in 1741 and has sustainably managed timberland in western Massachusetts ever since.  Now in its 9th generation of family management, W. D. Cowls, Inc. owns and manages thousands of acres of timberland on over 80 parcels of land in 28 towns in western Massachusetts.   

As a 50 plus year member of the American Tree Farm System, Cowls foresters adhere to the strict standards of the world's oldest sustainable forestry and certification program. Cowls timberland is inspected every five years to ensure proper forest management which includes the conservation of soil, water, and wildlife. Multiple use, wildlife conservation, recreation, and watershed protection are important factors in managing the woods for timber production.

W. D. Cowls seeks business opportunities to diversify its forest-based activities while continuing its sustainable management of timberland.  Cowls timberland in Franklin and Hampshire Counties has great potential for natural resource production, telecommunication facilties, rural enterprises and more.

Cowls' timberland is open and accessible for public recreation. Our rule is that recreationists are welcome to hike, bike, snowmobile, ride ATVs and horses, hunt, fish, and short-term camp on Cowls land, as long as these recreationists respect others rights to peacefully enjoy the same.

Find additional information within the website or on our new brochure! 

Cowls is the proud recipient of several Awards for sustainable forest management:

• 2005 National Hardwood Lumber Association Forest Stewardship Award
• 2007 International Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies Private Lands Stewardship Award
• 2007 American Tree Farm System/ American Forest Foundation Outstanding Achievements in Sustainable Forestry
• 2009 US Department of the Interior Cooperative Conservation Award
• 2012 Massachusetts Forest Landowners Association Massachusetts Forest Stewardship Award