The Forest Society's mission includes conserving lands that provide recreational opportunities--and economic benefits through tourism--for New Hampshire residents and visitors. Visit this page to explore stories related to recreation on conserved lands.
As a kid, I remember the joy of splashing in puddles. After the snow melted and spring rain filled the ditch by our house, I’d grab an inner tube and play like I was at the beach.
The floodplain Conservation Area is home to many types of birds, from Great Blue Herons to wood ducks to warblers. Join Ellen Kenny, a veteran floodplain birdwatcher, and Linden Rayton, Floodplain Education Coordinator, for a walk through the trails in search of our feathered friends. Beginner birdwatchers expected! Bring your own binoculars or borrow one of ours (supplies are limited). Ages 12+. Long pants recommended. Event is free and space is limited to 20 people; pre-register using the link below.
Join Forest Society staffer Carrie Deegan for an exploration of dragonflies on the Merrimack River Floodplain in Concord. We’ll learn some of the basics about dragonfly biology and behavior, and use nets to capture and examine dragonflies and damselflies up close. All “dragons” will be released unharmed. If you have ever wondered what these amazing insects look like up close, this is a great opportunity to find out! Easy hike; children and families welcome. No dogs on this field trip, please. Bring footwear you don't mind getting wet if you'd like to try catching dragonflies!
At the Concord floodplain Conservation Area, the Merrimack River has a small off-branch known as a “meander.” Throughout this shallow and beautiful section, there are many freshwater mussels, small fish and other aquatic life that are easy to view and explore. Join Linden Rayton, Floodplain Education Coordinator, to cool off at the end of the day and discover all sorts of fun things. We will have nets and tubs to catch and release our findings. Bathingsuits, floaties, snorkels, masks and goggles, and your own nets are all appropriate to bring.
Join Linden Rayton, Forest Society Floodplain Education Coordinator, at the Merrimack River Conservation Area to explore the most common trees you see here and in your neighborhoods, along with some specialties you won’t see in a city park. Learn how trees communicate with each other, and their resiliency in the face of current challenges like invasive pests and climate change. After the program ends, you are in the perfect spot to cool off with a dip in the Merrimack River!
This July, the Forest Society with partners at NH State Parks will host “Monadnock Trails Week” beginning Friday July 19 through Tuesday July 23 in Jaffrey.
When the Forest Society protected 200 acres on Mount Major in 2015, our fundraising slogan was “Everybody Hikes Mount Major.” There has never been a more accurate campaign slogan, even in New Hampshire, home of the nation’s first primary.
