Sacopee Valley Adult & Community Education

The wooded landscape of Maine today is vastly different than it was 100 years ago. Learn to “read” the forest’s history through natural clues. Topics covered include: why different tree species dominate different wooded parcels, how to identify and date logging stumps and roads, the role of the “nurse tree”, why stone walls are found in the middle of wooded areas, what created those “potholes'' peppering certain areas of the woods, and so much more! Learn to differentiate a man-made rock dump from a boulder train left by retreating glaciers. Discover the health of a forest and its vast communication network between trees by observing physical clues all around you. Did you know that forests release a powerful biochemical compound scientifically proven to fight cancer cells and strengthen the immune systems of both people and animals? Learn all about the symbiotic relationship between us and our wooded and forested lands. Walk away with a better understanding of the anatomy of our forests and why we need to conserve them. Please note: Deb graciously volunteers her time and property. Donations in support of maintenance and set up are appreciated and can be made at the time of the course. The class will be held outdoors or, in case of intermittent weather, a small outdoor structure. Rain dates will be scheduled if needed. Bring a lawn chair and bug spray and dress for the outdoors. Please pre-register as we need a minimum of 4 people to run the course.  

In 2005, Deb became a registered Maine Guide, guiding people in Maine’s great outdoors. A former reserve police officer, EMT, firefighter, and crisis counselor, she was also part of the search and rescue team with the USAF and a member of its critical incident stress management team. She has spent her entire life as an amateur archeologist, historian, and naturalist. In 2014, she retired from farming in Aroostook County and moved to her 50-acre wooded lot, living off the grid and close to nature.