Founding Guild Member Hosts 30th Anniversary Celebration in Maine

Written by Logan Johnson and Barrie Brusila  

The Guild’s community of dedicated forest stewards sets it apart from others. In June, Founding Member, Barrie Brusila, hosted a Guild Gathering at her family’s woodlot in Warren, Maine, to celebrate 30 years of the Forest Stewards Guild. From semi-retired foresters to young professionals, the group met at her family’s home for the well-known pastime of the Guild Introduction Circle, for everyone to get a chance to learn about each other, before embarking on a walk in the woods together. 

The woodlot tour traversed a maintained field, mature stands, and recently harvested areas, with discussions centered on forest health, harvest design, skid trail layout, silviculture, wood markets/economics, and land use history. One of the interesting takeaways was how Barrie, as a forester, works with her family of non-foresters to make management decisions about the woodlot. She upholds her ethics to ensure she meets her entire family’s objectives.   

Presenters at this event included Laura Kenefic (Supervisory Research Forester, Team Leader, US Forest Service), Nicole Rogers (Landowner Outreach Forester, Maine Forest Service), Gabe LeMay (Entomologist, Maine Forest Service), and Joe Wiley (Wildlife Biologist, retired).   

After the tour, the group reassembled at the house for a delightful dinner and camaraderie, including the other Guild Gathering pastime, a game of catch. Members like Barrie, with their passion, knowledge, and dedication, are the heart and soul of the Guild. They create a welcoming environment for all to learn, appreciate the woods, and be part of a community that has put the forest first since 1995.

Barrie said,   “It was an honor for me to host such a knowledgeable and enjoyable group of people. I’m grateful for being able to steward such a lovely family property. It’s my happy place.”   

A very special thank you to Guild member event hosts, like Barrie. Thank you to all who attend Guild Gatherings and share your questions and expertise. It is with your support that the Guild fulfills our mission to forge a healthy future for people and forests!