Vermont Tree Farm Field Day: A Celebration of 2024 Vermont Tree Farmers of the Year 

The Vermont Woodlands Association’s (VWA) Tree Farm Program is proud to announce the 2024 Vermont Tree Farmers of the Year, Mark and Catie Raishart, with a special event at their Foxglove Farm on Saturday, September 21st, 2024. This event is open to everyone—from those interested in learning more about sustainable woodland stewardship, to forestry professionals. Join us for a fun-filled day of hands-on learning about Vermont’s forests and sustainable woodland stewardship. 

Foxglove Farm, nestled between the Green Mountains and Champlain Valley, offers a unique blend of land stewardship and agritourism. We will spend the day exploring their 68-acre property, which includes a working forest, maple syrup production, and more, as well as engaging in hands-on family activities like building a bluebird house, dissecting owl pellets, and a wetland exploration with VT Department of Conservation Wetland Ecologist, Zapata Courage.

The Vermont Tree Farmer of the Year award recognizes landowners who exemplify the best in sustainable woodland management. This prestigious honor is given to individuals or families who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to forest stewardship, including the protection of wildlife habitat, water resources, and the overall health of the forest ecosystem. Awardees also engage in educational efforts, sharing their knowledge and passion with others to promote the long-term sustainability of Vermont’s woodlands.

“We are proud to honor woodland stewards like Mark and Catie Raishart and family for their commitment to improving the health of their woodlands, while teaching others of all ages how to be good stewards of the land,” says Kathy Beland, Vermont Tree Farm Program Administrator.

As part of the VT Tree Farm Field Day,  the Raishart family will be recognized as the 2024 VT Tree Farmers of the Year for their dedication to sound and diverse forest management throughout their property. Since becoming a certified Vermont Tree Farm in 2016, the Raishart family has worked tirelessly to enhance wildlife habitat, promote biodiversity, and maintain important ecological features, while actively managing their woodlands for wood products, maple sugaring, and recreation. Their passion for education and sharing the joys of woodland stewardship with others shines through in all they do.

Don’t miss this chance to explore one of Vermont’s exemplary Tree Farms and connect with a community that values responsible forest stewardship. Registration is required. All are welcome, and the registration fee is a suggested donation to help cover food costs—however, everyone is encouraged to join, regardless of ability to pay.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, September 21st, 2024

Time: 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM

Location: Foxglove Farm, Leicester, VT

Suggested Donation: $30 per person, $40 per family suggested donation. Kids under 14 are free.

Register