WHAT A HOOT!
THANK YOU FOR A WONDERFUL EYES ON OWLS EVENT!
Wow! What a fun and informative program we all shared thanks to
Mark & Marcia Wilson from EYES ON OWLS!
The day was warm, but a terrific audience from near and far gathered inside with Sandwich Fairgrounds Arts & Crafts building on Saturday, August 21. With doors open wide there was plenty of fresh air and space to enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience.
The Eyes on Owl program offered us all a chance to see live and up close a variety of owls including Barred Owl, Northern Saw-whet Owl, Eastern Screech Owl, Great-horned Owl as well as the world's largest owl, the Eurasian Eagle Owl. Also in the entourage was a gorgeous American Kestrel! Everyone was delighted to see these animals in person and learn their feeding and behavioral habits. The enthusiastic crowd got a kick out of learning to do some of the owl’s hoots and calls, but none could compare to the Wilson’s perfect mimicry...what a treat!
Mark & Marcia Wilson have an incredible amount of experience and knowledge of owls and raptors, and everyone learned something new. The owls (who are not able to survive on their own in the wild) were just BEAUTIFUL and are they so fortunate to be in the care of these outstanding naturalists.
If you attended this fantastic event, we thank you and hope you had a great experience! There are many thanks to go out but we at Chapman Sanctuary & Visny Woods would especially like to thank:
THANK YOU FOR A WONDERFUL EYES ON OWLS EVENT!
Wow! What a fun and informative program we all shared thanks to
Mark & Marcia Wilson from EYES ON OWLS!
The day was warm, but a terrific audience from near and far gathered inside with Sandwich Fairgrounds Arts & Crafts building on Saturday, August 21. With doors open wide there was plenty of fresh air and space to enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience.
The Eyes on Owl program offered us all a chance to see live and up close a variety of owls including Barred Owl, Northern Saw-whet Owl, Eastern Screech Owl, Great-horned Owl as well as the world's largest owl, the Eurasian Eagle Owl. Also in the entourage was a gorgeous American Kestrel! Everyone was delighted to see these animals in person and learn their feeding and behavioral habits. The enthusiastic crowd got a kick out of learning to do some of the owl’s hoots and calls, but none could compare to the Wilson’s perfect mimicry...what a treat!
Mark & Marcia Wilson have an incredible amount of experience and knowledge of owls and raptors, and everyone learned something new. The owls (who are not able to survive on their own in the wild) were just BEAUTIFUL and are they so fortunate to be in the care of these outstanding naturalists.
If you attended this fantastic event, we thank you and hope you had a great experience! There are many thanks to go out but we at Chapman Sanctuary & Visny Woods would especially like to thank:
- Marcia & Mark Wilson of EYES ON OWLS
- The Sandwich Fair Association for the use of the Arts & Crafts Building
- Our CSVW Members & Donors
- An EXTRA special thank you to our Anonymous Donor for funding this event
CHECK BACK SOON!
This page will update with information regarding:
This page will update with information regarding:
- Our favorite Annual Events
- Exciting new events
- Fun ways to visit and volunteer Champman Sanctuary & Visny Woods
TRAIL REPORT
MARCH 7, 2021
TRAILS ARE GOOD thanks to our caretaker and to several volunteers! After the the big wind storm, there was a lot of work to be done and you will see that many downed trees needed to be cut and cleared from the trails. Some evidence of the storm remains, but the trails have been groomed and are waiting for you!
With active streams and sunny spots throughout the acreage, you may encounter some wet or some icy areas. It is always important to be aware of your surroundings and weather conditions while you are enjoying the trails and the forest. Dress in layers so you will be ready for the unpredictable temperatures typical of March.
Please be mindful and take care not to stray from the trails as this may disturb some important habitats, nests and/or dwelling locations. Thank you - ENJOY!
Grab your gear and GET OUTSIDE ON THE TRAILS!
Join us soon and enjoy the beautiful CSVW Trails & Teacup Lake, gardens, birds and wildlife!C
TRAILS ARE GOOD thanks to our caretaker and to several volunteers! After the the big wind storm, there was a lot of work to be done and you will see that many downed trees needed to be cut and cleared from the trails. Some evidence of the storm remains, but the trails have been groomed and are waiting for you!
With active streams and sunny spots throughout the acreage, you may encounter some wet or some icy areas. It is always important to be aware of your surroundings and weather conditions while you are enjoying the trails and the forest. Dress in layers so you will be ready for the unpredictable temperatures typical of March.
Please be mindful and take care not to stray from the trails as this may disturb some important habitats, nests and/or dwelling locations. Thank you - ENJOY!
Grab your gear and GET OUTSIDE ON THE TRAILS!
- Trails are well-maintained and groomed year round.
- Footwear appropriate for trails is recommended.
- Winter temperatures can be unpredictable so you may want to dress in layers. Extremely cold temperatures requires covering up exposed skin as much as possible to avoid frost bite.
- There are a few "blaze orange" vests available at the Visitor's Sign-in Kiosk for our guests to wear on the trails if they wish to borrow one. Please return them to the Visitor's Kiosk.
- As always, please remember to sign in at the Visitor's Kiosk.
- REMINDER: RIVER TRAIL is for "snowshoe ONLY" in winter.
Join us soon and enjoy the beautiful CSVW Trails & Teacup Lake, gardens, birds and wildlife!C
TRAIL REPORT
MARCH 7, 2021
MARCH 7, 2021
TRAILS ARE IN GOOD SHAPE thanks to our caretaker and to several volunteers! After the the big wind storm, there was a lot of work to be done and you will see that many downed trees needed to be cut and cleared from the trails. Some evidence of the storm remains, but the trails have been groomed and are waiting for you!
With active streams and sunny spots throughout the acreage, you may encounter some wet or some icy areas. It is always important to be aware of your surroundings and weather conditions while you are enjoying the trails and the forest. Dress in layers so you will be ready for the unpredictable temperatures typical of March.
Please be mindful and take care not to stray from the trails as this may disturb some important habitats, nests and/or dwelling locations.
Thank you - ENJOY!
Grab your gear and GET OUTSIDE ON THE TRAILS!
- Trails are well-maintained and groomed year round.
- Footwear appropriate for trails is recommended.
- Winter temperatures can be unpredictable so you may want to dress in layers. Extremely cold temperatures requires covering up exposed skin as much as possible to avoid frost bite.
- There are a few "blaze orange" vests available at the Visitor's Sign-in Kiosk for our guests to wear on the trails if they wish to borrow one. Please return them to the Visitor's Kiosk.
- As always, please remember to sign in at the Visitor's Kiosk.
