Beyond the Summit: The Ecology of the 4,000-Foot Mountains: A Book Talk at Cook Memorial Library on November 7
The Wonalancet Out Door Club and the Cook Memorial Library invite the public to a free presentation by Michael Whittemore, author of “Ecology of New Hampshire’s 4,000-Foot Mountains: A Natural History Trail Guide to the White Mountains,” on Saturday, November 7 at 5:00 p.m. at the library.
At the presentation, Whittemore will share highlights from his new book and explore the natural history hidden along some of the White Mountains’ most familiar trails. Using the 48 peaks as a framework, he will explore how geology, elevation, climate, forests, alpine communities, wildlife, and disturbance shape these mountains, while highlighting long-term research that has transformed our understanding of the Whites. Whittemore will also share stories from the scientists, naturalists, and conservationists behind that work and discuss how hikers can learn to read the landscape differently—looking beyond the summit to better understand the mountains beneath their feet.
Michael Whittemore is an ecologist, botanist, conservation professional, author, and lifelong hiker whose relationship with the White Mountains began on the trail. He has completed New Hampshire’s forty-eight 4,000-footers and the Northeast 111, experiences that helped shape his interest in understanding the ecology behind the mountains hikers know so well. Michael holds a master’s degree in Environmental Studies from Ohio University and has spent more than a decade working in ecological research, restoration, conservation, and land stewardship across the Northeast. Today, he works with the Ammonoosuc Conservation Trust in New Hampshire and is the founder of Rewild Ecological, where his work includes botanical inventories, ecological assessments, rare-species surveys, restoration, and conservation planning. Whittemore is currently engaged in an inventory of the vascular plants of the Bowl Natural Research Area, working with the Wonalancet Out Door Club (WODC) and citizen naturalists.
The WODC has been caring for the Sandwich Range since 1898, maintaining more than 50 miles of hiking trails, advocating for conservation and research, publishing a map and guide and print and e-newsletters, and offering recreational and educational programs for all ages. Learn more about WODC at wodc.org.
This presentation is free and open to the public. The Cook Memorial Library is located at 93 Main Street in Tamworth Village. For more information, call the library at 603-323-8510 or visit tamworthlibrary.org.