Encompassing 476 acres of woodland in Jericho, Vermont, this is the University of Vermont’s largest and most widely used forest. The University acquired the Jericho property in 1941 from the city of Burlington. As part of the agreement, Burlington paid for the purchase and planting of over 70,000 conifer trees.

Today, the Jericho Research Forest includes a mix of natural stands of northern hardwoods and white pine and plantations of native and exotic conifers. This ecologically diverse tract is readily accessible from campus by a fairly well-maintained dirt road, which extends into the forest allowing for motorized vehicle use when necessary. The forest is used for courses in forestry and natural resources. Current faculty research at the forest includes studies of alternative forest management on long-term demonstration plots by Dr. Bill Keeton and research on the adaptation of tree species to climate change led by Dr. Tony D’Amato.

The forest at Jericho provides an excellent opportunity to explore forest conservation through land use history. Although once a very productive farm, the land was nearly completely exhausted by 1939. A conservation plan written in 1937 provides a valuable historic reference and details the extent of soil erosion, forest stocking, and the condition of agricultural fields. Through tree plantings and natural regeneration and succession, a healthy, productive forest now grows on the site today.

From Burlington, take Interstate 89 south to exit 11 (Richmond), turn left off the exit ramp going under the interstate, and turn right onto Route 117. Travel for about 3 miles down Route 117 and take a right onto Barber Farm Road. About .5 mile down Barber Farm Road, take a right onto Tarbox Road. Tarbox is a dirt road and may be in poor condition during the rainy/mud season. About .5 mile down Tarbox, the road forks; bear to the right, and this road will lead you to the UVM house on the Jericho Forest property.