- REMINDER: RIVER TRAIL is for "snowshoe ONLY" in winter.
Join us soon and enjoy the beautiful CSVW Trails, Teacup Lake, gardens, birds and wildlife!
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THANK YOU ... Ed Parsons of The Conway Daily Sun. Ed Parsons of the The Conway Daily Sun recently spent a super day on the trails at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods. We are so glad that he enjoyed the trails and grateful that he shared his experience at CSVW in his column "Week Enders". You can read harticle here: |
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Mr. Parsons, we hope you will COME ON BACK SOON and enjoy all of the beauty that nature has to offer throughout each season at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods.
You can read the full Autumn 2017 Forest Notes magazine online via their website.
The Bates article begins on page 29.
The Bates article begins on page 29.
Trails Champion is all about Connecting
Easement Protects 68 Acres along Cold River
By Brenda Charpentier
No matter how long and scenic a trail may be in Sandwich, N.H., cross-country skiing enthusiast
George Bates is always, always going to think it needs to be two more things: longer and
protected into perpetuity.
For evidence, look no further than a beautiful forest next to the Cold River that Bates and his wife Nancy have recently bought and protected by donating a conservation easement on it to the Forest Society. It’s the fifth easement they have donated in the Sandwich area, all with the goal of connecting trail systems and making sure they remain open for skiing and other
minimal- impact recreation.
Bates is a businessman who at 85 continues to work as president of a packaging company in Massachusetts and in March completed a 33.5-mile Nordic skiing race up and down two mountains in Norway called the Birkebeiner. You could say he knows how to go the distance. That includes his decades of work in land conservation. His latest project, completed in September, protects 68 acres along the Cold River and was the second easement donated to the Forest Society (he also works with other conservation groups). In 2013, the Bateses conserved another 58 acres with the Forest Society, also along the Cold River in Sandwich.
While the protected Cold River frontage is a highlight of these properties from an ecological standpoint, for Bates both projects are all about the trails. By purchasing and conserving the first property, he was able to connect trails and ensure access to some of his family’s favorite skiing trails around Young Mountain, all the while keeping those trails open to the public as well. Bates acquired and conserved the more recent property in order to connect to trails on the abutting Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods, where 10 miles of trails connect to those on the White Mountain National Forest.
“It really makes a very nice network,” Bates said. “People can start in any number of places and go a long way in all directions.”
George and Nancy live in Weston, Mass., where he is very active in the Weston Forest and Trail Association. A long relationship with the Forest Society began back in the late 1980s, when Bates acquired his first Sandwich property, 106 acres protected by a Forest Society deed restriction, in order to provide recreational access to the Flat Mountain Pond Trail from Whiteface Intervale Road. He secured this access to the popular trail -- with connections to the Guinea Pond Trail -- by providing a right-of-way across his land to the U.S. Forest Service. He and Nancy liked the area so much they had a house built on the property, which has become their base for long-distance skiing and trails building.
The new easement on 68 acres protects a forest that is within a focus area of the Forest Society’s Lakes Region Conservation Plan. It boasts the county’s champion Bigtooth Aspen, according to the N.H. Big Tree Program, plus large hemlock, yellow birch and ash trees that have gained their distinctive girth thanks to growing on steep slopes not amenable to harvesting. The picturesque trails follow the excellent trout habitat of the Cold River. Most importantly to Bates, the piece connects to thousands of acres of conserved land, extending the block of protection to the east of the White Mountain National Forest.
“It’s a beautiful river, and it’s nice to see it and hike along it, but my primary reason was to connect the trails,” Bates said.
“It really makes a very nice network,” Bates said. “People can start in any number of places and go a long way in all directions.”
George and Nancy live in Weston, Mass., where he is very active in the Weston Forest and Trail Association. A long relationship with the Forest Society began back in the late 1980s, when Bates acquired his first Sandwich property, 106 acres protected by a Forest Society deed restriction, in order to provide recreational access to the Flat Mountain Pond Trail from Whiteface Intervale Road. He secured this access to the popular trail -- with connections to the Guinea Pond Trail -- by providing a right-of-way across his land to the U.S. Forest Service. He and Nancy liked the area so much they had a house built on the property, which has become their base for long-distance skiing and trails building.
The new easement on 68 acres protects a forest that is within a focus area of the Forest Society’s Lakes Region Conservation Plan. It boasts the county’s champion Bigtooth Aspen, according to the N.H. Big Tree Program, plus large hemlock, yellow birch and ash trees that have gained their distinctive girth thanks to growing on steep slopes not amenable to harvesting. The picturesque trails follow the excellent trout habitat of the Cold River. Most importantly to Bates, the piece connects to thousands of acres of conserved land, extending the block of protection to the east of the White Mountain National Forest.
“It’s a beautiful river, and it’s nice to see it and hike along it, but my primary reason was to connect the trails,” Bates said.
You can read the full Autumn 2017 Forest Notes magazine online via their website.
The Bates article begins on page 29.
The Bates article begins on page 29.
Trails Champion is all about Connecting
Easement Protects 68 Acres along Cold River
By Brenda Charpentier
Easement Protects 68 Acres along Cold River
By Brenda Charpentier
No matter how long and scenic a trail may be in Sandwich, N.H., cross-country skiing enthusiast
George Bates is always, always going to think it needs to be two more things: longer and
protected into perpetuity.
For evidence, look no further than a beautiful forest next to the Cold River that Bates and his wife Nancy have recently bought and protected by donating a conservation easement on it to the Forest Society. It’s the fifth easement they have donated in the Sandwich area, all with the goal of connecting trail systems and making sure they remain open for skiing and other minimal- impact recreation.
Bates is a businessman who at 85 continues to work as president of a packaging company in Massachusetts and in March completed a 33.5-mile Nordic skiing race up and down two mountains in Norway called the Birkebeiner. You could say he knows how to go the distance. That includes his decades of work in land conservation. His latest project, completed in September, protects 68 acres along the Cold River and was the second easement donated to the Forest Society (he also works with other conservation groups). In 2013, the Bateses conserved another 58 acres with the Forest Society, also along the Cold River in Sandwich.
While the protected Cold River frontage is a highlight of these properties from an ecological standpoint, for Bates both projects are all about the trails. By purchasing and conserving the first property, he was able to connect trails and ensure access to some of his family’s favorite skiing trails around Young Mountain, all the while keeping those trails open to the public as well. Bates acquired and conserved the more recent property in order to connect to trails on the abutting Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods, where 10 miles of trails connect to those on the White Mountain National Forest.
