Branch River Conservation Area
Description
About Branch River Conservation Area:
This ecologically important land is located in Wakefield between the villages of Union and Sanbornville. The 12-mile long Branch River is a headwater tributary system that receives water from Lovell Lake and streams that flow from the Moose Mountains Reservation. After flowing through the Conservation Area, the river continues through Union Meadows, then follows a southeasterly course, and discharges into the Salmon Falls River at Northeast Pond in Milton. This conservation area helps to preserve a natural corridor for wildlife and recreation.
The parcel boasts notable biodiversity, providing a variety of wildlife habitats with its meandering river, emergent and shrub wetlands, and an uplands pine-oak forest. MMRG staff and volunteers have seen signs of deer, beaver, chipmunk, turtle, pileated woodpecker, as well as redwing blackbird habitat. Given the pristine water habitats, it’s likely that visitors will identify even more wildlife species.
The best public recreational opportunities of this property make use of the river for fishing, boating and wildlife viewing. Anglers have frequented this spot on the river and will continue to have access to toss in their lines. Public access for canoes and kayaks is available from a pull-off along Route 153. Canoers and kayakers who venture upstream will find an ideal picnic and exploring destination within the uplands forested knoll.
Links to More Information:
‘Paddle & Pub’ Event to Celebrate Branch River Conservation Purchase