Researcher in straw hat uses planting bar to plant seedlings in cleared area of forest.

The Wolcott Research Forest consists of 130 acres in Wolcott, Vermont. Originally a leased lot, UVM began managing the forest and conducting research there in the early 1960s. Research plantations make up approximately 30 acres of the Wolcott Research Forest, with the remaining 100 acres a mixture of spruce-fir and hardwood forest.

History

Prior to the research efforts by UVM, parts of the forest experienced heavy timber harvesting, while about 40 acres of open field existed in the east-central part of the forest. In 1965, UVM began early research at the Forest related to Christmas tree and fir production, with experiments focused on fertilizers, herbicides, deer repellent, tree diseases, and plant genetics. These projects encompassed 30 acres of the field, while about 10 acres began succeeding to forest. These experiments ended in the 1990s, although remnant overgrown fir trees are still visible today.

Present Use

In 2017, UVM planted seedling to examine growth and survival of tree species projected to adapt well to climate change. In 2023, UVM cleared the former Christmas tree nursery and planted red, white, and chestnut oak to test growth and survival of these species from different seed sources across the eastern United States.

Driving Directions

From Morrisville, Vermont, take Route 15 east which will take you into the town of Wolcott. Once in Wolcott, turn left onto Town Hill Road and continue for 4 miles. Turn right onto East Hill Road and Wolcott Research Forest is on the right after approximately ¾ of a mile. Park outside the gate along the road.

Download a trail map of Wolcott Research Forest (PDF).

Map showing trails at Wolcott Research Forest

Researcher in red vest in forest.

Other UVM Forests

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