Join OCCA for a unique, hands-on introduction to forest management at Thayer Farm. Led by professional consulting forester Kellen Murphy, this program offers a behind-the-scenes look at how foresters read the landscape and make decisions that shape the health and future of our forests.

We’ll begin with a brief indoor overview (optional, weather dependent), where Kellen will introduce the fundamentals of forest management planning—what landowners consider, how goals are defined, and the tools foresters use to assess forest conditions. Then we’ll head outside for a guided walk through the woods, where participants will see these concepts in action.

Along the way, we’ll explore how to evaluate tree health and species composition, identify signs of past management or natural disturbance, and discuss strategies for balancing ecological health, wildlife habitat, and long-term sustainability. Whether you’re a landowner, outdoor enthusiast, or simply curious about the woods around you, this program will offer practical insights into how forests are cared for over time.

Kellen Murphy brings over a decade of experience managing private timberlands across New York and has developed forest management plans for more than 10,000 acres .

Please wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for uneven terrain.

Use the form below to sign up.