George Bates is always, always going to think it needs to be two more things: longer and
protected into perpetuity.
For evidence, look no further than a beautiful forest next to the Cold River that Bates and his wife Nancy have recently bought and protected by donating a conservation easement on it to the Forest Society. It’s the fifth easement they have donated in the Sandwich area, all with the goal of connecting trail systems and making sure they remain open for skiing and other minimal- impact recreation.
Bates is a businessman who at 85 continues to work as president of a packaging company in Massachusetts and in March completed a 33.5-mile Nordic skiing race up and down two mountains in Norway called the Birkebeiner. You could say he knows how to go the distance. That includes his decades of work in land conservation. His latest project, completed in September, protects 68 acres along the Cold River and was the second easement donated to the Forest Society (he also works with other conservation groups). In 2013, the Bateses conserved another 58 acres with the Forest Society, also along the Cold River in Sandwich.
While the protected Cold River frontage is a highlight of these properties from an ecological standpoint, for Bates both projects are all about the trails. By purchasing and conserving the first property, he was able to connect trails and ensure access to some of his family’s favorite skiing trails around Young Mountain, all the while keeping those trails open to the public as well. Bates acquired and conserved the more recent property in order to connect to trails on the abutting Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods, where 10 miles of trails connect to those on the White Mountain National Forest.
“It really makes a very nice network,” Bates said. “People can start in any number of places and go a long way in all directions.”
George and Nancy live in Weston, Mass., where he is very active in the Weston Forest and Trail Association. A long relationship with the Forest Society began back in the late 1980s, when Bates acquired his first Sandwich property, 106 acres protected by a Forest Society deed restriction, in order to provide recreational access to the Flat Mountain Pond Trail from Whiteface Intervale Road. He secured this access to the popular trail -- with connections to the Guinea Pond Trail -- by providing a right-of-way across his land to the U.S. Forest Service. He and Nancy liked the area so much they had a house built on the property, which has become their base for long-distance skiing and trails building.
The new easement on 68 acres protects a forest that is within a focus area of the Forest Society’s Lakes Region Conservation Plan. It boasts the county’s champion Bigtooth Aspen, according to the N.H. Big Tree Program, plus large hemlock, yellow birch and ash trees that have gained their distinctive girth thanks to growing on steep slopes not amenable to harvesting. The picturesque trails follow the excellent trout habitat of the Cold River. Most importantly to Bates, the piece connects to thousands of acres of conserved land, extending the block of protection to the east of the White Mountain
National Forest.
“It’s a beautiful river, and it’s nice to see it and hike along it, but my primary reason was to connect the trails,” Bates said.
George and Nancy live in Weston, Mass., where he is very active in the Weston Forest and Trail Association. A long relationship with the Forest Society began back in the late 1980s, when Bates acquired his first Sandwich property, 106 acres protected by a Forest Society deed restriction, in order to provide recreational access to the Flat Mountain Pond Trail from Whiteface Intervale Road. He secured this access to the popular trail -- with connections to the Guinea Pond Trail -- by providing a right-of-way across his land to the U.S. Forest Service. He and Nancy liked the area so much they had a house built on the property, which has become their base for long-distance skiing and trails building.
The new easement on 68 acres protects a forest that is within a focus area of the Forest Society’s Lakes Region Conservation Plan. It boasts the county’s champion Bigtooth Aspen, according to the N.H. Big Tree Program, plus large hemlock, yellow birch and ash trees that have gained their distinctive girth thanks to growing on steep slopes not amenable to harvesting. The picturesque trails follow the excellent trout habitat of the Cold River. Most importantly to Bates, the piece connects to thousands of acres of conserved land, extending the block of protection to the east of the White Mountain
National Forest.
“It’s a beautiful river, and it’s nice to see it and hike along it, but my primary reason was to connect the trails,” Bates said.
You can read the full Autumn 2017 Forest Notes magazine online via their website.
The Bates article begins on page 29.
The Bates article begins on page 29.
Trails Champion is all about Connecting
Easement Protects 68 Acres along Cold River
By Brenda Charpentier
No matter how long and scenic a trail may be in Sandwich, N.H., cross-country skiing enthusiast
George Bates is always, always going to think it needs to be two more things: longer and
protected into perpetuity.
For evidence, look no further than a beautiful forest next to the Cold River that Bates and his wife Nancy have recently bought and protected by donating a conservation easement on it to the Forest Society. It’s the fifth easement they have donated in the Sandwich area, all with the goal of connecting trail systems and making sure they remain open for skiing and other minimal- impact recreation.
Bates is a businessman who at 85 continues to work as president of a packaging company in Massachusetts and in March completed a 33.5-mile Nordic skiing race up and down two mountains in Norway called the Birkebeiner. You could say he knows how to go the distance. That includes his decades of work in land conservation. His latest project, completed in September, protects 68 acres along the Cold River and was the second easement donated to the Forest Society (he also works with other conservation groups). In 2013, the Bateses conserved another 58 acres with the Forest Society, also along the Cold River in Sandwich.
While the protected Cold River frontage is a highlight of these properties from an ecological standpoint, for Bates both projects are all about the trails. By purchasing and conserving the first property, he was able to connect trails and ensure access to some of his family’s favorite skiing trails around Young Mountain, all the while keeping those trails open to the public as well. Bates acquired and conserved the more recent property in order to connect to trails on the abutting Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods, where 10 miles of trails connect to those on the White Mountain National Forest.
“It really makes a very nice network,” Bates said. “People can start in any number of places and go a long way in all directions.”
George and Nancy live in Weston, Mass., where he is very active in the Weston Forest and Trail Association. A long relationship with the Forest Society began back in the late 1980s, when Bates acquired his first Sandwich property, 106 acres protected by a Forest Society deed restriction, in order to provide recreational access to the Flat Mountain Pond Trail from Whiteface Intervale Road. He secured this access to the popular trail -- with connections to the Guinea Pond Trail -- by providing a right-of-way across his land to the U.S. Forest Service. He and Nancy liked the area so much they had a house built on the property, which has become their base for long-distance skiing and trails building.
The new easement on 68 acres protects a forest that is within a focus area of the Forest Society’s Lakes Region Conservation Plan. It boasts the county’s champion Bigtooth Aspen, according to the N.H. Big Tree Program, plus large hemlock, yellow birch and ash trees that have gained their distinctive girth thanks to growing on steep slopes not amenable to harvesting. The picturesque trails follow the excellent trout habitat of the Cold River. Most importantly to Bates, the piece connects to thousands of acres of conserved land, extending the block of protection to the east of the White Mountain
National Forest.
