2008 Required Sample Reinspections Overview
2008 Required Sample Reinspections Overview
In 2006 ATFS transitioned from a five year reinspection cycle to a statistically valid sample. The sample was initiated to reduce the workload in the states and still meet our internal monitoring needs. The sample measures conformance to the AFF Standard. It does not measure decertified vs. certified. All Required Sample Inspections must be completed. The sample is not intended to replace regular landowner contact which the states are encouraged to do as their capacity allows. Group certified properties are excluded from the sample.
For the 2008 required sample, 1,444 properties have been selected and the 004 inspection forms have been mailed to your state Tree Farm committee for distribution.
This number is slightly larger that last year’s sample size because there is no distinction between the required and replacement inspections- the replacement properties are included in the initially distributed sample. By completing all required inspections, which include the queue of replacement inspections, states will not be assigned additional required inspections later in the year. You may find your state has more required inspections in 2008 than 2007; however, there will be no replacement forms issued throughout the year. This was done in an effort to alleviate the burden of last minute inspection assignments.
With the pending PEFC endorsement, lack of completion of these inspections could seriously impact our certification credibility. The American Forest Foundation has created an incentive program to facilitate completion of the required inspections. Contact your state committee for more information on how this program is being implemented in your state.
2007 Sample Results - The 2007 sample resulted in an 89.2% completion rate with 98.3% of properties in conformance to the AFF Standard.
