Dec. 12, 2018 (Newbury, VT) – Iconic forestland in northern Vermont has been permanently conserved as a community forest, thanks to a grant from the Open Space Institute (OSI) to Vermont Land Trust. The project conserves habitat, while providing forest-based recreational and economic opportunities for this community about 40 miles east of Montpelier, Vermont.
The new, 636-acre “Tucker Mountain Town Forest” includes Newbury’s highest-elevation point. Featuring panoramic views, abundant wildflowers, productive forests, and excellent nesting habitat for birds, the land is also a favorite recreational area for hikers, cross-country skiers, snowmobilers, mountain bikers, and others.
The Tucker Mountain Town Forest was supported though OSI’s Community Forest Fund, which enables the creation and expansion of community forests in Northern New England. In the Community Forest model, local citizens participate in the planning and management of forests, ensuring that everyone benefits from the land’s many economic, social, and ecological values.