“It’s a beautiful river, and it’s nice to see it and hike along it, but my primary reason was to connect the trails,” Bates said.
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You can read the full Autumn 2017 Forest Notes magazine online via their website.
The Bates article begins on page 29.
The Bates article begins on page 29.
IT FINALLY SNOWED!
...and then it rained...and then it snowed again!
January 2021
No matter what the weather is or what you like to do outside in winter, grab your gear and join us on the trails. Snow boots, snowshoes, or XC Skis are all appropriate for winter fun in the forest. CSVW Caretaker Paul is grooming the trails and it is always beautiful to spend a day surrounded by trees or checking out Teacup Lake.
Get outside and enjoy the day!
...and then it rained...and then it snowed again!
January 2021
No matter what the weather is or what you like to do outside in winter, grab your gear and join us on the trails. Snow boots, snowshoes, or XC Skis are all appropriate for winter fun in the forest. CSVW Caretaker Paul is grooming the trails and it is always beautiful to spend a day surrounded by trees or checking out Teacup Lake.
Get outside and enjoy the day!
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SAVE THE DATE!
2020 CSVW ANNUAL MEETING November 14, 2020 at 10:00am Sandwich Town Hall - Upstairs 8 Maple Street Center Sandwich, New Hampshire We are glad to announce the Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods Annual Meeting will be held on Saturday, November 14th upstairs in Sandwich Town Hall. Come see what we are all about! This year's meeting is expected to include exciting news and important topics concerning the trails, gardens, wildlife and habitat management. PLUS! projects and plans for the future. We value your input! The Annual Meeting is open to the public, the Sandwich Community and CSVW Members. NEWCOMERS WELCOME! Nature enthusiasts, gardeners, wildlife seekers, bird watchers, trail walkers/runners/hikers, cross-country skier/snowshoers ... ALL are welcome to come and share your thoughts with us. Join us on November 14th and bring your ideas and suggestions - we would love to hear from you! Plenty of free parking • Face coverings required. |
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Although some what rare in this area lately, there has been a gorgeous male pheasant strutting around CSVW and neighboring properties! Ring-necked Pheasants prefer open fields with some brush cover and the weedy areas along roadsides, making Chapman Sanctuary a perfect spot! What a thrill to see and hear the very loud call of this member of the grouse family, who so far seems right at home.
Male pheasants have some beautiful coppery plumage and a white ring around the neck. A red face and long tail feathers add up to a very stunning bird. Females are brown so that they blend in with their habitat and we hope they too are in the area, although so far we have not spotted any.
Be on the look out for this gorgeous bird when you visit the sanctuary and let us know if you see or (more likely) hear his rooster-like honk!
Male pheasants have some beautiful coppery plumage and a white ring around the neck. A red face and long tail feathers add up to a very stunning bird. Females are brown so that they blend in with their habitat and we hope they too are in the area, although so far we have not spotted any.
Be on the look out for this gorgeous bird when you visit the sanctuary and let us know if you see or (more likely) hear his rooster-like honk!
SIGHTINGS!
HOODED MERGANSER
A female Hooded Merganser has been seen going in and out of the duck box on Tea Cup Lake! There were a few pair of Hooded Mergansers on Tea Cup this spring and now there seems to be a lone female who we at the sanctuary hope is sitting on a nest in the duck box.
The female comes out to stretch wings, groom herself in the sun and to feed on the fish and tadpoles other small aquatic creatures that nature provides in the waters of Teacup Lake. The nesting box is visible from all areas of the water and after a short time she heads back inside the box.
Hooded Mergansers are the smallest of the native merganser species. As cavity nesters, they tend toward woodland areas with a pond nearby. In this case a female has taken advantage of the ready duck box that CSVW cleaned and prepared during the winter when Teacup was iced over.
If she is nesting she likely has anywhere from 7-12 eggs that will incubate for an average of 30-35 days. Within 24 hours of hatching, the mother will take to the water (or ground) and call her ducklings out of the nest. They will find their own food as babies, generally in the form of insects until they are older. They will be tended to by their mother for several weeks, fledging at around 60-70 days old.
We are eagerly awaiting and hoping for ducklings at the sanctuary! Sign in at the kiosk and hike down to Tea Cup and just maybe there will be a new family on the water!
Eggs
10-12, sometimes 7-13. White. Eggshell thicker than in most ducks. Females often lay eggs in each others' nests, also in nests of Wood Ducks and others. Incubation is by female only, 26-41 days, usually about 33 days. Young: within 24 hours after hatching, young leave nest; female calls to them from below, young climb to cavity entrance and jump to ground. Young find their own food; female tends young for several weeks. Young fledge about 70 days after hatching.
Youngwithin 24 hours after hatching, young leave nest; female calls to them from below, young climb to cavity entrance and jump to ground. Young find their own food; female tends young for several weeks. Young fledge about 70 days after hatching.
NestingPairs may form in late fall or winter. In most courtship displays, male's crest is prominently raised and spread. Nest site is in tree cavity near water, usually 10'-50' above ground, rarely up to 80' or more. Also uses artificial nest boxes. Nest of natural wood chips and debris in bottom of cavity, with down added.
.
HOODED MERGANSER
A female Hooded Merganser has been seen going in and out of the duck box on Tea Cup Lake! There were a few pair of Hooded Mergansers on Tea Cup this spring and now there seems to be a lone female who we at the sanctuary hope is sitting on a nest in the duck box.
The female comes out to stretch wings, groom herself in the sun and to feed on the fish and tadpoles other small aquatic creatures that nature provides in the waters of Teacup Lake. The nesting box is visible from all areas of the water and after a short time she heads back inside the box.
Hooded Mergansers are the smallest of the native merganser species. As cavity nesters, they tend toward woodland areas with a pond nearby. In this case a female has taken advantage of the ready duck box that CSVW cleaned and prepared during the winter when Teacup was iced over.
If she is nesting she likely has anywhere from 7-12 eggs that will incubate for an average of 30-35 days. Within 24 hours of hatching, the mother will take to the water (or ground) and call her ducklings out of the nest. They will find their own food as babies, generally in the form of insects until they are older. They will be tended to by their mother for several weeks, fledging at around 60-70 days old.
We are eagerly awaiting and hoping for ducklings at the sanctuary! Sign in at the kiosk and hike down to Tea Cup and just maybe there will be a new family on the water!
Eggs
10-12, sometimes 7-13. White. Eggshell thicker than in most ducks. Females often lay eggs in each others' nests, also in nests of Wood Ducks and others. Incubation is by female only, 26-41 days, usually about 33 days. Young: within 24 hours after hatching, young leave nest; female calls to them from below, young climb to cavity entrance and jump to ground. Young find their own food; female tends young for several weeks. Young fledge about 70 days after hatching.
