Become a Forest Steward

 An Excellent Volunteer Opportunity at the New England Forestry Foundation.

New England Forestry Foundation (NEFF) owns 130 community forest properties throughout New England that were donated for conservation, long-term forest management, public enjoyment and education. These community forests provide a model of sustainable management and inspiration to forest landowners. Our forests range in size from 10 to 2,000 acres and are located in suburbs, villages, rural areas and secluded countrysides. The accessible locations of many NEFF forests afford an ever-increasing number of visitors a chance to interact with nature in a communal backyard.

You are invited to become a Forest Steward. Forest Stewards adopt a NEFF Community Forest in their neighborhood and monitor the land throughout the year. In addition, Forest Stewards serve as the community ambassador on behalf of NEFF. Forest Stewards share the desire to make a real difference in their communities, a love of the outdoors, and an eagerness to learn. Forest Stewards are offered the opportunity to attend training sessions including topics such as: forest ecology, forest management, trail maintenance, exotic invasive plant control, and the use of compass & maps. Attendance at an orientation meeting is required to become a Forest Steward.

The exact responsibilities of Forest Stewards will vary with your interests. Ideally, Forest Stewards will live within 10 miles of the chosen Community Forest and be able to visit the property year-round. An effective Forest Steward will report to NEFF quarterly about information gathered during site visits including: any vandalism or misuse of the property; plant and wildlife sightings; and other forest stewardship needs. During site visits, Forest Stewards should plan on removing any trash and debris, and performing basic trail maintenance, if needed.

There are many benefits of becoming a Forest Steward: