For decades park visitors enjoyed the cool and shady depths of the Point Pleasant Park forest.  Older trees and thick growth gave a feeling of permanence and density that contrasted the ever changing and temperamental sea surrounding the Park on three sides.

 

In 2003, Hurricane Juan swept away most of our beloved forest, leaving what seemed like a wrecked and desolate landscape.

That feeling of desolation remained
for a few years, but the forest has now awakened-- dormant seeds have sprouted, wildflowers are abundant, young tree stumps are bursting with new growth, tree seedlings are sprouting. This is the young Acadian forest working to regenerate itself.

As a coastal urban forest and a popular municipal park, Point Pleasant Park faces several challenges requiring careful management and stewardship practices. In July 2007 we will begin to highlight various aspects of the forest to show you how we care for it.

The Point Pleasant Park forest is a special place where science, art, and nature come together to create a landscape of beauty that stirs the soul. 

 

We hope that you enjoy learning more about the park and the forest.