Spitzer Demonstration Forest

When Lydia Spitzer donated over 1,350 acres of conserved forestland in 2009, a new realm of educational possibilities appeared – the ability to not only talk about sustainable practices but to test those practices in real life and show the results. Located in East Charleston, VT, our 1,475 acre property is accessible from the main NorthWoods facility, as well as from several trailheads around the property. This diverse acreage encompasses natural communities ranging from forested wetlands and beaver ponds to upland northern hardwoods and mixed forests and includes 1,800 feet of undeveloped shoreline along Echo Lake. The landscape is influenced both by a land use history of brief agriculture and intensive logging and by our northern latitude, which results in a transition forest with elements of northern hardwoods and boreal softwoods. Common wildlife species include moose, fisher, bobcat, and less common ones like rusty blackbird and black-backed woodpecker have also nested on the property. Above all, our forest is an educational tool for you- landowners, forestry professionals, and anyone curious about managing a healthy forest ecosystem.  With that in mind, we’ve added informational signs and trailside access to many of our forest management areas. Use the links below to explore our demonstration sites… or come by for a hike, and see them in real life. Our management plan includes detailed goals, stand descriptions, and our silvicultural schedule.