The GMF Woodland Academy’s Three-Day Intensive is designed to equip woodland owners and stewards with the foundational knowledge and practical tools needed to steward northeastern forests. Participants will engage in a combination of classroom learning and immersive field experiences in the heart of the 6,300-acre Great Mountain Forest, guided by experienced forestry professionals.

Over the course of three days, participants will develop core competencies in tree and shrub identification, explore the ecological processes that shape forest dynamics, and become familiar with a range of landowner goals and forest management approaches—from enhancing wildlife habitat to managing for timber or leaving land “forever wild.” Each module builds upon the last, ensuring participants leave with a well-rounded introduction to the science, values, and techniques behind responsible forest stewardship.

The final day focuses on connecting participants with the resources and support available to bring their goals to life. Attendees will learn about technical and financial assistance programs and get some hands-on experience with the tools of management. Whether participants are caring for family woodlands or stewarding community resources, this intensive will help them move toward their goals with greater confidence and clarity.

Know Your Trees and Shrubs: Develop participant confidence in identifying common northeastern trees and shrubs through hands-on practice with key characteristics such as bark, leaves, and branching patterns.

Understand Forests and Stewardship Choices: Introduce core forest ecological concepts alongside common landowner goals and the management techniques used to achieve them, including wildlife habitat creation, timber production, and conservation approaches like “forever wild.”

Access Resources and Tools for Action: Familiarize participants with available technical and financial assistance programs and provide direct experience with the tools used in forest management activities.

Dr. Jeff Ward, Chief Scientist Emeritus, Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station

Dr. Mike Zarfos, Executive Director, Great Mountain Forest

Rosa Goldman, Senior Associate, Forest Program, National Audubon

Julia Rogers, Senior Land Protection Manager, Housatonic Valley Association

David Beers, State Service Forester for Private and Municipal Lands, CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) Division of Forestry

Lisa Hayden, Director of Outreach & Engagement, NEFF

Ricky Bentley, Climate Smart Stewardship Coordinator, CT Land Conservation Council

This course will be split between class time and field time. Participants must be able to walk over muddy and uneven terrain, up steep grades, off trail, and to stay on their feet for several hours. They should also be prepared for inclement weather.

Lunch and snacks will be provided.

This course will be held at the historic Yale Camp in the heart of Great Mountain Forest. The camp is accessed via the forest’s West Gate to Chattleton Road, off Canaan Mountain Road, in Falls Village, CT (also known as Canaan). Participants will be sent directions.