Merck Forest celebrates 75 years of conservation and education in Vermont

In a vibrant gathering at the Vermont House Commerce meeting, Renata Aylward, communications manager for Merck Forest and Farmland Center, painted a vivid picture of the center's impact on both the local community and the environment. Celebrating its 75th anniversary, Merck Forest has transformed from a generous gift of 2,600 acres from George Merck into a sprawling 3,500-acre sanctuary, open to the public year-round without any fees.

Aylward emphasized the center's role as an "open-air classroom," where visitors can engage with the stunning landscapes of the Northern Appalachian Acadian ecoregion, the largest intact temperate forest remaining on Earth. This unique environment not only serves as a scenic retreat but also as a critical corridor for migratory species, linking habitats from the Gulf of Mexico to Canada. As climate change drives species northward, Merck Forest stands as a vital protector of biodiversity and a supporter of rural economies.

Each year, over 20,000 visitors flock to the small town of Roper, Vermont, to experience the center's educational programs, which cater to all ages—from preschoolers to adults. Aylward shared inspiring stories of transformation, including that of a recent University of Vermont graduate who shifted his career path from pharmacy to natural resource management after working at the center. Another story highlighted a high school student who discovered his passion for welding through an internship with Merck's land management team.

Beyond individual growth, Merck Forest collaborates with colleges and conservation nonprofits to educate landowners on protecting Vermont's natural resources amid climate challenges. Aylward's passionate presentation underscored the center's multifaceted contributions to education, tourism, agriculture, and conservation, leaving attendees with a sense of hope and a call to action for preserving Vermont's cherished landscapes.