North Bear Swamp Road , Middlesex, VT 05602(Washington County)

Variation in terrain creates two distinct geographical segments of the forest: the steeper, western half which rises to Burnt Mountain, and the more gently-sloped eastern section with its easily accessible terrain. The forests western section faces east with terrain rising steadily from east to west, culminating at Burnt Mountain. A mountain stream runs through this section from its headwaters at Burnt Mountain to an open-water beaver bog along the road frontage. Terrain for the eastern section of the forest generally rises south to north, providing a southerly aspect over mostly gentle slopes. Much of this terrain is south of the internal road and easily accessible. From this section, there are attractive views of the mountains and the more settled land towards Montpelier to the south. The propertys southeastern area provides level homestead opportunity and relatively close proximity to town road services and power. As an extreme homesteading site, the vast landscape at the end of the internal road provides a compelling, big country location, unparalleled by many spots in Vermont. Here, the scenic Worcester range, less than a mile to the west, sits at the door.

The forest has benefited from a long tenure of professional stewardship. The current Capital Timber Value (CTV) accounts for 48% of the purchase price, with the balance realistically covering the bare land value held by the propertys multiple-use opportunities. The forests upland terrain has resulted in a timber resource dominated by northern hardwoods. The maples are the major species, followed by yellow birch and spruce/fir. Over the past 6 years much of the silvicultural activity focused on establishing regeneration through textbook shelterwoods and seedtree treatments covering roughly 140 acres. In these areas, the most superior stems were retained, evenly spaced, with all other stems removed. Thinning occurred on about 92 acres along with roughly 8 acres of clear cutting in 2011. The remaining majority of acreage (450) has not been treated in 15 or more years. The upper reaches of stands 19 and 21 holds stems well in excess of 22 in diameter, trees which are 140+ years in age.