Youngwithin 24 hours after hatching, young leave nest; female calls to them from below, young climb to cavity entrance and jump to ground. Young find their own food; female tends young for several weeks. Young fledge about 70 days after hatching.
NestingPairs may form in late fall or winter. In most courtship displays, male's crest is prominently raised and spread. Nest site is in tree cavity near water, usually 10'-50' above ground, rarely up to 80' or more. Also uses artificial nest boxes. Nest of natural wood chips and debris in bottom of cavity, with down added.
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NEWS!
The 2020 CSVW Annual Bird Walk was a hit!
The day was a bit overcast and the trees were not in full foliage, but there was a great turn out with lots of new faces including CSVW's new Caretaker Paul Healy. (Introduction coming soon!)
The adventurous group started out at Chappie's House and set off on the trails in search of warblers and other feathered friends. The warblers were a bit of a no-show and there were some very wet trails to be avoided, but that didn't discourage the troupe from scouring the woods and fields and treetops for signs of birdlife.
We were happy to receive feed back from a participant in attendance who described her experience ....
Good Memorial Day morning! I am writing to add my thoughts about attending the bird walk at Chapman Sanctuary/Visny Woods...
Delightful! I am so glad I attended.
I learned a lot, not only about bird calls and songs and habitat and such, but all those little tidbits that make learning so rewarding. Visually, what I will remember most is our guide showing us why an ovenbird is called an ovenbird. Who knew?!
Great place to view a variety of birds from woodlands to open fields. And a great place to simply take a walk along the well-planned trails.
Deb
P.S. Thanks for making available the Bird Song Identification Tips aka “cheat sheet!"
Nature never disappoints and we did hear and see lots of birds as well as some notable native plantains and other signs of wildlife such as scat and trees drilled out by the Pileated Woodpeckers.
Among the long list of birds heard & seen, there was a magnificent arial display by the Tree Swallows who have returned to the CSVW bird boxes for another season. Swallows soared high and dipped low and sailed past just above our heads in the field as they searched for insects or nesting material and it was special to be present in that moment. A big surprise was waiting down at Teacup Lake where a pair of Spotted Sandpipers were in the grasses of the shoreline. The male seemed to be courting the female with his wiggle walk and they occasionally flew across the water and disappeared momentarily in their perfect camouflage for the surroundings. What a treat!
This annual event is such a joy and was a welcome outing for all! Make sure you don't miss out on the fun in May 2021!
The 2020 CSVW Annual Bird Walk was a hit!
The day was a bit overcast and the trees were not in full foliage, but there was a great turn out with lots of new faces including CSVW's new Caretaker Paul Healy. (Introduction coming soon!)
The adventurous group started out at Chappie's House and set off on the trails in search of warblers and other feathered friends. The warblers were a bit of a no-show and there were some very wet trails to be avoided, but that didn't discourage the troupe from scouring the woods and fields and treetops for signs of birdlife.
We were happy to receive feed back from a participant in attendance who described her experience ....
Good Memorial Day morning! I am writing to add my thoughts about attending the bird walk at Chapman Sanctuary/Visny Woods...
Delightful! I am so glad I attended.
I learned a lot, not only about bird calls and songs and habitat and such, but all those little tidbits that make learning so rewarding. Visually, what I will remember most is our guide showing us why an ovenbird is called an ovenbird. Who knew?!
Great place to view a variety of birds from woodlands to open fields. And a great place to simply take a walk along the well-planned trails.
Deb
P.S. Thanks for making available the Bird Song Identification Tips aka “cheat sheet!"
Nature never disappoints and we did hear and see lots of birds as well as some notable native plantains and other signs of wildlife such as scat and trees drilled out by the Pileated Woodpeckers.
Among the long list of birds heard & seen, there was a magnificent arial display by the Tree Swallows who have returned to the CSVW bird boxes for another season. Swallows soared high and dipped low and sailed past just above our heads in the field as they searched for insects or nesting material and it was special to be present in that moment. A big surprise was waiting down at Teacup Lake where a pair of Spotted Sandpipers were in the grasses of the shoreline. The male seemed to be courting the female with his wiggle walk and they occasionally flew across the water and disappeared momentarily in their perfect camouflage for the surroundings. What a treat!
This annual event is such a joy and was a welcome outing for all! Make sure you don't miss out on the fun in May 2021!
Good Memorial Day morning! I am writing to add my thoughts about attending the bird walk at Chapman Sanctuary/Visny Woods...
Delightful! I am so glad I attended.
I learned a lot, not only about bird calls and songs and habitat and such, but all those little tidbits that make learning so rewarding. Visually, what I will remember most is our guide showing us why an ovenbird is called an ovenbird. Who knew?!
Great place to view a variety of birds from woodlands to open fields. And a great place to simply take a walk along the well-planned trails.
Deb
P.S. Thanks for making available the Bird Song Identification Tips aka “cheat sheet!"
Press release Date: _____________________
From: Eyes On Owls and ________________________________________________________
Re: Live Owl Program coming to ________________________________________________
Event date: ____________________________ Event time: _____________________________
Event location: _________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
Contact name and phone number of sponsoring organization: _______________________
Newspaper editor’s and photographer’s note: Great Photo Opportunities start when the hooting lessons begin and several live owls are brought out.
Press Release
From: Eyes On Owls and ________________________________________________________
Re: Live Owl Program coming to ________________________________________________
Event date: ____________________________ Event time: _____________________________
Event location: _________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
Contact name and phone number of sponsoring organization: _______________________
Newspaper editor’s and photographer’s note: Great Photo Opportunities start when the hooting lessons begin and several live owls are brought out.
Press Release
Barred Owl Photo © Mark Wilson / Eyes On Owls
Northern Saw-whet Owl Photo © Mark Wilson / Eyes On Owls
Great Horned Owl with young Photo © Mark Wilson / Eyes On Owls
Northern Saw-whet Owl Photo © Mark Wilson / Eyes On Owls
Great Horned Owl with young Photo © Mark Wilson / Eyes On Owls
EYES ON OWLS Live Owl Program coming to CSVW!
SATURDAY • APRIL 4, 2020
Sandwich Central School
28 Squam Lake Road
Center Sandwich, NH 03227
WHOOOOO'S watching you?
Find out on APRIL 4, 2020, when Eyes On Owls presents a live owl program in conjunction with Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods. All who attend are in for some fun with close-up views of these secretive birds of prey. Naturalists Marcia and Mark Wilson will present “Who’s Watching You? Owls of the World.”
