MMRG holds forest stewardship forum

MMRG Director of Land Conservation Keith Fletcher will be one of forum's featured presenters. (Courtesy photo)

On Thursday, February 26, Moose Mountains Regional Greenways and the Wakefield Conservation Commission will offer a free workshop called "Your Legacy in Land and Forests" from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in the Conference Room of the Wakefield Town Hall, 2 High St, Sanbornville, N.H. The presenters will be MMRG Director of Land Conservation Keith Fletcher and Wendy Scribner, new MMRG Board member and a Natural Resources Specialist for UNH Cooperative Extension. The workshop is co-sponsored by an anonymous Wakefield donor.

Scribner will show slides and talk about how thoughtful planning can help landowners get the most out of their land. Says Scribner, "If you own a piece of NH's forest, you are a steward of our clean water, beautiful scenery, wildlife, fresh air, natural and cultural heritage, not to mention the basis for our forest industry and much of our recreation. Forests take a long time to grow. Whether you are interested in improving wildlife habitat, growing good quality forest products, developing forest trails, or just keeping your forest healthy, thinking about your goals and learning about your land are the first steps to understanding your options and opportunities."

Fletcher will discuss how conservation easements can benefit the community and how some landowners can benefit from a tax deduction for donating an easement or selling one below market value. He will also bring a 'game' of chopsticks, used to demonstrate the process of negotiating the terms of a conservation easement.

This workshop will be helpful for woodlot owners and other landowners interested in learning about ways to improve their piece of the forest or to preserve their land for future generations. All members of the public interested in good stewardship of NH's natural resources are welcome to attend. Pre-registration is helpful but not required. For more information or to register, call MMRG Education Coordinator Kari Lygren at (603) 978-7125 or email info@mmrg.info.

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, 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.mmrg.info.