All Posts

Each week, long before little boots crunch across the gravel to the Caretaker’s Cabin, MFFC staff are already in motion in preparation for our twice-weekly Kits & Cubs program. Our Education Manager (Miss Elena to her PreK charges) begins the process weeks in advance, with a stop at the Manchester Community Library, to hand-pick storybooks that match a theme. Each week focuses on something relevant to the rhythms of the land, like pollinators, hibernation, maple syrup, or eve

Kits & Cubs programming will resume in march of 2026

Hadley Stock, MFFC Farmer Agroforestry is a term I’ve been getting acquainted with lately. According to the Oxford Dictionary, it’s: “agriculture incorporating the cultivation and conservation of trees.”  The USDA defines it as “the intentional integration of trees and shrubs into crop and animal farming systems to create environmental, economic, and social benefits.”  And my definition? Short answer: trees in pastures. Long answer… do you have a minute? Agroforestry is so mu

When the Leaves Turn: The Science Behind Vermont’s Colors Mike Stock Nature’s paintbrush is just about done sweeping across the mountains here at Merck Forest, and the hillsides are alive with fall colors. Standing among the sugar maples, oaks, and birches, it’s impossible not to marvel at the transformation - from deep greens to yellows, oranges, and reds. Have you ever wondered why and how leaves change color in the fall? Here’s how this magic happens. Most of the color is

The new animal barn being constructed at Merck Forest & Farmland Center will bring numerous benefits to both our educational programs and our farm team, supporting our mission of sustainability, environmental education, and agricultural stewardship.

At Merck Forest, we value the role ethical hunting plays in wildlife management and conservation. Approximately 75% of our property is open for hunting, with the remaining area designated as a Hunting Safety Zone to ensure everyone's enjoyment of the land.

It’s May. The fields are greening up, the garden beds are in, and the barns echo with the sounds of new life. 

Our heritage Romney sheep, prized for their lustrous wool and flavorful meat, connect visitors to agricultural traditions through interactive experiences like Meet the Lambs events, summer camps, and educational demonstrations that showcase sustainable farming practices and the cycle of seasons on our working landscape.

Discover the perfect trail companion for your next visit to Merck Forest! The Avenza Maps App offers a game-changing way to explore our natural sanctuary with confidence and ease.

Use these packing suggestions only as a guideline: factor in weather conditions and the length of your stay when packing. Remember that you are not permitted to drive to your campsite, so pack as lightly as possible.

Safety Tips for a Wonderful Experience Dress for the adventure : Layer up for the weather and bring gear that matches the season's mood....

Winter hiking and camping is popular at Merck Forest. What could be better than venturing into the snowy forest to explore the property by day and hunkering down by the fire in a warm cabin by night?

After months of planning, designing, and refining, we’re thrilled to introduce our brand-new website! This site is designed to improve your experience with Merck Forest & Farmland Center.