The Wilsons will introduce the audience to owls found in New England as well other parts of the world. Marcia imitates the owls’ calls herself, paying special attention to the more common owls that we might encounter in our area.
After a hooting lesson and much audience anticipation, Marcia will bring out the LIVE OWLS one at a time. With each owl perched securely on her gloved hand, Marcia will walk out among the audience with six or seven owls. There will be plenty of time for close-up views of the owls, photos and questions.
Each owl presented has a permanent disability which prevents them from surviving on their own in the wild. These non-releasable owls are captivating ambassadors from the world of wildlife. The Wilsons are legally permitted by state and federal agencies to use live owls in their environmental educational programs.
JOIN US ON SATURDAY APRIL 4, 2020 as together we learn:
The Wilsons explore these questions and more during this fun, interactive program.
Use our easy PayPal option to RESERVE YOUR ADMISSION TO THE EYES ON OWLS PROGRAM !
Autographed copies of Mark's latest book, "Owling: Enter the World of the Mysterious Birds of the Night" piwill be available for purchase and take home. A great way to continue your interest in these amazing animals!
SATURDAY • APRIL 4, 2020
Sandwich Central School
28 Squam Lake Road
Center Sandwich, NH 03227
WHOOOOO'S watching you?
Find out on APRIL 4, 2020, when Eyes On Owls presents a live owl program in conjunction with Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods. All who attend are in for some fun with close-up views of these secretive birds of prey. Naturalists Marcia and Mark Wilson will present “Who’s Watching You? Owls of the World.”
The Wilsons will introduce the audience to owls found in New England as well other parts of the world. Marcia imitates the owls’ calls herself, paying special attention to the more common owls that we might encounter in our area.
After a hooting lesson and much audience anticipation, Marcia will bring out the LIVE OWLS one at a time. With each owl perched securely on her gloved hand, Marcia will walk out among the audience with six or seven owls. There will be plenty of time for close-up views of the owls, photos and questions.
Each owl presented has a permanent disability which prevents them from surviving on their own in the wild. These non-releasable owls are captivating ambassadors from the world of wildlife. The Wilsons are legally permitted by state and federal agencies to use live owls in their environmental educational programs.
JOIN US ON SATURDAY APRIL 4, 2020 as together we learn:
- Which owl eats skunks?
- Can a little detective work reveal where owls live near you?
- What do pellets tell us about an owl’s diet?
- How can we protect owls and their habitats?
The Wilsons explore these questions and more during this fun, interactive program.
Use our easy PayPal option to RESERVE YOUR ADMISSION TO THE EYES ON OWLS PROGRAM !
Autographed copies of Mark's latest book, "Owling: Enter the World of the Mysterious Birds of the Night" piwill be available for purchase and take home. A great way to continue your interest in these amazing animals!
April 4 1:00 Sandwich Central School
Naturalist and photographer, Marcia and Mark Wilson will introduce the owls found in New England and describe their unique adaptations through a slide show of photos. After a hooting lesson and much audience participation, Marcia will bring out the live owls, one at a time. With each owl perched securely on her glove, Marcia then will walk out into the audience. Each owl has a permanent disability that keeps it from surviving on its own in the wild. These non-releasable owls serve as ambassadors from the world of wildlife.
Mark and Marcia have years of working with and raising owls, education, and engagement with New England natural history. Mark’s book Owling: enter the world of the Mysterious Birds of the Night will be for sale at the talk.
$10 for members; $12 non-members; $25 per family.
Pay with Paypal on website, check, or cash only.
284 6428 for reservations
www.chapmansanctuaryvisnywoods.com
Please go to Mark and Marcia's website for more information, pictures of their work and this wonderful program coming to Sandwich: http://eyesonowls.com/
Naturalist and photographer, Marcia and Mark Wilson will introduce the owls found in New England and describe their unique adaptations through a slide show of photos. After a hooting lesson and much audience participation, Marcia will bring out the live owls, one at a time. With each owl perched securely on her glove, Marcia then will walk out into the audience. Each owl has a permanent disability that keeps it from surviving on its own in the wild. These non-releasable owls serve as ambassadors from the world of wildlife.
Mark and Marcia have years of working with and raising owls, education, and engagement with New England natural history. Mark’s book Owling: enter the world of the Mysterious Birds of the Night will be for sale at the talk.
$10 for members; $12 non-members; $25 per family.
Pay with Paypal on website, check, or cash only.
284 6428 for reservations
www.chapmansanctuaryvisnywoods.com
Please go to Mark and Marcia's website for more information, pictures of their work and this wonderful program coming to Sandwich: http://eyesonowls.com/
CSVW would like to thank our generous sponsor who's contributions have helped to make the Eyes On Owls program possible!
NAME
NAME
NAME
NAME
NAME
NAME
Owl Book Announcement
from
Eyes On Owls
email: eyesonowls@earthlink.net ~ web: eyesonowls.com
office: 978-649-3779
Owling
by Mark Wilson
The owls at Eyes On Owls are excited! Mark and Marcia Wilson are releasing Mark's first book - Owling: Enter the World of the Mysterious Birds of the Night. It's a big kids' book that explores all 19 owl species that call North America home. Owling also introduces kids to people who work with owls - think artists, scientists, rehabilitators and teachers.
Filled with more than 225 of Mark's color wildlife photographs, the hardcover book opens a window into this fascinating group of birds. Each species of owl has its own mini chapter. Even the rarest and most elusive owls show themselves for Mark's telephoto lens and snappy text.
Where do you find owls? How can you identify an owl you see? Whose owl hoot or toot are you hearing? What do owls eat? What is an owl pellet? These questions and many others are answered with insightful photos, detailed captions and thoughtful text.
Signed copies of Owling are available for purchase NOW !! Price is $18.95 + $1 sales tax (MA residents) and shipping. Signed copies of the book can be purchased at our Public Programs (no shipping); if you'd like our Public Program Schedule (not published on our website for security purposes), just email us and we'll send it to you. Or, signed copies can pre-ordered by emailing us with your call back phone number, or by calling the Eyes On Owls office at 978-649-3779.
See the cover of Owling on the following page.
from
Eyes On Owls
email: eyesonowls@earthlink.net ~ web: eyesonowls.com
office: 978-649-3779
Owling
by Mark Wilson
The owls at Eyes On Owls are excited! Mark and Marcia Wilson are releasing Mark's first book - Owling: Enter the World of the Mysterious Birds of the Night. It's a big kids' book that explores all 19 owl species that call North America home. Owling also introduces kids to people who work with owls - think artists, scientists, rehabilitators and teachers.
