Join Moose Mountains Regional Greenways for these upcoming events to get outside, enjoy Spring air, and learn more about critical wetland habitats that support diverse wildlife.
On Saturday, April 10th from 9:00am-11:00am, join us for a vernal pool walk! NH Coverts Project volunteer Tom Gardner will lead us on a guided walk of vernal pools at the Birch Ridge Community Forest in New Durham. Participants will learn about how to identify vernal pools and their key features and role in critical biological processes. Register for the Vernal Pool Walk here!
Tom Gardner has helped MMRG develop our MOOSE-ies program, and has previously led snowshoe and other events for us. He also teaches the Middleton Nature Club after-school program, and served as Pastor at Middleton Gospel Chapel.
On Saturday, May 8th from 10:00am-12:00pm, MMRG and the Acton Wakefield Watershed Alliance will co-host a wetlands workshop at the newly conserved Prentice Woods Preserve in Wakefield. Join natural resource scientists Dan Coons and Jon Balanoff for a watery walk as we investigate two distinct natural wetlands communities – vernal pools and peatlands – while learning about how wetlands function to support wildlife and water quality. Register for the Wetlands Ecology Workshop here!
Co-hosts Dan Coons and Jon Balanoff have decades of wetland science experience. After obtaining his MS in Natural Resources from UNH, Dan Coons began his own wetlands consulting and land planning company, ILEX Wetlands Consulting. He is active in the Wolfeboro community as a longtime member, and current vice-chair, of the town’s Conservation Commission. Jon Balanoff is the current Executive Director of the Acton Wakefield Watershed Alliance, joining the team in 2019. He received a B.S. in Environmental Conservation from UNH, and spent several years doing environmental consulting and another year as a program coordinator for the NHDES Coastal Program.
Pre-registration is required for both workshops – space is limited so sign up early! To offer safe outdoor activities during COVID-19, all participants are required to wear masks and to practice proper social distancing. Please email our office at greenways@mmrgnh.org with any questions.
