Merck Forest and Farmland Center is working with the Vermont Land Trust to conserve more than 2,600 acres in Rupert.
In all, 3,000 acres of Merck Forest will be protected under a conservation easement through the agreement. Of that, about 200 acres of quality farm soils will be preserved.
Merck Forest is a nonprofit educational organization that educates local students in the study of natural sciences and promotes sustainable agriculture and forest management.
The conservation project preserves a large, “unbroken” forest block that creates an oasis for larger wild animals that need more expansive areas to roam.
Tom Ward, executive director of Merck, said the donation of development rights to the Vermont Land Trust is the culmination of a two-year conversation about the project.
Merck Forest is a popular recreational destination for local residents and tourists. The farm produces pork and lamb and offers an apprenticeship program for aspiring farmers.
