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The mission of Great Mountain Forest is to be a leader in forest stewardship. We practice sustainable forest management, promote biodiversity and resilience to climate change, support education and research, and welcome all who love the woods.
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-What’s Up with Crowded Trillium?
-News from the Forest & Collaborations
-Upcoming Programs
-A New Friend of the Forest
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What's Up with Crowded Trillium?
In the fleeting embrace of Spring, ephemeral plants blanket the forest floor with an overwhelming allure for pollinators and seed dispersers. Amidst the awakening woodland, a symphony of colors emerges. The dainty trout lily is adorned with golden hues, hepatica whispers its regal presence with delicate purple blooms, and ramps tempt with their pungent aroma. These plants have unfurled their leaves and flowers ahead of the canopy trees, so that they can take full advantage of the sun before they are once more enveloped by shade. Among these transient beauties reign several species of trillium. Set apart, a red, white, or painted trillium may seem an ethereal monument to spring. Yet, in places on the forest floor, you may see clumps of trillium breaking through the leaves in a seemingly conspiratorial gathering. The culprit however is not the plant, but an insect helper. Trillium owes its seed dispersion to an unexpected ally—the humble ant. Through the symbiotic process of myrmecochory, these industrious insects are drawn to the elaiosomes (food packets) that adorn trillium seeds. In dragging these seeds back to their nest, the ants can unwittingly aid in their journey to fertile soils away from the competition of a mother plant. Sometimes, particularly successful ants will collect many trillium seeds within their nests. Once germinated, these seeds arise as clusters of young trillium. In the transience of spring, trillium clusters remind us of the complex interconnections between species that make our forests possible.
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Throughout the month of April, GMF was deeply engaged in fostering environmental education and appreciation within the Norfolk community. Kicking off with "The Power of the Sun'' program at the Norfolk Library on the 3rd, Vicki Nelson and the children's librarians highlighted the importance of sun protection during outdoor activities, crafting "UV Kids" with UV pony beads that changed color when exposed to the sun’s rays. Later, on the 13th, an edible plant walk led by Andy Dobos revealed over a dozen spring ephemeral forest herbs, showcasing remarkable biodiversity within a small area. Vicki led GMF’s collaboration with the Earth Day Forum at Norfolk UCC Church on the 21st, where participants immersed themselves in learning about pollinators, planting native seeds, and crafting garden stepping stones. The momentum carried on as Vicki and Matt led hikes for Botelle School's Earth Day Celebration on the 22nd, educating students on tree identification and ecological interpretation. Joining with the Norfolk Library once again on the 24th, students delved into owl pellet dissection, introducing children to different owl species, their anatomy, and digestion. On the 27th, Ginny Apple led a captivating hike around Tamarack Pond, shedding light on the industrious work of beavers. On May 11th, Dr. Mike Zarfos, GMF's Executive Director, led a captivating nature walk along Camp Road, exploring forest communities and the diverse flora and fauna. | |
Beaver evidence on Tamarack Trail | |
Upcoming Forest and
Environmental Programs
Embark on a journey of discovery this May and June with Great Mountain Forest's lineup of immersive experiences. On May 18th, dive deeper into the relationship between maple syrup production and bird conservation with the Bird Friendly Maple Sugarbush Walk. Led by Matt Gallagher and Rosa Goldman, explore GMF's sugarbush, a haven recognized by Audubon for its bird-friendly habitat. We eagerly await the arrival of our 2024 forest interns on May 28th. With guidance from our foresters, they will delve into silvicultural practices and cultivate their passion for environmental stewardship. Then, starting on June 3, find solace in the tranquil embrace of nature with Lunchtime Yoga in the Forest, led by certified yoga teacher Vicki Nelson. Join us every Monday, where a harmonious blend of yoga and nature awaits, revitalizing your body, mind, and spirit amidst the serene beauty of GMF. June 6 and 7, "Game of Logging" chainsaw safety workshops come to the forest. See flyer below. On June 21st, GMF and The Norfolk Conservation Commission will host Friday Night on the Green. Join us to learn about invasive plants, native gardening alternatives, and to test your tree identification skills in a scavenger hunt on the green. Check our website’s Events page to learn more and sign up for any of these events!
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Meet Eila Darthea Zarfos!
Our newest "Friend of the Forest"
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Game of Logging- June 6 & 7 2024
Game of Logging is a program that provides hands-on chainsaw safety training and is recognized as the premier chainsaw safety course in the country. Instructors combine demonstration with participation for a successful and safe learning experience.
We are offering level 1 and level 2 on June 6-7, 2024.
There are five openings in this class. Cost: $250
Register on GMF website events page:
Events – Great Mountain Forest
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Forest Notices
Welcome to the forest!
GMF is a place of peaceful co-existence for everyone
- Keep your dog on a leash and if you pack it in--pack it out.
- Sign in at kiosks at the East and West Gates.
- Watch for inclement weather notices on social media and website.
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Stand with the Trees!
Donate to Great Mountain Forest.
Your generosity makes our work possible!
GMF is critical to the environmental and economic sustainability of the region as well as an important contributor to research and education about climate change and environmental health. Help us support the forest as a vital natural resource and a place for those who love the woods.
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