Forest Defenders: Forestry Field Day
Healthy Woodlots, Invasive Management & Community Connection
Are you passionate about forest conservation? Whether you're a private woodland owner, land manager, or simply someone who cares about protecting our natural resources, mark your calendar for an exceptional educational opportunity this July.
Event details
When: Friday, July 18, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Location: Dead River Trailhead, 24 Don Fish Trail, Orland, ME GPS LINK
Cost: FREE (lunch provided!)
Requirements: Registration required - call/text 667-8663 or sign up online
Contact Info: 667-8663 or hcswcdinfo@hancockcountyswcd.org
Directions:
From Ellsworth USDA office (474 Bucksport Rd): Take the Bucksport Rd/Route 1 towards Bucksport. Go 10.6 miles and take right onto Hatchery Road.
From Bucksport McDonalds: Take Route 1 heading towards Ellsworth. Go 5.5 miles and take left onto Hatchery Road.
Once on the Hatchery Road, continue until you see the Hatchery (on left) and pass it.
Go over the little bridge and veer right on the gravel road.
Go ½ mile to the trailhead on left.
Drive about ½ mile through the large green gate at the Dead River Trailhead
Park on the left/west side of the road before the big tent (signs will be there)(please do not block any trails or roads).
Overflow parking at the trailhead lot.
Vendors & Presenters
Arrive around 10:30am
Please bring a table and pop-up in case of rain.
Vendors will have a spot under the big tent (but if you have extra canopies, please bring them to enlarge our ‘inside’ space in the case of rain)
Vendors can drive up to the tent/venue (stay on road), drop off their stuff, and then park on the left/west side of the road past the tent/venue.
Now it’s looking like Friday will be fair and sunny!
What to Bring
Your own camp chair
Rain gear (this is a rain or shine event, some rain is expected)
Bug spray and/or hats to help with deer flies
Questions about your own woodland management challenges
Learning opportunities
This comprehensive field day brings together leading experts from across Maine's conservation community to share practical knowledge about forest stewardship. The event features four engaging presentations designed to help you become a more effective forest defender:
1. Invasive Plants in Your Woods
Led by Chad Hammer, MDACF Invasive Plant Biologist, this session will teach you how to identify problematic invasive species and develop effective management strategies for your woodland.
2. Wildlands Stewardship Walking Tour
Join experts from Great Pond Mountain Conservation Trust (GPMCT) and the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) for a hands-on exploration of sustainable forest management practices.
3. Timberland Management for Pollinators & Birds
Arborist Tabatha White will demonstrate how thoughtful forest management can create habitat that supports both pollinators and bird populations - crucial for ecosystem health.
4. Tour the New Picnic Trail
Take a guided walk along GPMCT's recently updated trail system and learn how recreation and conservation can work hand in hand.
Who Should Attend
This event is perfect for:
Private woodland owners seeking practical management advice
Land managers and conservation professionals
Anyone interested in forest protection and stewardship
Community members who want to learn about local conservation efforts
Experts in Attendance
You'll have the opportunity to connect with representatives from:
Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry
Maine Natural Areas Program
Great Pond Mountain Conservation Trust
National Resource Conservation Service
Hancock County Soil & Water Conservation District
UMaine School of Biology and Ecology
Maine Forest Service
Maine Woodland Owners
Local and State Foresters
Registration Information
Please register so we have an accurate headcount for the catered lunch. Register early by calling or texting 667-8663. You can also reach out via email at hcswcdinfo@hancockcountyswcd.org for more information.
Contact Info
Contact Hancock County Soil & Water Conservation Trust 207-667-8663 or mthibodeau@hancockcountyswcd.org with any questions.
This event is hosted by Great Pond Mountain Conservation Trust, the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) and Hancock County Soil & Water Conservation District (HCSWCD). USDA is an Equal Opportunity Provider, Employer and Lender.