Friday, October 16 and Saturday, October 17, 2026, 10:30-4:30PM
This course covers the history, changes in composition, and ecology of the Northeast region’s forests from the Ice Age through the present day. Explore the impact of past natural and human disturbances on the landscape and how current forestry practices shape forest communities.
Comfortable field clothes including boots and rain gear – we will be on the trails in the woods (We will pay attention to the weather but we will likely be in the woods rain or shine as long as there is no thunder or lightning)
Sunscreen and insect repellent if desired
Lunch, drinks, and water for the field (we will take a 45 minute lunch break in or around the classroom)
Your favorite tree identification field guide or tree ID key (not required)
A hand lens if you have one
A willingness to share forest experiences today and from your past
Recommended reading
Sprugel, D. G. (1991). Disturbance, equilibrium, and environmental variability: what is ‘‘natural’’ vegetation in a changing environment. Biological Conservation 58:1–18. (abstract available at https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/0006320791900417)
Kimmerer, R. W. (2013). Wisgaak Gokpenagen: A Black Ash Basket. In Braiding Sweetgrass. Minneapolis, MN: Milkweed Editions.
Forest ecologist, retired U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Join members of Zoo New England’s conservation team for a rare field study focused on observing and surveying orange sallow moth eggs and larvae.
Due to schedule changes, Field Study: Exploring the Flora of Pine Barrens is being postponed to spring 2027.
