The Newfields NROC program started with the Dealing with Growth in Newfields presentation in January, 2000. Follow up activities were conducted in 2002, as part of the NROC-Squamscott Watershed Project. Newfields-NROC participants identified goals, and formed Action Groups to develop and implement specific actions to achieve their natural resources protection goals. These activities are described below. 

• Develop a Land Conservation program

• As a result, of this project, the Open Space Committee initiated three conservation easement projects (for a total of 118 acres of land); and contacts were made for additional land protection projects. In addition, the town now has prioritized land for future conservation efforts.

• With assistance from the Rockingham County Conservation District, developed proposals for and submitted state and federal funding applications for the NH DES Water Supply Land Grant Program and Federal Farmland Protection Program, along with a Coastal Watershed Land Protection Transaction Assistance fund Application. Received Farmland Protection Program Fund

• Coordinated and followed through conservation projects with four willing landowners (NROC/RCCD staff provided training and hands-on assistance working with landowners)

• Developed and implemented a natural resource prioritization procedure to focus protection efforts, facilitated by RCCD staff.

• Developed a brochure publicizing their open space protection efforts, with assistance from RCCD.

• Implemented a public education and outreach program, including:
  • An educational workshop on Land Conservation Options and Estate Planning for land owners.
  • Development of educational materials for landowners and other town residents.

• Contracted with Rockingham County Conservation District (RCCD) to guide and assist the Land Conservation Group with their work.

• Attended the NROC workshop, Developing an Effective Education & Outreach Strategy.