MATTAPOISETT — In 2018 and 2019, the Mattapoisett Land Trust hired foresters Phil Benjamin and Tom Farrell to create Forest Management Plans for 360 acres of woods in the Old Aucoot and Brandt Island Cove Districts.

The foresters recommend selective thinning and limited tree harvest in certain forest areas to improve habitat for wildlife, particularly birds, to create more varied sizes and ages of trees, areas of additional sunlight, and to control invasive species.

In early February, habitat improvement woodcutting will begin on 90 acres of forest south of Route 6 near the Friends Meeting House and the Brownell blueberry patch. The property will remain open to the public, but hikers should stay well clear of woodcutting operations.

Contact the land trust at info@mattlandtrust.org or 774-377-9191 with any questions or for more information.