Overview: This immersive, residential field course offers a deep dive into the identification of, ecology, conservation, and management of ancient and venerable trees, with a particular focus on regional perspectives. Participants will explore these majestic trees not only from a local viewpoint but will also engage with broader, global examples. Held at the Oak Spring Garden Foundation in Upperville, Virginia, this course provides hands-on experience to study these natural giants in their historical and ecological context, expertly guided by landscape historian and ecologist Michael Gaige.
By the end of this four (4) day course, participants will have acquired essential knowledge and practical skills to:
● Identify Ancient Trees: Learn the field marks and characteristics that distinguish old trees, including their unique bark, leaves, and overall form.
● Understand Ecological and Cultural Significance: Gain insight into the role of old trees as vital components of biodiversity, providing habitat for numerous organisms such as fungi, invertebrates, and vertebrates.
● Refine Conservation and Management Practices: Develop a foundational understanding of the conservation challenges associated with ancient trees and learn strategies to enhance their longevity.
● Examine Global Contexts: Appreciate how ancient trees fit into global ecological and cultural narratives, and why their preservation is crucial for future generations.
This course provides an in-depth understanding of the complex relationship between trees, their environments, and the human history they witness.
Michael Gaige is an independent consulting ecologist with over 15 years of teaching experience and a passion for the intersection of natural and cultural history. Based in upstate New York, Michael works with organizations, design groups, private landowners, and public agencies on ecological assessments, landscape design, and conservation planning. With a specific focus on large old trees, he leverages field evidence and archival research to reconstruct land-use histories, offering invaluable insights into the relationship between ecological disturbance and the cultural influences of a landscape.
Michael holds an MS from Antioch University and a BA from Prescott College, blending academic expertise with practical field experience. His work in historical ecology and conservation planning is enhanced by his ability to engage and inspire a wide range of learners, making complex topics accessible to diverse audiences.
Eligibility: This course is ideal for a wide range of participants, including:
● Ecologists, Botanists, and Foresters interested in deepening their knowledge of old-growth trees and their ecological significance.
● Land Managers, Landscape Architects, and Tree Professionals looking to expand their expertise in tree conservation and management practices.
● Artists, Educators, and Students with an interest in the cultural and historical importance of ancient trees.
● Tree Enthusiasts who are eager to explore the ecological roles and historical stories behind these magnificent natural landmarks.
While a basic understanding of trees and familiarity with identifying species by leaves and/or bark is helpful, it is not required. Arborists may find the course beneficial for understanding the broader context of old trees, but specific pruning or treatment techniques will not be a focus of this course.
Now into the fourth (4) year of the program, participants continue to comment that “Michael is a truly gifted teacher and is able to seemingly teach across a range of abilities, backgrounds, and skill sets, which is a rare gift.” Many also emphasize that “he manage[s] to push us to really understand what we were looking at,” underscoring his ability to engage and challenge participants of all experience levels.
The course is limited to 12 participants to ensure an intimate, hands-on experience with ample opportunity for personalized instruction.
About OSGF: The Oak Spring Garden Foundation (OSGF) is an operating foundation based on the former estate of Paul and Rachel ‘Bunny’ Mellon, two of the major U.S. philanthropists of the second half of the twentieth century. OSGF is located in the northern Virginia Piedmont and Blue Ridge Mountains region (ca. one-hour drive from Washington, D.C.). Led by Sir Peter Crane, the Foundation’s inaugural President, OSGF supports fellowships and residencies for artists and scholars, offers short courses, and engages its multiple audiences, including its local community in practical horticulture, as well as land stewardship for the conservation and restoration of biodiversity. OSGF is rapidly becoming a new center of excellence and stimulation for all things botanical, from fundamental research in plant evolution, to horticulture and plant conservation, as well as the history and contemporary practice of plant, garden and landscape art.
Accommodation and Travel Information: Participants will be accommodated with all meals and private lodging on site at Oak Spring.
Participants are responsible for arranging their own travel to the Washington, D.C. area. If flying, please book flights to Dulles International Airport. International applicants are welcome, but fluency in English is necessary. Closer to the start date, our Programs team will assist with coordinating travel arrangements to the Oak Spring Garden Foundation site, as necessary.
Dates and Duration: The course runs for three and half (3.5) days with participants arriving on Monday, October 6, 2025 and leaving on Friday, October 10, 2025. Participants should plan to arrive between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm on Monday, October 6, 2025 and depart at 12:00pm on Friday, October 10, 2025.
Course Fee: $1000 is all-inclusive and covers full tuition, lodging on-site for four nights in our comfortable suites, and all meals on-site (from dinner on Monday through breakfast on Friday). A limited number of full or partial Fee Waivers are available for this course.
Selection Process: Applications will be reviewed by Michael Gaige and OSGF staff.
The Oak Spring Garden Foundation is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. Decisions are made on the basis of qualifications, merit and business need without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, or any other non-merit factor.