Saint Croix Island to Host Pruning Workshop

On Saturday, April 22, at 10:30 a.m., Saint Croix Island International Historic Site in Calais will host an apple tree pruning workshop in partnership with University of Maine’s Cooperative Extension. The workshop will take place rain or shine. The focus of the workshop is pruning fruit trees.  Meg Scheid, Park Ranger at the site, said about two dozen apple trees need pruning and on-going care. Young trees will be pruned for production, while older trees will be pruned for preservation. 

“Renea Moran, fruit tree specialist from Highmoor Farm at the University of Maine's apple, small fruit, and vegetable research facility in Monmouth, has agreed to help out once again,” Scheid said.

The public is invited to participate in the hands-on workshop, which will take place in the orchard located at the international historic site. Ms. Moran will begin with a short pruning talk, followed by pruning demonstrations, during which participants can observe and ask questions. Once she completes the demonstrations, participants will break into small groups and try out their new pruning skills. Ms. Moran, along with others who have some pruning skills, will coach the groups as they work their way through the orchard.

“Any adult can participate in the hands-on pruning once they’ve completed Ms. Moran’s training. It is a lot of fun for everyone,” Scheid said. A limited number of pole saws, loppers, and hand pruners will be available to share. Safety gear will be provided. Participants are encouraged to bring their own gloves and tools and be prepared to pile their pruned branches.

Registration begins at 10:30 a.m., in the parking area at Saint Croix Island International Historic Site. All participants will be signed up as National Park Service volunteers. The workshop will begin at 11:00 a.m. and is expected to continue through mid-afternoon. Participants should bring drinking water, pack a lunch, and dress in layers.

The international historic site is located on U.S. 1, eight miles south of Calais, Maine. Questions can be directed to Meg Scheid at 454-3871.