Three regional experts in forest ecology discuss the vital role that forests play for us and for the planet and their complexity as systems. This is the first of three conversations on declining biodiversity in Upper Valley forests. Join us in person in the Mayer Room or online via Zoom. No registration required in person; register for Zoom here.

This program is co-sponsored by the Hanover Conservation Commission/Biodiversity Committee, the Howe Library, and partners.

Forests include trees, understory plants, wildlife, insects, and microbes in the soil. The speakers will provide a brief history of New England’s forests, and the many ecological, cultural and economic services and benefits that these forests provide for us and for our planet. Today, there are concerns about the health of our forests and their ability to regenerate. Forests will be impacted by global warming, and, by sequestering carbon, have a reciprocal impact on warming. We will learn about some of the research on this. Other observed stresses upon forest health will be addressed in following sessions.

Panel:

•    Joseph Tumber-Dávila, Assistant Professor of Environmental Studies, Dartmouth College
•    Ethan Tapper, Chittenden County Forester 
•    Katharine Servidio, Forest Economy Program Manager for VT

Moderator: Meg Sheehan, Lyme Conservation Commission