The Virginia Department of Forestry is looking for VMN volunteers to help them with their forest improvement project at the New Kent Forestry Center. Through this project, superior loblolly seed is collected in order to grow a new generation of pine seediLngs that will be used for reforestation projects across the state. The work takes place in New Kent County, but there is some housing available and this is a project with statewide impacts and with one of our state sponsors, so that makes it possible for further-away chapters to participate if you are interested. Of course, our close-by chapters are highly encouraged as well!
Dates: Mondays-Saturdays, October 4-21 (as weather permits)
Times: 8 AM – 5 PM (volunteers are asked to commit to at least one full day at minimum)
Location: New Kent Forestry Center, 11301 Pocahontas Trail, Providence Forge, VA?
Activity: Collecting and organizing loblolly pine cones is the primary activity. If there is an abundance of volunteers, there may be other stewardship projects at the site.
Other details: Housing and/or camping is available for some of the dates, and some meals may be provided as well. The New Kent Forestry Center is a beautiful location with hiking trails and lots of wildlife, and it is well worth a visit. A description of the ecology of the site can be found at http://www.dgif.virginia.gov/vbwt/site.asp?trail=1&loop=CPL&site=CPL08. You can do some hiking at the end of the day, and Forestry Education Specialist Lisa Deaton will be there with trail maps to help orient you.