Thanks to many partners including the Southeast Land Trust, Barrington Conservation Commission, NH Fish & Game, donors, and volunteers, a large unfragmented piece of high priority land has been conserved forever in Barrington, New Hampshire. Stonehouse Forest, some 1,500 acres of land adjacent to the popular Stonehouse Pond, supports vibrant wildlife, free flowing streams, and miles of trails. Barrington Conservation Commission Chair, John Wallace, a Natural Resources Steward from the Class of 1998, spoke passionately about this project at a recent gathering. John discussed not only the amazing wildlife and important headwater aspects, but also all of the work that was involved in putting the project together, including negotiations, fundraising, creating public awareness, and finally, protecting the land in perpetuity in December of 2017.
John Wallace is one of 400 Natural Resources Stewards that volunteer in their communities in many different ways. Stewards take on civic roles such as joining and/or leading local boards and commissions, they teach adults and children about nature in both outdoor and classrom settings, as well as particpate in "boots-on-the-ground" activities like trail building, invasive species removals, water quality testing, and much more. Every day in New Hampshire, Natural Resources Stewards are making a difference by working on amazing projects such as protecting Stonehouse Forest (learn more about Stonehouse Forest here). To find out more about Becoming a Natural Resources Steward click here.
