In Search of the Great White Pine - Old Growth Forest Hike & Learn

Also posted in my south shore group

When Europeans first settled New England in the 1600s over 90 percent of the land was covered by old growth Forests. Now there is only 1/10 of one percent left in all of New England. The Mohawk Trail State forest has a few old growth stands.

The Great White Pine is a New England Treasure. Long sought after by Kings and Countrymen for everything from Ship Masts, Homesteads and Furniture. There aren't many mature White Pines left.... But there are a few in Mohawk Trail State forest. These Majestic beauties stand over 150 feet tall and some are 13-14 feet in circumference at the base.

I don't have a PHD in forestry but I do have a love for these wonders of nature. So on our hike I'll talk about the history of our forests and how they have evolved over the past few centuries and why they must be preserved for future generations.

I will share all I know with you and I'm sure I'll learn from you.
This is a great video to get you started - I'll post some others as well.
https://youtu.be/Vi12xaJxA5U

Bring Water, Snacks and lunch. We'll stop by the Deerfield river for lunch.
Cell service is poor, at best, along the Mohawk trail. So please reach out early if you're going to be late. I would suggest to plan on arriving 30 minutes early so we can get moving on time.

It's pretty easy to get to. The Mohawk Trail State Forest is righty on RT2 in Charlemont. We'll meet right at the front gate.