Simpson Easement
Description
The Simpson Easement is in close proximity to more than 1,000 acres of existing conserved lands including the New Hampshire Fish and Game Garland Pond Wildlife Management Area and is adjacent to a larger pending conservation project on Chickville Road, significantly enlarging a contiguous block of conserved lands. With Carroll County experiencing a high rate of new building development, expanding on this existing wildlife corridor is crucial for supporting biodiversity in the region and protecting the rural character that local residents cherish.
The easement contains Appalachian oak pine forest, forested wetlands, and two acres of old field habitat making it a high traffic area for migrating bird species. It is a valuable buffer to Garland Pond, and directly abuts the NH Fish and Game Garland Pond Wildlife Management Area (WMA), as well as the Beech River that feeds into the pond. The property also falls within the highest priority for conservation under MMRG’s Conservation Action Plan, and has excellent potential for supporting climate change mitigation.
This conservation project was completed with a $45,000 grant from The New Hampshire Land and Community Heritage Investment Program (LCHIP) which provides matching grants to projects that conserve important New Hampshire landscapes. The Simpson Easement is also a recipient of a $25,000 grant from NH State Conservation Committee Conservation License Plate Grant Program (Moose Plate). The project was also completed with financial support from public fundraising efforts thanks to many generous individuals. MMRG additionally wishes to thank Dana and Carol Simpson, the dedicated landowners who advocated for and supported the project through to its completion.