The Pioneer Forest

The pioneer forest was once an old pine forest, but in the late 80's, an attack by pine bark borer beetles started destroying the trees. By 1992-1993, they all had to be cut down. Rather than re-cultivate the area, we allowed one part to go wild and we edited the other part, i.e. chose from what the birds had planted - keeping some and removing others. Now the pioneer forest provides an example of forest succession in action and provides a wonderful home to those of us who prefer to live in open areas, along edge and/or in shrubby habitat.

A maze of pathways mowed into the pioneer forest allows visitors to choose their own adventure as they explore this habitat... just don't get lost! Special things to look for include cedar and white pine saplings, queen anne's lace, pokeberry, aster, mullen, rabbits, snakes and all manner of birds.

On the garden side of the arched bridge you will find the pioneer forest learning station with activities and information on the residents of this habitat.