About the Project
UPDATE -All warrant articles passed!
Click here to view the NEW Fort Rock flyer (3-31-2024)
Click here to view the FAQ (Updated 1-16-2024)
Work Done to Date and Future Timeline (2-12-2024)
For a more complete description of the project view this document.
Communities across New England explore their local green spaces to experience the joys of nature. While some places have guaranteed public access, in many cases access to land is through handshake agreements and invitations from landowners.
Though this generosity is appreciated, public access is not guaranteed for the long-term. From generational ownership change, to sale for development, access to private lands can end in an instant. Trust for Public Land (TPL) works with communities to ensure permanent outdoor access and recreation for all. For thirty years, TPL has partnered with New Hampshire towns, land trusts, and grassroots advocates to protect over 262,000 acres of land in NH to benefit local communities.
Now, we have an opportunity in Newfields and Exeter to provide these communities with 148-acres of trails, forest, and water resources. TPL is committed to partnering with Southeast Land Trust, the Towns of Newfields and Exeter, trail user groups, and residents to protect a threatened, private landscape as a new Community Forest. With the purchase of 101 acres in Newfields and 47 acres in Exeter, the existing town forests will be expanded by 33%, and public access will be vastly improved by a new parking area and trailhead.
For more detailed information about the Community Forest Model view this document.
Community Forests are created for the community, by the community. Community Forests can provide a source of revenue and jobs from timber harvesting and tourism, bring close-to-home recreational opportunities to enhance residents’ health and quality of life, and protect remaining natural areas from development.
The public provides input through open public meetings to make sure these forests suit local needs and goals. Once created, the Newfields-Exeter Community Forest will be added to an existing block of 488-acres of protected land spanning both towns to improve public access. Ongoing use and management ill continue to be informed by the public.