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News

  • Plan for Forest Society North at The Rocks meets another milestone

    Anne Truslow
    January 20, 2021

    The building renovation is the central element of a multi-phased plan to re-envision The Rocks.

  • Something Wild: Flying Under the Radar

    Dave Anderson, Chris Martin, Emily Quirk
    January 5, 2021

    Sometimes called a Marsh Hawk, the northern harrier is currently one the rarest birds of prey nesting in the Granite State.

  • Cold is Cool IF You're Prepared! A Guide to Winter Hiking & Recreation

    Anna Berry
    December 10, 2020

    A guide to plowed Forest Society reservations so you can recreate responsibly this winter.

Be Safe. Be Well. Be Local.

Step away from hiking hotspots and step into the nature of your own neighborhoods.
April 9, 2020
Recreation
Land Conservation
(Courtesy: The Nature Conservancy)

Nature is our ally during this difficult time. It has the power to soothe, uplift and restore. Governor Sununu has acknowledged the physical and mental health benefits of getting outside as we live under the COVID-19 stay-at-home order, while recommending that all of us play a role in ensuring the health and safety of our people and natural areas by recreating locally and responsibly.

Collectively, NH Audubon, The Nature Conservancy, and the Society for the Protection of NH Forests own and manage more than 90,000 acres of conservation land across New Hampshire. Currently, we are keeping our lands and trails open for public use, with drive-by monitoring to assess use levels. While overcrowding is a challenge we are monitoring closely, we believe natural areas offer outdoor experiences that are needed now more than ever. We are pleased to see people across the Granite State experiencing the restorative powers of a simple walk in the woods, and are equally pleased that most are heeding the message to enjoy those benefits locally and only when a place is not crowded.

It’s no secret that getting outside is good for you. And, in this time of social distancing, nature does not have to be far away. Now is an opportune time to explore your backyard or neighborhood, looking for nature in unexpected places. Spring’s arrival coincides with the return of migratory birds, providing the perfect setting to learn different species and their calls. Consider planting flowers or a garden. Live in an apartment? Try a planter of herbs in a sunny window.

While there is nothing like the real thing, there are online options too. Your favorite conservation organizations around the state are offering all types of nature-based content and opportunities online, typically through their Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. From virtual field trips and story hours, to backyard bioblitzes and photo challenges, there’s something for everyone to enjoy just outside—or inside—their front door.

If you simply must get a little deeper into the woods, please avoid popular spots, choose places that are close to home, and adhere to social distancing guidelines. Do your research — use our websites or those of a local land trust or conservation commission to identify open spaces near you. Have a plan B — if you find the parking area full, try a different location where social distancing will be easier.

This is a tough time when all we want to do is stretch our legs, get a little exercise and begin to enjoy the nicer weather. By stepping away from hiking hotspots and stepping into the nature of our own neighborhoods, we can help protect the people — and the places — we hold so dearly. Be Safe. Be Well. Be Local.

Doug Bechtel, NH Audubon
Doug Bechtel
President
New Hampshire Audubon    



Mark Zankel, The Nature Conservancy
Mark Zankel
State Director
The Nature Conservancy in New Hampshire



Jack Savage, Forest Society
Jack Savage
President
The Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests

 

 

This op-ed can also be read in the Concord Monitor and

The Union Leader

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Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests54 Portsmouth St.Concord, NH 03301
Phone: 603.224.9945Fax: 603.228.0423info@forestsociety.org
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