Our Woods in a Warming World: The Future Outlook

Nearly 80% of New England is covered by forests, and they play an important role in our daily lives. From clean drinking water and clean air, to wildlife habitat, recreation, and economic benefits, forests are critical to our well-being and quality of life. But, with the changing climate, will tomorrow’s forests look the same as they do today? Will maple syrup become a thing of the past? Will spruce and fir disappear from our mountains? Jennifer Hushaw Shakun, Manomet’s Applied Forest Scientist, will answer these questions and more at a special evening presentation. Join us to learn how our climate is changing, what it means for our forests, and how healthy forests are one of our best tools for combating the challenge of climate change.

As an urban forest, the Cemetery’s mature canopy plays an important role in mitigating the effects of climate change. The Cemetery has an active tree planting program to sustain its canopy coverage that assesses the survivability of newly planted trees in a changing climate and long term outcomes of planting decisions made now.

Co-hosted with Manomet

Register here
March 12th, 6:00 – 7:30 pm
Newton Cemetery Chapel

Spring Tree Tour

Arbor Day is April 26th this year. Come celebrate at Newton Cemetery with a tree tour showcasing the specimens that enhance the grounds. Cemetery arborist Robert Reardon will highlight some interesting and unique characteristics of the numerous varieties. The tour will last approximately 90 minutes and take place rain or shine. Comfortable walking shoes, water and plenty of questions are recommended. Meet outside the main office just inside the front gate at 791 Walnut Street. Parking is available along the cemetery roads or the chapel parking lot. For more information, call 617-332-0047.

The tour is free and open to all. Suggested Donation: $10.00 (donations to the Friends of Newton Cemetery are welcome and support arboretum education and care).

April 27th, 1:00 pm
Newton Cemetery

Landscape Pests and Problems Walkabout – Diseases and Weeds

Get some hands-on experience scouting and identifying landscape diseases and weed problems. Join Randy Prostak, UMASS Extension Weed Specialist and Nick Brazee, UMASS Extension Plant Pathologist, for a walk through the landscape as they discuss and demonstrate how to put IPM practices to work efficiently and examine some of the most common pest and cultural problems of woody ornamentals. Dress for walking; workshop held rain or shine. Bring a clipboard, pencil and hand lens if possible.

Pesticide & Professional Credits: 2 pesticide contact hours for categories 36 and Applicators License available. Association credits: 1/2 MCLP and 1 MCH credits. ISA credits requested. (This event is directed at industry professionals.)

Registration: Preregistration required as space is limited; the cost is $50.00 (group discount available). Download printable registration form here.

May 10th, 4:00 – 6:00 pm
Newton Cemetery

Spring Bird Walk

Test your skills and pick up some new ones this spring with guides from Manomet’s Landbird Conservation program as they lead this year’s Newton Cemetery Bird Walk once again. Birders of all experience levels are welcome on this two hour walk around the cemetery’s arboretum in search of migrant warblers, vireos, thrushes, and more! Scheduled for the peak of spring migration, there will be ample opportunity to brush up on your birding-by-ear techniques, as well as catch a glimpse of breeding males in their most dapper plumage. Changes in climate will be discussed and how Manomet’s long-term research projects bring its effects on migration to light. Participation is limited, and last years’ program reached capacity so be sure to register early!

Come equipped with comfortable shoes, binoculars (we will provide a few pairs to share), and water. The walk will meet just inside the main gate in front of the office. Parking is available along the cemetery road or chapel parking lot.

$15.00 Non-Members, $10.00 Members.
For additional information, please contact Chris Boudreaux at 508-224-6521, ext. 226 or cboudreaux@manomet.org or visit Manomet.org
Co-hosted with Manomet

May 15th, 7:00 am
Newton Cemetery

Spring Plant Sale

Celebrate National Public Gardens week – May 13-19th this year – at the Friends of Newton Cemetery Spring Plant Sale to shop for annuals, perennials and houseplants that have been grown in the greenhouse on the grounds. There will also be pollinator plant seeds available to purchase. Proceeds from the sale support the Pollinator Garden.

May 18th, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Newton Cemetery, Main Fountain Area