Filled with more than 225 of Mark's color wildlife photographs, the hardcover book opens a window into this fascinating group of birds. Each species of owl has its own mini chapter. Even the rarest and most elusive owls show themselves for Mark's telephoto lens and snappy text.
Where do you find owls? How can you identify an owl you see? Whose owl hoot or toot are you hearing? What do owls eat? What is an owl pellet? These questions and many others are answered with insightful photos, detailed captions and thoughtful text.
Signed copies of Owling are available for purchase NOW !! Price is $18.95 + $1 sales tax (MA residents) and shipping. Signed copies of the book can be purchased at our Public Programs (no shipping); if you'd like our Public Program Schedule (not published on our website for security purposes), just email us and we'll send it to you. Or, signed copies can pre-ordered by emailing us with your call back phone number, or by calling the Eyes On Owls office at 978-649-3779.
See the cover of Owling on the following page.
CHAPMAN SANCTUARY AND VISNY WOODS
Center Sandwich, NH
Chapmansanctuaryvisnywoods.com
IMMEDIATE JOB OPENING: FULL TIME, YEAR-ROUND RESIDENT CARETAKER
ABOUT CHAPMAN SANCTUARY AND VISNY WOODS
Established in 1955, Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods (CSVW) is a 501c3 nonprofit nature, bird, and wildlife sanctuary in Center Sandwich, NH. It is a place to connect with nature and explore wildlife in their natural habitat across 250+ acres of woodland trails, meadows and streams. CSVW is open to the public free of charge, year round, from dawn to dusk. Outdoor and nature enthusiasts enjoy the 10+ miles of walking trails, which attract cross-country skiers and snow-shoers in winter months. The property includes Teacup Lake, perennial gardens, and an historic homestead built in the late 1700s with architectural features common for that time period. Educational activities led by NH nature, bird, and wildlife habitat experts are offered throughout the year. To learn more about CSVW, visit our website.
KEY ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
The primary roles of the resident caretaker are to be the onsite host for CSVW visitors, and to perform physical labor in maintaining the trails, woodlands and flower gardens for wildlife and visitors on a year-round basis. This includes grooming and maintaining 10+ miles of woodland trails for hiking, snow shoeing, and cross-country skiing. As a resident of the historic Chapman House, the caretaker is also responsible for the well-being of the home, and for ensuring any maintenance issues are addressed and remedied based on the board of trustees’ direction.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Greet and direct visitors
Maintain 10+ miles of trails for hiking and winter use
Fill bird feeders
Maintain birdhouses and wildlife habitats
Maintain neat appearance of Chapman house grounds
Preserve historic integrity of Chapman house
Coordinate volunteer activities as needed
Coordinate and lead trail walks and nature activities with local K-12 school groups and other groups
Collect and maintain visitor attendance records/sign in sheets
Any other duties as assigned by the Trustees
REGULAR WORK HOURS:
This is a full time, 40 hour per week, year-round job that includes residency at the Chapman House. Working on most weekends is to be expected.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS:
Possess a high level of initiative, ability to work independently, and strong time management skills
Possess an outgoing personality, along with the ability to comfortably engage with visitors of all ages
Ability to follow and execute directives from the trustees
Ability to perform physical outdoor labor on a year-round basis
Ability to perform trail grooming, lawn and field mowing, tree planting, and flower gardening
Ability to operate trail grooming and lawn/field/garden equipment (i.e. mower, weed whacker, tree/shrub clippers, chainsaw, snowmobile, tractor, etc.)
Ability to quickly learn the history of CSVW, and the feeding habits and habitats of birds and wildlife
Ability to perform general handyman skills
EXPERIENCE:
Trail maintenance and flower gardening knowledge and experience is desirable
Previous work experience at a nature preserve or state park is desirable
EDUCATION:
A degree in Forestry or Habitat Management is beneficial, but not required. Knowledge of birds, wildlife, and nature either through formal education, work experience or informal efforts with the ability to effectively demonstrate and articulate your acquired knowledge is important.
BACKGROUND CHECK:
As a condition of employment, you must be able to pass a criminal background check, drug test, and credit check.
DRIVER’S LICENSE:
A valid NH driver’s license is required.
SALARY AND BENEFITS:
Rent-free, year-round living accommodations in the historic Chapman House, a 3-bedroom, 1 bath home with living room, dining room, kitchen, partial basement, attic; washer and dryer onsite
Partial utility expenses included (heat, electricity, landline phone)
Annual salary of $10,000
Note: The board of trustees currently estimate the “value” of living rent-free in the Chapman House with partial utility expenses paid to be the current equivalent of approximately $18,500/year)
TO APPLY:
Email a cover letter, resume, and list of three references (names and contact information) to: CSVWcareers@gmail.com
Or mail the above to CSVW Caretaker Job, PO Box 96, Center Sandwich, NH 03227. If you have immediate questions, contact Robert Rowan, CSVW Board of Trustees president at (603)
Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants without regard to race, national origin, gender, disability or veteran status.
Center Sandwich, NH
Chapmansanctuaryvisnywoods.com
IMMEDIATE JOB OPENING: FULL TIME, YEAR-ROUND RESIDENT CARETAKER
ABOUT CHAPMAN SANCTUARY AND VISNY WOODS
Established in 1955, Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods (CSVW) is a 501c3 nonprofit nature, bird, and wildlife sanctuary in Center Sandwich, NH. It is a place to connect with nature and explore wildlife in their natural habitat across 250+ acres of woodland trails, meadows and streams. CSVW is open to the public free of charge, year round, from dawn to dusk. Outdoor and nature enthusiasts enjoy the 10+ miles of walking trails, which attract cross-country skiers and snow-shoers in winter months. The property includes Teacup Lake, perennial gardens, and an historic homestead built in the late 1700s with architectural features common for that time period. Educational activities led by NH nature, bird, and wildlife habitat experts are offered throughout the year. To learn more about CSVW, visit our website.
