Forester Mark Raishart

How long have you been a forester?

I received my Forester’s License in February of 2024. However, I have been working “forestry adjacent” since 2002, with my first job after college at a local sawmill in southern Vermont. After that I worked in outdoor recreation, beekeeping, Christmas tree farming, maple sugaring, timber harvesting, and doing forest improvement projects in Rutland and Addison counties.

What makes your region of Vermont forest unique from other areas of the state?

Addison County has a rich diversity in landscapes, from the rolling hills of the Champlain Valley to the western slopes of the Green Mountains. The Taconics end just to the south, and the Otter Creek is an ecological centerpiece as it winds its way toward Lake Champlain. The Champlain Valley is home to many flora and fauna that are not found in other parts of Vermont – a result of the unique soils, topography and climate that are found here. We have an excellent blend of agricultural and forested lands and an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities.

Where would you recommend visitors go?

There are so many opportunities for outdoor recreation and scenic views in Addison County. Numerous Vermont State Parks line the shore of Lake Champlain and offer great views of the lake with the Adirondacks in the backdrop. Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area is an excellent place to view migrating snow geese later in the fall. The Middlebury Area Land Trust maintains the Trail Around Middlebury, which has several access points surrounding Middlebury. The Green Mountain National Forest and the Green Mountain Club offer plenty of trail access from Starksboro to Goshen, and many of these trails offer amazing vistas. Finally, the Moosalamoo National Recreation Area, right in my backyard, is my favorite spot in Addison County. It has everything: waterfalls, lakes short or long hikes, beautiful views, mountain biking, and Nordic skiing opportunities.