Duke Forest

Summer is a wonderful time to explore the outdoors, but high temperatures can quickly turn a pleasant outing into a health risk. Before heading out to the Duke Forest or other outdoor spaces, take a few minutes to review heat safety resources developed and compiled by the Nicholas Institute for Energy, Environment, and Sustainability’s Heat Policy Innovation Hub.

Learn how to stay cool without air conditioning, recognize the warning signs of heat-related illness, understand heat forecasts and temperature measurements, and make informed decisions to stay safe all summer long: https://nicholasinstitute.duke.edu/project/heat-policy-innovation-hub/heat-safety

With around 46,000 dog visits each year, responsible recreation is essential to protecting the Duke Forest’s role as a teaching and research laboratory. All dogs must remain leashed and stay on established roads and trails. Even a single paw stepping off-trail can damage sensitive native wildflowers, disturb wildlife habitat, or impact ongoing research. Keeping all dogs on leash is not only a Forest rule – it is a county ordinance in both Durham and Orange Counties.

Leashing your dog also helps ensure a safe and welcoming experience for all visitors. By following Forest rules and encouraging others to do the same, you help protect this special place.

Volunteer Highlight: Bob Waggoner and Rise Rusher

When Bob Waggoner and Rise Rusher moved to Durham from Indiana in 2023, they were eager to explore the area's hiking and biking opportunities. After attending one of the first post-COVID Duke Forest management tours, they quickly found themselves becoming part of the Duke Forest community.

Since then, Bob and Rise have participated in the Forest Steward and Community Scientist Herpetofauna programs, attended research tours and annual gatherings, and volunteered their time to support stewardship projects across the Forest. Bob has also joined the ad hoc Steward Field Crew, helping staff with maintenance projects and even participating in a deer survey. Through it all, they have embraced opportunities to learn, serve, and connect with fellow volunteers and staff.

Reflecting on their experience, Bob shared, "The Duke Forest team is full of wonderful folks who are a joy to be around. We are very grateful to be allowed to join with them as we've learned so much and met so many great people."

Join us in thanking Bob and Rise for their enthusiasm, dedication, and support of the Duke Forest mission.