The Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests and UNH Cooperative Extension will host a guided timber harvest tour on Wednesday, Aug. 19, from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. along the Marlboro Trail on Mount Monadnock.
The educational field trip will offer participants a firsthand look at sustainable forestry and silviculture in a working forest. Guides will demonstrate how trees are selected for harvest, compare recent and historical timber cuts, and discuss strategies for protecting forest health, wildlife habitats, and recreation networks amid climate change.
The event features a two-mile hike with strenuous elevation gain and off-trail walking. Participants are advised to wear sturdy hiking boots and bring water. Organizers also noted that ongoing roadwork at Route 124 and Monadnock Street may add up to 30 minutes to travel times.
Pre-registration is required, and registered attendees will receive specific meeting details and weather updates by email. Registration and questions can be directed to Wendy Weisiger by phone at 603-224-9945 or by email at wweisiger@forestsociety.org.
The Forest Society acquired its first parcel on Mount Monadnock in 1914 and currently manages more than 4,500 acres on the mountain. While higher elevations are designated as permanent ecological reserves, the lower acreage is maintained as a productive working forest.