Silas Hale was an early environmental pioneer and arborist whose love for nature and dedication to preserving the forests surrounding Burdale left an indelible mark on the community. Born in 1882, Hale moved to the small town of Burdale in his early twenties, and it was here, in 1907, that he first began his work as an arborist. With his meticulous care for the town’s trees and grounds, Hale quickly gained a reputation for his knowledge of horticulture and land management.

Silas Hale’s influence extended far beyond just the town's grounds. Recognizing the vast potential for the surrounding forests to provide not only beauty but also recreational opportunities, Hale took it upon himself to establish trails, picnic areas, and the first designated camping grounds in the woods to the north of Burdale. His efforts to preserve the wilderness and make it accessible to the public were transformative. Hale’s lobbying eventually led to the formation of Burdale’s parks maintenance department in 1910, and just three years later, Hale’s vision came to fruition when the Town of Burdale officially designated a large portion of the northern forest as Hale Forest Park in 1913, preserving roughly 7 square miles of wilderness for future generations.

In 1910, the town’s parks maintenance department expanded, establishing the Park Ranger division with a team of rangers, ranger stations, and a fire-watch lookout. This initiative was directly inspired by Hale’s ongoing efforts to preserve the natural beauty and manage the parklands. Silas Hale continued to play a key role in shaping Burdale’s commitment to environmental stewardship until his death in 1947. Hale Forest Park remains a testament to his dedication and vision, a sanctuary for wildlife and a place for generations of Burdale residents to connect with the natural world.