2025 Vermont Tree Farm of the Year Field Day & Celebration at the Hawkes Tree Farm

Come celebrate woodland stewardship with us at Hawkes Tree Farm as we honor the 2025 Vermont Tree Farmers of the Year – Gerry & Karen Hawkes and Family.

This nearly 50-year-old, family-owned Tree Farm is a testament to stewardship passed down through three generations. Spend the day exploring the woods, learning about Gerry's innovative forestry practices and tools for getting the work done, and connect with others who care about Vermont’s forests. This event has been approved for 4 CEUS.

What’s Happening:

• Guided Woods Walks – Follow Gerry through the forest to learn about the farm’s history, forest management strategies, and how the landscape has changed since 1969.

• Pond Ecology Fun – Kids (and curious adults) can explore pond life with Rebecca Roy, Parks Interpretive Program Manager for VT Forests, Parks & Recreation.

• The Inventions of Gerry Hawkes – See unique forestry tools, tractors, and yes… possibly the famous 4-million BTU invasive plant flamethrower in action!

• Family Activities – Hands-on fun, including a chance to build a bluebird house to take home.

• Catered Lunch & Award Presentation – Celebrate the Hawkes family’s achievement with a delicious meal and community gathering.

Event Schedule:

• 9:30–10:00 AM – Registration, coffee, tea, and treats

• 10:00–10:15 AM – Welcome (Kathy Beland & Ryan Kilborn)

• 10:15–10:45 AM – Gerry shares the history and management of Hawkes Tree Farm

• 10:45 AM–1:00 PM – Field tours (note: terrain is somewhat steep) + concurrent pond activities

• 1:00–1:45 PM – Catered lunch and award presentation (Al Robertson)

• 1:45–3:00 PM – Forestry equipment demonstrations + pond activities

Why Join Us:

This is more than a tour—it’s a celebration of Vermont’s forests, the people who care for them, and the joy of being in the woods. Whether you hike the hills, explore the pond, watch inventive forestry equipment in action, or just relax with good food and good company, you’ll leave inspired and connected.

Don’t miss this special day in the woods!
Registration is required- Space limited. 
Registration fee is :
○ $30 per person
○ $40 Family rate (for those with up to 3 kids under 14)

Register now

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