The Importance of our Forests and Why Forestry Matters

New Hampshire is the 2nd most forested state in the country.  Whether or not we are aware of it, forests provide a wide range of values and impact our lives on a daily basis. Protecting, conserving, and stewarding our forests allows all of us to enjoy these values in different ways. Join us for a lively discussion with a panel of foresters, landowners, and ecologists to hear their thoughts on our forests, and why the practice of forestry is an important part of protecting, conserving, and stewarding the forest and the values we care so much about.

Trail Work in the White Mountains

A presentation by the Appalachian Mountain Club 

White Mountain National Forest has over 1,600 miles of trail. How are these trails maintained? Forest Service staff, partners, and volunteers work together to maintain these trail for safety and public enjoyment. Recently, partners have come together for larger scale trail projects at Rumney Rocks Climbing Area and Franconia Ridge. Come learn more about the collaborations that makes your recreation experiences in the White Mountains so enjoyable.

Invasive insects and pathogens and their Impacts to New England forests.  

Native insects and diseases are important components of forested ecosystems. Invasives like chestnut blight and Dutch elm disease have dramatically changed Eastern forests, while spongy moth and beach bark disease have caused slower but significant impacts. More recent introductions to northeastern forests include hemlock woolly adelgid, emerald ash borer, and beech leaf disease. The arrival of these invasives coupled with climate change have the potential to drastically change the composition of New England’s forests. Despite these threats there are way to mitigate impacts and manage forests to be more resilient.

Wildfire in Northern New England

A presentation by John Neely

A common misconception is that wildfire is not a threat in New England. However, history tells a different story.  Join us to hear about past wildfires in New England and how fire has become an increasing occurrence with the onset of climate change. 

John Neely has been working with wildfire and controlled burning in New England for over 20 years. After retiring from the Forest Service John currently works with the State of New Hampshire Department of Natural and Cultural Resources in fire management.  In addition he is engaged in research looking at the past fire history of the region from wildfire to indigenous burning.

Saving the Headwater Forests: The Story of the White Mountain National Forest

A presentation by David Govatski

Today, the White Mountain National Forest is over 800,000 acres of public land and is visited by several million people annually. This illustrated program explores the reasons and events that led to the creation of this forest. We will look at the historical impact the forest conservation movement in New England had on the entire National Forest System.

David Govatski is co-author of Forests for the People: The Story of America’s Eastern National Forests. He retired after a 33-year career with the US Forest Service. He continues to work as a historian and naturalist.

*The presentation begins at 7:00, but we'll open up at 6:30, with drinks available to purchase.  Or opt to arrive even earlier for the 6:00 dinner buffet in the lodge (advanced dinner reservations/payment required - call 603-466-2727).

Birds of the White Mountain National Forest: From Forest Floor to Mountain Top

A presentation by Dr. David King

The White Mountains are home to hundreds of bird species occupying a range of habitats from the northern hardwoods to the montane spruce-fir forests. This presentation will focus on representative species and species folks might know or are likely to encounter that occupy the White Mountains, including quirky behaviors, details on their natural history, and how we can contribute to their conservation.

Dr. David King served as a Research Wildlife Biologist with the US Forest Service for 26 years during which he authored over 150 scientific publications and conducted research projects or consulting trips to over a dozen countries on the subject of bird and wildlife conservation

*The presentation begins at 7:00, but we'll open up at 6:30, with drinks available to purchase.  Or opt to arrive even earlier for the 6:00 dinner buffet in the lodge (advanced dinner reservations/payment required - call 603-466-2727).

The Little Brook that Changed the World: How NH's Hubbard Brook Ecosystem Study Shapes Environmental Policy and Practice, From Acid Rain to Climate Change

A presentation by Anthea Lavallee

Established in 1955 by the U.S. Forest Service in the White Mountains of NH, Hubbard Brook brings together scientific teams from more than 25 universities and research institutions. Together they explore the relationships among Hubbard Brook's plants, animals, air, water, and soils. Anthea will share key Hubbard Brook discoveries including acid rain and climate change consequences. Long-term ecosystem studies have the power to reveal otherwise imperceptible patterns, trends, irregularities, and environmental solutions. Anthea will make connections between Hubbard Brook research and our economy, ecology, culture, and quality of life as citizens of the Northern Forest.

As the Executive Director of the Hubbard Brook Research Foundation, Anthea Lavallee has a front row seat for one of the most dynamic and influential ecosystem studies in the world. In this role she strives to create a culture of environmental awareness that is scholarly and practical; reality-based and creative; equitable, actionable, and hopeful.

*The presentation begins at 7:00, but we'll open up at 6:30, with drinks available to purchase.  Or opt to arrive even earlier for the 6:00 dinner buffet in the lodge (advanced dinner reservations/payment required - call 603-466-2727).