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News and Updates from Sanborn Mills Farm
Logging on The Farm
Sanborn Mills Farm and Merrill Farm encompass over 400 acres of managed woodlands, providing timber for the farm’s sawmill for more than 250 years. Forestry management is an important aspect of the daily operations on the farm guided by a dedicated team of experts committed to sustainable practices. Forester Jeffery Coombs, of Ossipee Mountain Land Company developed the farm’s forestry plan, which is reviewed and updated every ten years to ensure the long-term health of our woodlands. Rich from Ossipee Mountain Land Company marks the trees for harvesting in accordance with the forestry plan.
Once trees are marked members of the farm team use traditional logging techniques to maintain our managed forests, relying on both oxen and horses, each with a distinct role in maximizing efficiency while preserving the land.
Oxen, known for their dexterity and sure-footedness, are essential for navigating tight areas in the woods. Their steady, deliberate movements make them ideal for maneuvering logs through uneven terrain. Horses, on the other hand, are quicker-paced and best suited for longer hauls on smooth trails and roads. This complementary system ensures that each animal works in an environment best suited to its strengths.
Once trees are felled, oxen haul the logs to the landing brow, where they are rolled onto a log scoot using peaveys. From there, they are transported to the loop road near the sawmill, awaiting the spring thaw. At that time, pine logs are placed in the pond to prevent blue staining, as the water naturally preserves the pine.
When the forestry plan calls for it Jake Bronnenberg, our logger, steps in with his modern logging equipment to harvest timber. This kind of larger forest maintenance is necessary as the farm’s demand alone isn’t enough to support new growth and a healthy forest.
At Sanborn Mills Farm, we prioritize responsible timber stand improvement. Hardwoods are most often used for firewood, while pine is milled into lumber for various ongoing farm projects. By integrating traditional animal-powered logging with sustainable forestry practices, we honor the past while ensuring a healthy forest for the future.
Our approach balances conservation with responsible timber use, ensuring that our forests continue to provide resources for generations to come. In recent years, we’ve also had to harvest all of the ash on the property for use in furniture and tool-making before the emerald ash borer could destroy the trees.
Click below for a short video of logging in January.
Winter Magic On the Farm
Photos and Text By Craig Mabie (Studio Manager)
Eco Printing and Hand-Woven Tapestry!
The sweep of the farm during
winter’s still.
Quiet, with deep chill.
Sanborn Brook free to flow.
The stately grange framed in snow.
Discover the art of eco printing and natural dyeing in this hands-on, 2-day workshop, where you’ll use locally foraged plants and food waste to create vibrant prints on fabric and paper. Engage in outdoor foraging, printmaking, and book arts while exploring the seasonal magic of springtime in New England.
Explore the timeless art of tapestry weaving and create your own woven masterpiece using a simple tapestry loom. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced weaver, this hands-on workshop will teach you essential techniques, from warping your loom to designing and weaving intricate patterns.
Sanborn Mills Farm | www.sanbornmills.org
Sanborn Mills Farm | 7097 Sanborn Road | Loudon, NH 03307 US