Purchasing a chainsaw is an important step toward working safely and confidently in your woods. Here are some things to consider before making a purchase.
Women & Our Woods-VT
Empowering Women in Vermont's Forest Stewardship
Women are an increasingly significant part of Vermont's landowner population, making critical land-use decisions on nearly 1.6 million acres of the state’s forests. They own about 20% of Vermont's private forestland (475,000 acres) and co-own another 44% (1.1 million acres), providing vital public benefits such as clean water, climate change mitigation, wildlife habitat, and forest products. National trends indicate that the number of women owning forestland will continue to increase.
However, despite their growing presence, women are still less likely to engage in forest management activities because of lack of support and access to information. This is where the Women & Our Woods (WOW-VT) program comes in—supporting women in their role as forest stewards and providing the tools and community they need to succeed.
Building a Women-Centered Community
Women-led Network of Landowners & Woodland Enthusiasts
Our collaborative Women & Our Woods (WOW-VT) program is led by professionals from Audubon Vermont, Forest Stewards Guild, Vermont Coverts, Vermont Forests Parks and Recreation, Vermont Fish and Wildlife, Vermont Land Trust and Vermont Woodlands Association. We aim to bridge the gender gap in forestry by offering women-focused outreach and education across Vermont. We believe in the power of women to make a lasting impact on the future of Vermont’s forests and recognize that not everyone is able to or interested in owning land. Our community includes women landowners as well as "woodland enthusiasts," women who don't own land but care deeply about our forests. We are committed to providing the knowledge and skills needed to manage land confidently and sustainably by enhancing the coordination and delivery of women-focused outreach and education statewide.
Nurturing a Community of Practice
Our multi-tiered approach includes developing a robust community of practice using learning circles and demonstration sites; delivering educational programs in partnership with state and regional organizations; and expanding our online resources with case studies of women in different stages of their ownership journey.
Meeting Individuals Where They Are
WOW-VT supports the interests and growth of individual landowners and woodland enthusiasts by providing an array of interactive educational programs, skill-building workshops, and peer-to-peer learning opportunities. Whether you're just starting or have years of experience, our goal is to support your growth as a land steward.
News from WOW- VT
Members of WOW-VT, the Women Foresters Collaborative, and students from the University of Vermont and University of Massachusetts Amherst traveled from…
Upcoming Events
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WOW-VT Collaborators
Who We Are
We are a collective of partners united by a shared goal: connecting women landowners and woodland enthusiasts with the information, resources and support they need to make informed decisions about Vermont's forestland.
Get Involved
Are you ready to join a community of empowered women who are making a difference in Vermont’s forests?
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