Hartland, Vermont

Pohl Conservation Area

Land Description

The Timotheus Pohl Conservation Area spans 75 acres of mixed hardwood forests and meadows, located just north of Hartland’s village center. It’s a short walk from the post office, village store and town services. With frontage on three roads, the fields offer long views from the Quechee Road and Bischoff Lane. UVLT’s ownership secures land at the core of a popular Nordic ski trail system, protects working farmland and will provide new all season trail access and the opportunity for affordable housing development.

Trail or Usage Description

The Pohl Conservation Area is home to an extensive trail system that is integral to Hartland’s volunteer-led Nordic ski program. The network of ski trails loops through the woods and meadows and connects to trails crossing dozens of other privately-owned parcels. Under UVLT’s ownership, trails on the Pohl property will be evaluated in summer 2025 to determine which may be open for all season pedestrian use. The farm fields will remain leased to a local farmer for hay and trail routes will protect farmland from recreational impacts during crop seasons.

Parking

Parking is conveniently available near the village center of Hartland, within walking distance of the Pohl property. UVLT is currently developing plans for installing parking on the Pohl property (summer/fall 2025). For winter access to ski trails, please check the website of Hartland Winter Trails.

Map

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Community Collaboration and Housing Opportunities

Former owner Timotheus Pohl knew how much his property contributed to the vibrancy of Hartland’s village. When he needed to sell the property due to his declining health, UVLT worked with area residents to find a solution. Meeting with representatives of a regional housing trust as well as Aging in Hartland, the Hartland Conservation Commission, Hartland Winter Trails, and the Town’s Selectboard, UVLT determined that 7 acres of the Pohl land could be suitable for much-needed housing development without substantially compromising the trail network or the property’s conservation values. The result is a “multi-goal” achievement supported by a $100,000 Town Meeting appropriation, a $228,000 grant from the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board, and a fundraising campaign led by Hartland residents that raised nearly $300,000 from more than 40 households. This collaboration ensures the space remains a valuable resource for Hartland’s residents and future generations.

Recent Pohl Conservation Area Articles

Conservation Campaign Succeeds in Hartland

July 31, 2024

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Establishment of the Timotheus Pohl Conservation Area is moving forward with the strong support of area residents and the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board. UVLT and the Hartland Conservation Commission have been working together to raise the funds needed to purchase the land which is located just at the edge of the Hartland Three Corners village.