Professional forester and draft animal logging expert Tom Jenkins demonstrated the use of oxen and horses in skidding logs from forest land within the Allenwood Conservation Area, a Sterling Land Trust property. He was ably assisted by another professional, Bradley Teeter from the Farm School in Athol who works with draft animals on farms and in forests. The afternoon program included a view of the working century old sawmill belonging to Eric Starbard at Crystal Brook Farm. The land trust woodlot and Crystal Brook Farm are both off of Tuttle Road. Mr. Starbard milled some of the logs from this forestry operation, giving visitors a look at what is involved in turning a tree into lumber. This event highlighted proper forest management techniques, while offering a glimpse at the power of draft animal work once known to farmers in New England before the advent of gas powered tractors. 

Tom talking about the two oxen Rock and Star to the crowd and kids.

Link to a Video production from Matt Cranson.