Local students explore spring ephemerals at Smokey House Center

Press Manchester Journal

Published May 14, 2025

Students from Bennington College help weed forest botanical raised bed plots at Smokey House Center

DANBY — Providing local students the opportunity to engage directly with nature and research, Smokey House Center welcomed students from fourteen local schools this spring, including Bennington College, The Dorset School, Burr & Burton Academy, Maple Street School, MEMS, Sunderland Elementary, Long Trail School, and more. The students participated in forest farming research that focused on the fascinating world of spring ephemerals. This focus furthered their research completed last spring with ramp (wild onions) research on Smokey House Center’s 5,000 acre campus.

Throughout their visits, students explored the early season plants that make up the spring ephemeral ecosystem, including blue cohosh, ramps, trillium and wild ginger. They contributed to ongoing research by collecting botanical data, assisting in monitoring key plant populations across the forest, and flagging out areas for seed collection efforts. Students gained valuable knowledge of the life cycle of these plants, how they are pollinated and dispersed across the landscape, and the crucial role they play in the health of local ecosystems.

“Watching students try ramps for the first time as part of their experience was a highlight. These hands-on moments help students develop a memorable connection to the land, something we hope to instill in the next generation.” said Lauren Kelly, Education Coordinator at Smokey House Center.

The program gave young people an opportunity to connect with nature and take an active role in environmental stewardship. Smokey House Center’s Living Lab initiative allows students to work alongside experts in forestry, farming, and research, emphasizing the importance of climate adaptation and sustainable land management practices.

“These spring ephemeral field trips provide more than just an educational experience—they give students the chance to connect deeply with this place. The hands-on research they participate in is empowering, and we are thrilled to be a part of their journey in becoming the future stewards of Vermont’s forests.” said Walker Cammack, Program Director at Smokey House Center.

In addition to learning about plants, students were introduced to the concept of biodiversity conservation and how human actions can support the natural environment. In the case of forest farming and these unique spring ephemerals, students explored how humans can act as “seed dispersers” to help these ecologically significant plant species endure on our landscapes in the face of climate change and other threats. This program is one example of Smokey House Center’s ongoing efforts to engage youth in meaningful, hands-on environmental education. Over 500 youth participate in the center’s programs each year, and the spring ephemerals field trips are an exciting part of this initiative.

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