The White Mountain National Forest and the Green Mountain and Finger Lakes National Forests are the centerpieces of New England’s public lands. More than 70 million people live within a day’s drive of the 800,000 acre White Mountain National Forest. More than 1 million people visit the White Mountains each year which contain the highest peaks in the northeastern United States. The Green Mountain National Forest, located in southwestern and central Vermont represents another recreational hub in New England, especially when Autumn’s kaleidoscope of colors are on display.

National Forest Foundation has partnered with several groups such as the White Mountain Trail Collective, Appalachian Mountain Club, REI, and others to advance conservation efforts in the region. Restoring one of the oldest and most popular paths in the White Mountains, Crawford Path, is just one of many examples of a recent project to protect and steward recreational trails in the region. NFF has also helped restore well known camping sites such as Dolly Copp and enhanced treasured landscapes like Glen Ellis Falls, a 64-foot waterfall located in Pinkham Notch. This year, NFF is on track to complete a recreational project at Rumney Rocks, an internationally recognized rock climbing site, and aims to emphasize habitat restoration and forest health projects as well as advance diversity and inclusion efforts in the region.

This winter, National Forest Foundation welcomed Sarah Stanley to the team as the New England Program Manager. She will work closely with NFF’s Eastern Program Director, the USDA Forest Service staff, and partners to implement conservation programs throughout New England. Sarah is currently based in North Conway, NH but is a proud 11th generation Mainer. Prior to working with NFF, Sarah served for 3 years as the Executive Director of the Kennebunk Land Trust (KLT), located in southern Maine. Sarah is a registered Maine guide and licensed private pilot. A true outdoor enthusiast, Sarah has even crafted her own ice fishing traps. She enjoys hiking and nature walks and values easy to moderate trails and accessible recreational opportunities for all adventurers. Sarah is currently pursuing a goal of visiting all New England’s major waterfalls. She volunteers on the Maine Audubon Board of Trustees and when not at work, she likes a quiet day at Mousam Lake with a good book. Sarah is excited to work with NFF to expand conservation and engagement efforts in the region she calls home.

Cover photo by the U.S. Forest Service.