Forests of Montpelier

In addition to the Landmark Forest, Montpelier has over 1,500 acres of woodland, dominated by vast oak-poplar communities. To manage this woodland, the Montpelier Foundation recently hired McChesney Goodall (forestry consultant) to work with our forestry advisory committee in developing a forest management plan that applies good stewardship and long-term, sustainable use principles. In particular, we hope to manage the woodlands to meet multiple objectives including land conservation, recreational/educational use, preservation of historic resources, and sustainable timber harvesting. As we develop and implement the management plan, we will consult with various experts to devise strategies that improve forest health and productivity, protect soil and water quality, preserve resources of cultural/historical significance, and protect unique habitats and plant communities. Montpelier is committed to using our forestland and our management and interpretation of it as a "case study" that can serve as an educational opportunity for our visitors, other forest owners, and anyone interested in responsible forest management.

For woodlands that are designated as "working forests", our goal will be to implement a selective thinning program that ensures the long-term vitality and scenic quality of the forests. Specifically, our forester has recommended a strategy of selectively removing the "worst trees first" — the inferior and weakest trees in the forest that include diseased and defective trees, suppressed trees, invasive species, and those at risk to wind-throw. Once these trees are harvested, the thinning will focus on some of the larger, more valuable trees whose removal will add sunlight and growing space to the residual stand of trees. This program of harvesting is designed to improve the forest over the long term by encouraging the growth of superior trees, enhancing species diversity, creating a healthier forest, and enhancing future productivity. During all timber harvesting, "Best Management Practices" will be used to protect site quality and prevent degradation of our streams and wetlands.

With the help of the Bally Shannon Fund and the Virginia Department of Forestry, we are also developing a "Demonstration Forest" with interpretive trails and signs that will describe forest management options for different forest types including immature hardwood stands, overstocked poplar stands, deteriorating red oak stands, and old field sites overtaken by invasive species. The demonstration forest will be selectively harvested in October of 2008. Once the harvesting is completed, portions of the old field will be converted to a wildlife meadow and work on the trail will begin. By the Summer of 2009, we hope to complete the trail so it links this forest with the Landmark Forest trails, leading visitors through a series of forest types, with signs that describe the manner in which forests can be managed for multiple-uses.

This website will provide ongoing information on our forest management so that others can learn from our experience.