Moose Mountains Regional Greenways Announces Permanent Conservation of the Ducharme Property in Wakefield, NH
Union, NH — Moose Mountains Regional Greenways (MMRG) announces the permanent conservation of the Ducharme easement project, a 32‑acre parcel in Wakefield, NH. The newly conserved property protects forest, wetlands, early successional habitat, and important forest soils that provide vital wildlife habitat. Acting as a natural buffer, the land will help protect the water quality of Great East Lake and the Salmon Falls River system by filtering pollutants, preventing erosion, and slowing stormwater runoff. The property is within three miles of more than 800 acres of conserved land, strengthening regional wildlife corridors and creating new opportunities for future conservation in the Wakefield area. The conservation of this parcel is an additional step towards the goal of connecting the existing regional greenway of already conserved lands across both New Hampshire and Maine.
MMRG Staff with Joel and Susan Ducharme at closing.
“The GELIA membership is proud to have contributed toward this successful conservation effort and look forward to working with MMRG on future projects that help to protect the Great East Lake watershed”, said Bob Stearns, President of the Great East Lake Improvement Association (GELIA).
The Ducharme property includes a mix of forest, wetlands, shrubland, and open fields that support many different wildlife species. Nearly the entire parcel is considered important for wildlife movement, with more than 7 acres identified as a key corridor where animals can travel safely across the landscape. NH Fish & Game also ranks over 4 acres as high quality wildlife habitat.
A beautiful winter scene on the Ducharme easement.
“By protecting this additional 32 acres of land, we are also helping to protect valuable frontage along the Upper Copp Brook which feeds directly into Great East Lake, one of the five lakes that make up the headwaters for the Salmon Falls River”, stated Veronica Bodge, Land Acquisition and Stewardship Coordinator for MMRG. The Ducharme Easement is an ideal example of how the conservation of individual parcels can play a prominent role in watershed protection on a larger scale. The property’s forests, wetlands, and water resources play a direct role in protecting the water quality of Great East Lake and the Salmon Falls River system.
This project was completed in collaboration with the Great East Lake Improvement Association (GELIA), the Adelard A. and Valeda Lea Roy Foundation, and with support from generous community members who recognize the importance of protecting clean water, wildlife habitat, and the natural character of Wakefield.
With permanent conservation now secured, MMRG looks forward to continuing its work with local partners to protect the region’s most important natural resources and ensure that places like the Ducharme property remain undeveloped, ecologically vibrant, and resilient for generations to come.
About Moose Mountains Regional Greenways
MMRG, a non-profit land trust, works to conserve and connect important water resources, farm and forest lands, wildlife habitats, and recreational land in Brookfield, Farmington, Middleton, Milton, New Durham, Wakefield, Ossipee, Tuftonboro and Wolfeboro. Throughout the year, MMRG offers many educational opportunities to inform all ages about the benefits of our region’s natural resources. For more information and a calendar of upcoming events, visit www.mmrgnh.org