15th Annual Pfälzerwald Tree Farm Walk in the Woods

Join us for a favorite summer tradition—the 15th Annual Pfälzerwald Walk in the Woods—hosted by Al Robertson. Al’s stewardship ethic was born from his years stationed in Germany with the U.S. Air Force. Inspired by the forests of the Pfälzerwald and the German concept of Dauerwald—or “continuous forest”—Al has spent decades caring for his land using a long-term, nature-centered approach to forest management. Al manages his land using a permanent trail system, harvesting annually through single-tree and group-tree selection transitioning his woods towards un-even aged forest.

This is a field event (rain or shine) so dress accordingly. Mild to moderate hiking on rough trails is required. Limited assistance available for persons with disabilities. There is no charge for this workshop (Donations to the VWA/ Vermont Tree Farm Committee are VERY welcomed!), but registration is required!  After the walk sample Al's famous homemade hard cider and enjoy snacks and conversation! 

Bring the family for this kid-friendly event, where we will:

• Tour a unique forested wetland 
• See some champion Tamarack and cedar trees
• Check out Al's tree planting projects for climate adaptation 
• Learn about corduroy trails

Sign up!

Directions to Pfälzerwald Tree Farm:
Pfälzerwald is located in the town of Sheffield, in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont adjacent to I-91 between Lyndonville, north of St. Johnsbury, and Barton. Whether traveling north or south on I-91, get off on Exit 24,
the Wheelock/ Sheffield exit. The exit puts you on Vermont Route 122. Make a right turn on to Route 122. Travel Route 122 north approximately 6 miles through Wheelock to Sheffield. (For those coming from the west, travel to the south end of VT Rte 16, on VT Rte 15 east of Hardwick, and go north on VT Rte 16, turning on to the north end of VT Rte 122. Travel VT Rte 122 south to Sheffield). As you enter Sheffield, there is an intersection, with the Post Office on the south side. The road on the north side is Berry Hill Road. Turn and proceed up Berry Hill Road. Follow Berry Hill Road about 1.6 miles, past the intersection with Blake Pond Road/ Maple Row. At about 1.6 miles, on the left, is the gated entrance to Pfälzerwald, 1619 Berry Hill Road.

There is a large PFÄLZERWALD TREE FARM sign to the side of the entrance. Proceed, elevation- wise, always up about ¼ of a mile to the house and barn. 

Workshop sponsored by the Vermont Woodlands Association and NorthWoods Stewardship Center.