The Mountain Top Historical Society in partnership with the Mountain Top Arboretum presents “A Landscape Shaped by Fire” a two-day event with Catskills forest historian Dr. Michael Kudish. Day One: Sept. 18 at 10 a.m.: Kudish will deliver a lecture titled “Burn Index: A New Way of Looking at the Catskill Land Use History” at the The Mountain Top Arboretum’s Education Center followed by a walk into the Spruce Glen as an example of non-burn forest composition.

Day Two: Sept. 19 at 9 a.m.: Kudish will lead a hike on the escarpment trail near North-South Lake to a Pitch Pine stand as an example of burned forest composition. Meet at Mountain Top Historical Society’s parking area, 5132 Rt.23A in Haines Falls. ~ 1 mile, moderate – some elevation change. Bring water and snacks. Hike limited to 12 guests and registration is necessary. Email mthsdirector@mths.org or call 518-589-6657 to register.