$50,000 Challenge Grant Boosts Effort to Protect 500 Acres of Wilkins Forest Land
Public Invited to Learn About Conservation Project Sept. 4
AMHERST-MONT VERNON – Aug. 21, 2013 -- The Society for the Protection of N.H. Forests has raised $145,000 of its $190,000 goal to protect more than 500 acres of forests owned by Tom and Sally Wilkins. Recent fundraising momentum has qualified the project for $50,000 in matching funds from the Russell Farm and Forest Conservation Foundation. The Forest Society needs to raise $45,000 by the end of September to complete this important project.
These forestlands, in Amherst and Mont Vernon, are actively managed for timber used by Wilkins Lumber Company in Milford, a source of local lumber for the region.
“This is a particularly gratifying project in one of the fastest developing areas of the state,” said Jane Difley, president/forester of the Forest Society, “In conserving these lands, the forests remain in the family as well-managed tree farms to supply materials to the Wilkins sawmill, and the public has continued access for passive recreation, hunting and fishing.”
The properties being protected are in multiple locations around Mont Vernon and Amherst, providing public access near many neighborhoods.
The Mont Vernon Conservation Commission is sponsoring a public presentation with the Forest Society on Wednesday, Sept. 4, at 7 p.m. at the Mont Vernon Village School, 1 Kittredge Road, Mont Vernon. Brian Hotz, Senior Director of Strategic Projects for the Forest Society, will give a presentation about the Wilkins Forest conservation project. The presentation is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served.