The Curtis Homestead Education Program, a long-standing initiative of the Winthrop-based Kennebec Land Trust, concluded this year’s sessions at the historic 360-acre Curtis Homestead property in Leeds. Once the family farm of former Gov. Ken Curtis, the homestead now showcases sustainable forestry, wildlife habitat management, and outdoor recreation.

A student uses a diameter tape to measure a tree, learning fundamental forestry techniques. Submitted photo

The program, led by seasoned logger Nat Bell, with more than15 years of experience working at the Curtis Homestead, and supported by Julie Davenport and Shane Duigan, Maine Forest Service District Foresters, and retired biometrician Ken Laustsen, introduced students to the ecological and economic aspects of forestry. Through hands-on exercises in tree identification, sustainable logging practices, and selective harvesting, students gained valuable insights into forest health, landowner goals, and the challenges of balancing ecological needs with climate change impacts, according to a news release from John Whittaker with the land trust.

This year, participants explored forest inventory techniques, sustainable harvesting strategies, and the ecosystem role of timber management. A highlight for many was the sawmill demonstration, which illustrated the process of converting harvested trees into usable products. By bridging classroom learning with real-world forestry applications, the program provided students with a deeper understanding of Maine’s forests, their significance to the economy, and the importance of long-term sustainability.

Matthew Clark, a teacher at Skowhegan Area High School, shared the program’s impact on his students: “On Oct. 22nd, 20 of my Jobs for Maine Graduates students attended KLT’s Sustainable Forestry Program at Curtis Homestead. They were amazed by the presenters’ insights and especially excited to watch Nat Bell cut down a tree — a first-time experience for many. On the bus ride back, students even calculated the value of a log truck they spotted. It was an incredible learning day, thanks to KLT and all involved!”

The Curtis Homestead Education Program, created by the land trust and Bell, helps students explore career options in forestry and environmental fields while emphasizing the importance of environmental stewardship. The Homestead exemplifies the diverse uses of conserved lands, combining sustainable forestry, education, and recreation for the benefit of the community and environment.

The following individuals and organizations contributed time and resources for KLT’s 2023 forestry program: Nat Bell, Logger, Leeds; Julie Davenport and Shane Duigan, Maine Forest Service District Forester;s Ken Laustsen, Retired Maine State Forest Service Biometrician.

For more information, visit tklt.org or contact the land trust at 207-377-2848 or info@tklt.org.

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