It is not often that you come across a land site that has been untouched for generations. The Crandall Reserve is a combination of conventional farm fields, wetlands, woodlands. The forest floor is filled with ramps, hog peanut, multiple species of ferns, medicinal plants, herbs, and nuts. Bogs of blueberries, cranberries, and tamarack filter the run-off from the fields. The closed canopy holds in the coolness of summer nights and moisture for the delicate native foliage. Multiple plant communities bring a bounty of foraging possibilities. Foraging, however, needs to be well managed and infrequently disturbed.

The nutrient-dense woodland herbs are under great stress to persist. Growth is slow and competition for nutrients is high in this frequently harsh environment. This is why the nutrients are so dense in wild plants. A nursery will start new transplants of threatened species and to augment existing plant communities. Tall fencing will exclude deer and other herbivores from woodland forage plots. Small microclimates suited to specific cultivated crops are intensely planted to leave the remaining area in its native state. Roadbeds are improved to handle increased traffic, visitors, and needed small farm vehicles and equipment. Visitors are restricted to the paths and roads to protect the soil from compaction and seedlings from foot traffic.  The resident stewards map and know the seasonal harvests and best times for picking. Soon engrained into life is seasonal eating and processing to extend the harvest to many months beyond.