Founded by a handful of concerned citizens in 1901, the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests is now one of the country's most effective statewide land conservation organizations. In 2026, we mark 125 years of conserving and caring for New Hampshire’s forests — a legacy built by generations of members, volunteers, landowners, and partners.
Our mission statement, developed in 1904, remains our guiding compass today:
"We are a forestry association seeking to perpetuate the forests of New Hampshire through their wise use and their complete reservation in places of special scenic beauty."
For 125 years, this balance of protection and wise use has defined who we are. As a nonprofit membership organization, the Forest Society is dedicated to protecting the state's most important landscapes while promoting the thoughtful stewardship of its renewable natural resources — work that continues to evolve as New Hampshire’s forests face new challenges.
Our accomplishments include:
- Helping to protect over one million acres of open space across New Hampshire — a century-long commitment that continues today.
- Promoting exemplary land stewardship through education and by example.
- Advocating for public policies that encourage the wise conservation of natural resources.
Forest Society-protected land to date
| Type of protection | Number of properties | Total acreage |
|---|---|---|
| Totals | 1,128 | 215,595 |
| Forest Society reservations | 208 | 68,013 |
| Forest Society-held conservation easements (grantee and executory) | 822 | 134,030 |
| Land transferred with deed restrictions | 98 | 13,552 |
* The Forest Society also provides assistance to land trusts, municipalities, state and federal agencies, and other conservation organizations to protect additional land throughout the state.
The Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests is a private, non-profit membership organization. We are a registered 501c3 non-profit. Our Taxpayer Identification Number is 02-0222237.
Explore Our Forests!
Use our Visitor Guide to plan a day in the woods or learn about land we own near you. Click here to see a map of our protected properties and get directions.
A Charity Navigator Four Star Charity
For its sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency, the Forest Society has received Charity Navigator's highest rating.