The Haystead Forest is more than surrounding land — it is an active part of our living ecosystem and conservation mission. Spanning roughly 30 acres of mixed Virginia woodland, the forest serves as both a wildlife sanctuary and a place of ongoing ecological stewardship.
Our goal is simple: work with nature, not against it. By allowing native habitats to thrive, supporting pollinators, installing bat boxes, and carefully managing the land with science-based practices, the forest has become a core foundation of the Haystead Project.
In 2024, we broke ground carving out approximately two miles of hiking trails throughout the Haystead Forest. These trails allow us to monitor wildlife habitats, access research areas, and enjoy the land while minimizing impact on sensitive ecosystems. They also help connect the many branches of our work — from conservation efforts to habitat restoration and environmental research.
The forest continues to evolve as a place where ecology, education, and stewardship meet — supporting wildlife, strengthening biodiversity, and grounding the Haystead mission in the natural world around us.
