In Defense of Forests

Lecture begins at 7:30pm. (Pre-lecture reception at 6pm)

You are invited to a wine-and-cheese reception followed by a special lecture with director of Harvard Forest and PHA research associate David Foster. This talk will examine the history, ecology, and conservation of forests, broadly across New England and in detail on Martha’s Vineyard. It will advance the notion that as we call on populations across the globe to stop the deforestation and degradation of forests to aid humanity in combatting climate change, those of us in one of the most heavily forested and densely populated parts of the richest country in the world should do the same. The talk will draw from the author’s recent book—A Meeting of Land and Sea: Nature and Future of Martha’s Vineyard, a forthcoming Wildlands and Woodlands report, and the botanical and ecological studies by the staff and members of the Polly Hill Arboretum.

Tickets are $100, and include entry to the wine and cheese reception with Dr. Foster, admission to the lecture, and one copy of his book, A Meeting of Land and Sea. Advanced ticket sales only. No tickets will be sold at the door.

What is it about forests?  They can be sustainably managed for wood, food, and other values while delivering clean water and air, wildlife habitat, recreation, beauty and inspiration, and essential support for human lives in a changing environment.  And yet, 24,000 acres of forests are cleared every year for housing, solar arrays, and other commercial ventures across New England.  On the Vineyard forests have no special legal standing and are routinely cleared for all manner of reasons on private and public land. The forest on the Great Plain – one of the world’s best remaining example of sandplain ecosystem – has been whittled away by housing developments, a golf course, an airport, and commercial enterprises; two towns have recently considered clearing and developing forested water supply lands; and isolated megamansions and solar arrays have perforated woods from the south shore to Chappaquiddick.

Forests are more critical than ever to support nature and society and yet they remain underappreciated and undervalued. Protecting forested landscapes and the benefits they provide are essential to ensure an environmentally and economically sound future for New England.