Proposed Forest Projects for 2015
- Complete blazing and signposting of Sawyer Mt. and Palisades hiking trails and maintain existing signs, blazes, and trails in Fairlee Forest.
- Launch “Forests and Trails of Fairlee, VT” website and FFF Facebook page to disseminate information about the forest, provide virtual access for those unable to visit, expand its community of stewards and add the Forest to Fairlee's recreational attractions.
- In collaboration with the Fairlee Forest Board, construct a simple covered viewing platform on Bald Top Mt. to make the summit a more complete destination, with information on visible mountain peaks and modest shelter for visitors.
- Construct the first of several proposed information kiosks at entrances to the Town Forest trail system to orient visitors and provide current information on conditions.
- Begin annual bird inventories in sections of forest scheduled for logging in order to assess, over time, the actual effectiveness of such cuts on bird habitat. This would be done in collaboration with the Forest Board, Audubon Vermont, Vermont Center for Ecostudies, and area birding groups. Update: this project will begin in 2016.
- Explore with conservation biologists the possibility of launching other “citizen scientist” projects within the forest, such as studying impacts of deer over-population on native plants, and promoting regeneration of iconic plants like trillium and lady slipper by protecting plots with remnant specimens from browsing deer.
- Continue offering topical guided walking tours in the Fairlee Forest.
- Organize public presentations and workshops on topics such as invasive plant control and forest management practices.