Native Tree Society BBS

Greetings all,

It's a pleasure to finally introduce myself amongst this board of brilliant minds and dedicated souls whose passion, hard work and expertise have guided me through the New England landscape over the last decade to a better understanding of not only my surrounding environment, but my place in it by the paths blazed before me. So many thanks are owed to so many of you and I look forward to contributing where I can to the best of my abilities.

Based out of the Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts, I follow the regional champion trees and frequent the Berkshire old growth most often, not withholding surrounding states, but with main exposure in southern New England. My intention is always to come away with a greater ecological perspective of any particular location to better appreciate the systemic spectrum which paints the beauty of the bigger picture.

I look forward to sharing many ideas and experiences with the board and I thank you all so very much for the work you do. It's truly an honor to be afforded the opportunity to learn from you.

Brendon

Brendon,

Welcome aboard. Can you tell us a little about your background? What aspects of forests and trees are you primarily interested in?

Bob

Bob,

Thank you very much. I have no professional or formal training when it comes to the forest. I grew up around the Mount Tom range and started identifying and seeking big trees around the state about 10 years ago. I picked up your Ancient Forests of the Northeast around that time and became very interested in the structure of old growth forests. I love trying to find the oldest apparent trees of any species at any given location. Most recently I've discovered the works of Anthony D'Amato, Tom Wessels and the like, who've pushed my appreciation for the entire ecological aspects to first and second growth forests. I just have a great love for the New England region and am trying to piece together the puzzles that have made it such a wonderful place to grow.

Brendon