What Happens On A Tree Farm?

NWPWA Sponsors a Visit to an Award-Winning Tree Farm in Corry PA

Edinboro, PA: The Northwest Pennsylvania Woodland Association (NWPWA) will sponsor a tour and educational program at the Kirik Family Tree Farm in Corry on Saturday, August 29, 2026. Join us for a special tour of the Kirik Tree Farm, recently recognized as the 2025 North East Regional Tree Farm of the Year, for a morning of learning and fellowship. George and Brenda Kirik and their family will be our hosts. During the tour, participants will explore a variety of forest stewardship and land management topics, including recent brush management challenges, sustainable forestry practices, growing and managing chestnut trees, pear grafting techniques, and other woodland and tree farm improvements.

Bill Benedict, President of the NWPWA, explained that “Many of us have seen the signs on the side of the road and wondered what a tree farm is. This is an excellent opportunity for woodland owners, and anyone interested in sustainable forestry, and lovers of nature to see tree farm practices firsthand and be a part of our special community.” Come join us to appreciate what PA forests and tree farmers do for all of us in NW PA.

The program is scheduled to run from 8:30am until 11:30am on Saturday, August 29 at 12120 Route 6 in Corry, PA 16407. Registration begins at 8:15am. The event is free and open to the public. A brief NWPWA membership meeting will be held at the picnic area at 11:30 am. Following the tour and meeting, everyone is invited to stay for our annual picnic. The main dish and drinks will be provided by the NWPWA. All are encouraged (not required) to bring a dish to share. To RSVP or for more information, email NWPAWoods@gmail.com or phone Bill Benedict at 814-881-4779.

About the ATF System: The American Tree Farm System exists to recognize and support stewards of family forest land. Woodlands owned by individuals, families, and communities are vital to our clean water and air, wildlife habitat, recreational activities, forest products, and strong economies. “Tree farming” refers to the role of conscientious forest managers to ensure the production of timber, create wildlife habitat, protect water quality, and enhance wildlife habitat in perpetuity.

About NWPWA: Founded in 1999, the NWPWA promotes healthy forests. NWPWA provides education on the methods and benefits of sustainable forestry and forest stewardship. We assist woodland owners in achieving their goals by sharing experiences and expertise. NWPWA tours and workshops – about 4 times a year - are where woodland owners and professionals share their experiences with each other. Members include landowners, forest managers, woodland professionals, and anyone interested in the forests of Northwestern PA. Most members and activities are in Erie, Crawford, Forest, Venango, and Warren PA counties.

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