A Living Lab for Forest Restoration and Conservation   

Research Woods is a 50-acre patch of woods within Duke Farms that’s surrounded by a deer fence and comprises some of our best preserved woodlots on campus.  This location was the first sight for many of our restoration activities here at Duke Farms. This section of our campus contains old non-agriculturally modified forests, over twenty years of ecological research work and an evolving horticultural culture that began with exotic invasive plant species but is now rearing some of the most valuable native plant species seen at Duke Farms.

By visiting Research Woods, guests can witness firsthand the positive impacts of restoration efforts and gain a deeper understanding of forest ecology and management. 

Ecological Significance

Research Woods is considered the healthiest woodland within Duke Farms, attributed to additional deer fencing and a long history of restoration efforts. ​  

History

JB Duke used cleared sections of the 50 acres to propagate ornamental plants for sale to clients in the growing New York City metro area, growing trees and shrubs such as Norway Maple, Norway Spruce, Crabapples and other species and shipped them off via his own private railway spur that entered his estate. The eastern section of the woodlot remained uncleared since at least the 1930’s, with numerous native species reaming here to this day such as Canada Lily, Trout Lily, Cutleaf Toothwort, Maple Leaf & Arrowood Viburnum. These species were nearly extirpated from the rest of the property from a combination of land use (lawns, farming, horticultural use), invasive plant species growth and excessive deer populations that began in the middle of the 20^th century on.  

In 2005, facing up to the challenges of deer densities surpassing 200 deer/sq miles, this patch of woods was enclosed with a deer fence. At the same time, a network of trails were established on existing and new roadways in the woodlot and nursery areas to facilitate limited visitation by the public. Upon opening to the wider public in 2012 this same area is now accessible to all.  

Trails

Visitors can explore Research Woods via various trails, including the Duke Farms Outer Loop and the Off the Paved Path Loop, both offering unique perspectives of the woodland and its diverse habitats. ​  

Programs

Duke Farms offers educational programs, such as habitat hikes and birding series, that utilize Research Woods to teach participants about forest ecosystems, native and invasive species, and conservation efforts. ​  

iNaturalist is a digital field guide to help you identify the flora and fauna you encounter along the trails

iNaturalist

The Merlin Bird ID app is a digital field guide that will help you identify the birds you encounter along the trails

Merlin BirdID