Agriculture and Forestry Commission (AFC), August 5, 2024, Hybrid

1. The Stockbridge Farmer's Market is going well. Kudos to Stuart Kelso. At the end of the month the farmers will discuss extending the season.

2. Lisa Bozzuto discussed plans for the Forestry Event on October 19, 2024. The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) awarded the privilege of hosting this event to Stockbridge. Lisa reported that it is shaping up well. The morning session from 8am to a break at 10 and then continuing until a box lunch will include introductions by the DCR and the AFC. A panel will discuss Fenn Farm — the acquisition by the Stockbridge-Munsee Band of Mohicans and their conservation challenges. The presentation will be followed by a panel discussion and Q&A. After lunch there will be visits to Ice Glen, Gould Meadows, and the Berkshire Botanical Garden. Kampoosa Bog may be added. The event is free. Between the cider donuts and box lunches, no one will leave hungry, and it is a celebration of Stockbridge and all we preserved, nurtured, and love.

We are excited to announce that Stockbridge will host the 2024 Massachusetts Town Forest Conference! This FREE event is a unique opportunity to connect with professionals and volunteers dedicated to the stewardship of community forests. To register, please visit the 2024 Stockbridge Town Forest Event: Registration Form (google.com)

The Massachusetts Town Forest Conference is an exceptional annual gathering that brings together a diverse group of foresters, planners, arborists, conservation commission members, land trusts, nonprofit organizations, forest landowners, and more. The conference highlights local efforts to enhance the climate resilience of our community forests and emphasizes the crucial role town forests and open spaces play in maintaining our local ecosystems.

Mark Your Calendars:

• Date: October 19, 2024

• Location: Stockbridge Town Offices

This year's conference will feature an engaging lineup of presentations, networking opportunities, and field tours that promise to be both informative and inspiring.

A Bit of History: The Town Forest Conference has deep roots dating back to 1928 when the Massachusetts Forestry Association organized the first meeting of town forest committees in Boston. These annual gatherings have consistently highlighted the practical importance of forestry management. In 2013, the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) revived the conference to commemorate the centennial of the Town Forest Act of 1913. Supported by the Working Forest Initiative and the USDA Forest Service, the 2013 conference in Fitchburg featured a tour of the first town forest established under the 1913 law. This revival has since become a key event for communities to connect over the value of open space and active stewardship.

Since its revival, each Town Forest Conference has been tailored to its host community, celebrating local achievements and reinforcing the importance of community forests and active forestry practices.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out. Contact our own Lisa Bozzuto or Mike Downey, Forest Stewardship Coordinator & Service Forester, DCR

Photo: Dick Lasner