Winter Walks co-sponsored with Branch Hill Farm
In late February, MMRG co-sponsored a Winter Wildlife Walk with Branch Hill Farm (BHF) on BHF forest lands in Milton. Although the mild winter had already diminished the snow cover and obliterated many of the wildlife tracks that usually criss cross it, there was still evidence of animal activity to be found and much to learn from the presenters, Charlie Bridges and Rich Cook of NH Fish & Game. They pointed out some scat of wild turkeys, which were starting to be actively mating, and showed how male and female scat can be distinguished. They also discussed how to improve timber pine stands through pruning of the lower branches. Participants enjoyed the beautiful woods and trail down to the Jones Brook as well as the opportunity to meet like-minded folks interested in conservation, wildlife, and forestry.Branch Hill Farm consulting forester Charlie Moreno led a forestry walk for MMRG on new trails in the BHF forest lands along the Branch River in Milton. Charlie shared how the forester first walks through the stand and identifies by flagging the trees that are cut for timber, pulp, or firewood; he then showed piles of the three types of lumber products. Charlie explained that he prefers to use a fairly light weight John Deere 440 skidder that is less likely to compact soils than newer equipment. He also led the group to several carefully planned timber cuts in order to show the seed trees, cover trees, wildlife trees, and multi age trees of various species that were left intact, while removing the invasive plants. A new trail along the Branch River demonstrated how a carefully managed forest preserves wildlife habitat. The group observed several vernal ponds that will soon be teaming with life, a porcupine nest high in a tree with a pile of fresh droppings below, pileated woodpecker holes in a hardwood tree, and some beaver activity.Branch Hill Farm/the Carl Siemon Charitable Trust co-sponsored both events with MMRG. Thanks to Jones Brook LLP, the business sponsor of our Branch Hill Farm New Trails Forestry Walk!