UVLT Begins Smith Pond Shaker Forest Conservation Initiative

High on the ridge of Shaker Mountain in Enfield, 995 acres of forestland connects two large parcels owned by NH Fish and Game to create one contiguous forest block of over 5000 acres, the centerpiece of which is 63-acre Smith Pond. UVLT has taken on an exciting and ambitious effort to buy this land, long a priority of conservation groups and public agencies. The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services has approved a $363,000 grant through its Aquatic Resources Mitigation Fund to assist our purchase  — about 25% of the $1.5M purchase price! We’re working hard to secure the remaining funding. Our acquisition will enable long-term stewardship and restoration of important forest resources; it will protect the undeveloped shoreline of a spectacularly scenic pond and provide public access to this special place; it will safeguard streams and wetlands draining into the Mascoma River; it will preserve historic and archeological resources associated with the Enfield Shaker Village. More here.