The University of New Hampshire Extension announced on May 21 that applications are now open for its 2026 Natural Resources Stewards course, which will take place in Keene from September 11 through November 20.
The program offers residents an opportunity to learn about the natural environment of New Hampshire and participate in hands-on projects focused on tree health, invasive species, soils, water quality, pollinator habitats, wildlife, and ecologically friendly landscapes. This is the first time the course will be held in the Keene area.
According to organizers, participants will gain practical skills through a combination of online learning and field experiences at local parks and reserves. The region provides a unique setting due to ongoing efforts addressing red pine decline following historical replanting after a major hurricane in 1938. Community members are working on removing affected trees and developing more diverse urban forests.
The teaching team includes specialists from UNH Extension and the New Hampshire Department of Forests and Lands as well as guest speakers. Ethan Tapper, author of ‘How to Love a Forest’ and ‘The Forest Year: Finding Hope in a World Worth Saving,’ will lead an educational walk-and-talk event during the class session along with a public lecture at the Keene Library.
At orientation, participants receive detailed information about class locations throughout Keene. Once accepted into the program—which costs $445—participants can register online; limited scholarships are available for those facing financial challenges. After completing the course requirements over eleven weeks, stewards are expected to volunteer at least forty hours within their first year.
University of New Hampshire Extension serves as the outreach arm of the University of New Hampshire by partnering with county, state and federal entities for programming; it utilizes county offices along with specialized facilities like geospatial training centers and soil labs; engages roughly 6,000 volunteers annually across fourteen programs; promotes social well-being by supporting healthy communities; aims to enhance communities through reliable expertise; hands-on learning; collaborative strategies—according to the official website.
Those requiring accommodations or language access services should contact jo Russavage prior to attending any events related to this program.
