Merck Forest & Farmland Center

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

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

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.