The Green Forestry Education Initiative

Located approximately seven miles east of university campus, the Talcott Forest consists of 90 acres in Williston. Given to the university by the Talcott family in 1962, the deed designates use of the land for educational, scientific, and extension activity. The Talcott Forest is being managed as a natural succession forest. Majestic hemlock hardwood stands characterize the eastern section, while beech-birch-maple stands comprise the heart of the forest. You will also find white and red pine plantations located within this forest. Adding to this picturesque location are two streams.

Historically, the Talcott Forest has been popular with nordic skiers and hikers. Although the forest is visited often by hikers, there are not set trails or road access into the forest, which limits access for research, teaching, and extension services in this forest. Yet, it’s close proximity to the UVM campus makes it valuable for use in basic courses such as Dendrology or for studying wildlife habitat. Feel free to go off the beaten path and enjoy this forest, but remember to be respectful of the area so that others can also enjoy all that it has to offer.

DRIVING DIRECTIONS:
Before visiting the Talcott Forest, be aware that there are no parking facilities or direct road access into this forest. Also, be careful of the season, if you are visiting during a hunting season remember to wear bright clothing and make some noise.

Following Route 2 out of Burlington, towards Richmond, you will pass through Taft Corner and eventually come to Williston Village. Once in the village you will come to a four way stop sign with a white church on the corner. Take a left onto North Williston Road. Exactly 1 mile down this road turn right onto Governor Chittendon Road. About a 1/2 mile down this road you will see a parking sign for Catamount Family Center. Across from this sign you will see a large white farm house and a dirt road. This is where vehicular transportation must end. Walking down the farm road until it ends will bring you to a hill, climb to the top of this hill and the Talcott Forest will be in front of you.


	Located approximately seven miles east of university campus, the Talcott Forest consists of 90 acres in Williston. Given to the university by the Talcott family in 1962, the deed designates use of the land for educational, scientific, and extension activity. The Talcott Forest is being managed as a natural succession forest. Majestic hemlock hardwood stands characterize the eastern section, while beech-birch-maple stands comprise the heart of the forest. You will also find white and red pine plantations located within this forest. Adding to this picturesque location are two streams. Historically, the Talcott Forest has been popular with nordic skiers and hikers. Although the forest is visited often by hikers, there are not set trails or road access into the forest, which limits access for research, teaching, and extension services in this forest. Yet, it’s close proximity to the UVM campus makes it valuable for use in basic courses such as Dendrology or for studying wildlife habitat. Feel free to go off the beaten path and enjoy this forest, but remember to be respectful of the area so that others can also enjoy all that it has to offer. DRIVING DIRECTIONS: Before visiting the Talcott Forest, be aware that there are no parking facilities or direct road access into this forest. Also, be careful of the season, if you are visiting during a hunting season remember to wear bright clothing and make some noise. Following Route 2 out of Burlington, towards Richmond, you will pass through Taft Corner and eventually come to Williston Village. Once in the village you will come to a four way stop sign with a white church on the corner. Take a left onto North Williston Road. Exactly 1 mile down this road turn right onto Governor Chittendon Road. About a 1/2 mile down this road you will see a parking sign for Catamount Family Center. Across from this sign you will see a large white farm house and a dirt road. This is where vehicular transportation must end. Walking down the farm road until it ends will bring you to a hill, climb to the top of this hill and the Talcott Forest will be in front of you.