Abstract: The United States of American is one of the most developed nations in forestry. Research on incentive mechanism of private forest in U.S.A. can provide reference to China. Based on statistical data and literatures published recently, this paper analyzes current status of private forest in U.S.A., introduces four incentive mechanisms at both governmental and non-governmental levels for developing private forest, and makes comparative analysis on these four mechanisms. Finally, countermeasures are put forward for constructing and perfecting incentive mechanisms by consideration of forest management practices in China.