KEY ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
The primary roles of the resident caretaker are to be the onsite host for CSVW visitors, and to perform physical labor in maintaining the trails, woodlands and flower gardens for wildlife and visitors on a year-round basis. This includes grooming and maintaining 10+ miles of woodland trails for hiking, snow shoeing, and cross-country skiing. As a resident of the historic Chapman House, the caretaker is also responsible for the well-being of the home, and for ensuring any maintenance issues are addressed and remedied based on the board of trustees’ direction.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Greet and direct visitors
Maintain 10+ miles of trails for hiking and winter use
Fill bird feeders
Maintain birdhouses and wildlife habitats
Maintain neat appearance of Chapman house grounds
Preserve historic integrity of Chapman house
Coordinate volunteer activities as needed
Coordinate and lead trail walks and nature activities with local K-12 school groups and other groups
Collect and maintain visitor attendance records/sign in sheets
Any other duties as assigned by the Trustees
REGULAR WORK HOURS:
This is a full time, 40 hour per week, year-round job that includes residency at the Chapman House. Working on most weekends is to be expected.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS:
Possess a high level of initiative, ability to work independently, and strong time management skills
Possess an outgoing personality, along with the ability to comfortably engage with visitors of all ages
Ability to follow and execute directives from the trustees
Ability to perform physical outdoor labor on a year-round basis
Ability to perform trail grooming, lawn and field mowing, tree planting, and flower gardening
Ability to operate trail grooming and lawn/field/garden equipment (i.e. mower, weed whacker, tree/shrub clippers, chainsaw, snowmobile, tractor, etc.)
Ability to quickly learn the history of CSVW, and the feeding habits and habitats of birds and wildlife
Ability to perform general handyman skills
EXPERIENCE:
Trail maintenance and flower gardening knowledge and experience is desirable
Previous work experience at a nature preserve or state park is desirable
EDUCATION:
A degree in Forestry or Habitat Management is beneficial, but not required. Knowledge of birds, wildlife, and nature either through formal education, work experience or informal efforts with the ability to effectively demonstrate and articulate your acquired knowledge is important.
BACKGROUND CHECK:
As a condition of employment, you must be able to pass a criminal background check, drug test, and credit check.
DRIVER’S LICENSE:
A valid NH driver’s license is required.
SALARY AND BENEFITS:
Rent-free, year-round living accommodations in the historic Chapman House, a 3-bedroom, 1 bath home with living room, dining room, kitchen, partial basement, attic; washer and dryer onsite
Partial utility expenses included (heat, electricity, landline phone)
Annual salary of $10,000
Note: The board of trustees currently estimate the “value” of living rent-free in the Chapman House with partial utility expenses paid to be the current equivalent of approximately $18,500/year)
TO APPLY:
Email a cover letter, resume, and list of three references (names and contact information) to: CSVWcareers@gmail.com
Or mail the above to CSVW Caretaker Job, PO Box 96, Center Sandwich, NH 03227. If you have immediate questions, contact Robert Rowan, CSVW Board of Trustees president at (603)
Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants without regard to race, national origin, gender, disability or veteran status.
Bates Land Donation Increases CSVW Trail System
We are so grateful to our longtime CSVW supporters and neighbors, George and Nancy Bates, for their ongoing support of our mission.
The Bates’ acquired and conserved about 68 acres of property abutting CSVW specifically to enhance and grow our existing 10 miles of trails, which further connect to trails in the White Mountain National Forest. Their generous donation to CSVW has allowed us to offer visitors an incredible network of trails to enjoy year-round. Our trail maps have been updated and are available at the sign-in kiosk.
The Autumn 2017 issue of the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests / Forest Notes newsletter article profiled George, an avid cross-country skier, and his dedication to land conservation.
We are deeply saddened to share the news that George passed away on Monday, Feb 19th. Nancy tells us that he had spent the past three days cross country skiing the trails, enjoying the beauty of the woodlands that he loved.
It’s important to note that George was instrumental in helping CSVW to move from a private 501c3 nonprofit organization into a public 501c3, an accomplishment that would not have been possible without his guidance and advice. He is greatly missed, and his legacy will live on at CSVW.
Please take a moment to read the Forest Society’s Forest Notes article below: Trails Champion is all about Connecting: Easement Protects 68 Acres along Cold River by Brenda Charpentier.
As Nancy says, “it captures the essence of George brilliantly.”
You can read the full Autumn 2017 Forest Notes magazine online via their website. The Bates article begins on page 29.
Trails Champion is all about Connecting
Easement Protects 68 Acres along Cold River
By Brenda Charpentier
No matter how long and scenic a trail may be in Sandwich, N.H., cross-country skiing enthusiast George Bates is always, always going to think it needs to be two more things: longer and protected into perpetuity.
For evidence, look no further than a beautiful forest next to the Cold River that Bates and his wife Nancy have recently bought and protected by donating a conservation easement on it to the Forest Society. It’s the fifth easement they have donated in the Sandwich area, all with the goal of connecting trail systems and making sure they remain open for skiing and other minimal- impact recreation.
Bates is a businessman who at 85 continues to work as president of a packaging company in Massachusetts and in March completed a 33.5-mile Nordic skiing race up and down two mountains in Norway called the Birkebeiner. You could say he knows how to go the distance. That includes his decades of work in land conservation. His latest project, completed in September, protects 68 acres along the Cold River and was the second easement donated to the Forest Society (he also works with other conservation groups). In 2013, the Bateses conserved another 58 acres with the Forest Society, also along the Cold River in Sandwich.
While the protected Cold River frontage is a highlight of these properties from an ecological standpoint, for Bates both projects are all about the trails. By purchasing and conserving the first property, he was able to connect trails and ensure access to some of his family’s favorite skiing trails around Young Mountain, all the while keeping those trails open to the public as well. Bates acquired and conserved the more recent property in order to connect to trails on the abutting Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods, where 10 miles of trails connect to those on the White Mountain National Forest.
“It really makes a very nice network,” Bates said. “People can start in any number of places and go a long way in all directions.”
George and Nancy live in Weston, Mass., where he is very active in the Weston Forest and Trail Association. A long relationship with the Forest Society began back in the late 1980s, when Bates acquired his first Sandwich property, 106 acres protected by a Forest Society deed restriction, in order to provide recreational access to the Flat Mountain Pond Trail from Whiteface Intervale Road. He secured this access to the popular trail -- with connections to the Guinea Pond Trail -- by providing a right-of-way across his land to the U.S. Forest Service. He and Nancy liked the area so much they had a house built on the property, which has become their base for long-distance skiing and trails building.
The new easement on 68 acres protects a forest that is within a focus area of the Forest Society’s Lakes Region Conservation Plan. It boasts the county’s champion Bigtooth Aspen, according to the N.H. Big Tree Program, plus large hemlock, yellow birch and ash trees that have gained their distinctive girth thanks to growing on steep slopes not amenable to harvesting. The picturesque trails follow the excellent trout habitat of the Cold River. Most importantly to Bates, the piece connects to thousands of acres of conserved land, extending the block of protection to the east of the White Mountain National Forest.
“It’s a beautiful river, and it’s nice to see it and hike along it, but my primary reason was to connect the trails,” Bates said.
