We are partnering with Branch Hill Farm for our annual Branch River Paddle on May 16th from 10am-2pm. Local canoe and kayak enthusiasts (ages 12+) will enjoy the opportunity to paddle on the beautiful Branch River in Milton Mills, NH. This event includes lunch as well as a talk from a guest speaker.
After paddling ~3 1/2 miles, participants will hike back to our launch site along the lovely trails on Branch Hill Farm, passing through forests and fields. Our kayaks/canoes will be trucked back from the upper end of Milton Three Ponds. The walk back is approximately 1 hour. Lunch will be offered to all the participants to either sit and enjoy along the trail or take with them for later. Participants should plan to bring their own water.
Information on guest speaker:
Jake Reynolds is an aquatic biologist with the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services where he serves as the Environmental Monitoring Database (EMD) Data Manager. In this role, he manages water quality data from hundreds of surface water and groundwater monitoring projects across the state. In addition to his state work, Jake also serves as Conservation Chair for the Great Bay Chapter of Trout Unlimited, where he helps advance coldwater fisheries protection and watershed restoration efforts.
His presentation aims to connect the dots between water sample collection, laboratory analysis, and how water quality science ultimately informs conservation action — supporting volunteer groups, municipalities, nonprofit organizations, and federal partners in protecting cold, clean water.
Paddlers will need to bring their own kayaks or canoes, and wear US Coast Guard approved personal flotation devices. A $15 per person donation is suggested. There is no rain date and pets are not permitted. Please arrive early.
Youth must be accompanied by an adult.
Spaces fill up fast.