Kenna, who has attended two Women and Their Woods educational retreats, explains, “I think the whole family has to be involved in caring for the land—and women are at the heart of the family."

Over the last two decades, New England has experienced significant changes in its weather, and these changes are expected to continue over the next century and beyond . The region is predicted to become warmer and wetter on average, storms more frequent and intense, and with more frequent periods of extreme heat and drought.

In many of my talks with landowners, the topic of certification comes up. It usually comes up because I bring it up and the landowner responds that they don’t know if they are certified, has never heard of certification or is confused by what being certified actually means to them.

The national and international wood products industry is demanding wood that is certified sustainable to meet the requests of consumers. Certification by an independent third party helps ensure the land is well managed.

Debbie Clay shares her experience of managing her newly acquired woodlands.

Thirty miles down Highway 40, in southern Virginia, the land rolls gently with endless rows of emerald green crops. Billboards proclaim:
“Peanuts – whole sale and retail! Tourists welcome!”
“We’re not nuts, but we sell ‘em”

My favorite way of enjoying nature is with my son and his Boy Scout troop. Scouting is an active program that helps boys grow into men and teaches them outdoor skills.