The Jericho research forest is an interesting site for diversity. This location has grown up from farmland and has been managed by the Rubenstein school. It shows how Vermont’s natural history lead to todays ecology. This area contributes to vermont’s biodiversity through years of natural succession of natural species. there is no development within the 500 acre plot so its undisturbed land. Jericho provides students with a valuable educational resources. Studying forestry students use this resource to “practice using essential field tools and skills, and understand the theoretical and mathematical underpinnings. It also features an evolving set a of maps, spatial data, inventory data, photographs, and historical information related to key field sites used by the UVM Forestry Program for education and research.” http://www.uvm.edu/rsenr/forestry/.
This ecosystem is threatened by common forest ecosystem issues seen throughout vermont. Invasive species outcompeting native species contributes to decreased species diversity. Service learning projects and local volunteer work can help with invasive eradication through labor. This could provide for a field trip opportunity. Bringing a class to adventure in the woods while extracting invasive species could be a fun opportunity to get students to connect with local ecology while providing a service for the ecosystem.