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Applications Rural Study Group 2007 |
Open Space Priorities Plan [2]II. CONSERVATION/RECREATION ACTION AREASIn its analysis of the open space needs of Hanover, the Open Space Committee took a broad approach. Sizable conservation areas, each of which encompasses many lots, were selected as the building blocks of the open space system. The eleven most valued conservation/recreation areas and their open space benefits are described in alphabetical order. A table summarizing the degree to which each of the conservation/recreation action areas fulfills the open space benefits criteria follows on page 46. APPALACHIAN TRAIL BUFFERS CONNECTICUT RIVER SHORELINE KING HILL CONNECTIONS LORD'S HILL LYME CONNECTION MINK BROOK CORRIDOR ETNA WALKWAY MONAHAN VALLEY MOOSE MOUNTAIN EAST MOOSE MOUNTAIN WEST SLADE BROOK WATER COMPANY LANDS (Photo in print edition) The Appalachian Trail Corridor, cutting diagonally across the town from southwest to northeast, needs to be buffered from new development. APPALACHIAN TRAIL BUFFERS The Appalachian Trail (AT) is a recreational corridor protected by the U. S. Government. It that threads its way through the heart of Hanover, along the spine of Moose Mountain, past rural homes, between suburban developments, and right down Hanover's Main Street. Most residents are only minutes away from the trail - one of the nation's pre-eminent recreational treasures. The AT allows a quick exit from the bustle of daily life in the Upper Valley. Even for those who cannot or choose not to hike within it, the Appalachian Trail corridor is one of Hanover's dominant scenic features. From many of our community's streets and roads, the passerby has a view of undeveloped ridgelines traversed by the AT, or of an expanse of forest through which the AT passes, providing a buffer between lands dominated by human activities. The trail corridor helps divide the local landscape into distinct areas, each with its own special character, substantially enhancing Hanover's unique scenery and "sense of place". Appalachian Trail through hikers on their way from Georgia to Maine (Photo in print edition) Ecologically, the AT corridor provides habitat for diverse flora and fauna, and permits wildlife dispersal through a landscape increasingly subdivided and disrupted by human activity. The AT corridor serves to protect a significant portion of the watershed of Mink Brook and other tributaries of the Connecticut River on the west side of town and to Goose Pond on the east. However, because the corridor of protected land along the Appalachian Trail through much of Hanover is fairly narrow, each of the above values is at risk. As development and increased human activity encroach from the north and south, the values and benefits that the corridor now exhibits will gradually decline. Open Space Benefits Water Supply-Much of the AT buffer land is within the watersheds of the Hanover Reservoirs. Its protection contributes positively to the quality of the water in the reservoirs. Surface Water - Of the areas shown as AT buffers on the Open Space Plan Map, one protects a significant section of Monahan Brook and a major associated wetland. Another carries water from the Third Hanover Reservoir down Monahan Brook, a major tributary of Mink Brook. Wetlands - See Surface Water above. Wildlife Habitat - The AT corridor permits wildlife dispersal through a landscape increasingly subdivided and disrupted by human activity. Widening narrow portions of the corridor would improve dispersal and habitat opportunities. Biodiversity - Ecologically, the trail corridor provides habitat for a diversity of flora and fauna. Harboring a full array of common woodland plants and animal species, the area includes some fine wetlands and an area of rich "mesic forest", with plant species rare in New Hampshire. "By virtue of the Velvet Rocks area...the Appalachian Trail has some of the rarest plant populations in Hanover...The forest condition is excellent along the Trail corridor... Broadening the current Appalachian Trail corridor, especially along wetlands and streams flowing into Mink Brook, and between Hanover Water Company's southern boundary and the northeast corner of the block (near Trescott Road's sharp turn), would considerably expand current conservation land and protect these resources.... Connecting the northern edge of the Appalachian Trail corridor with the Hanover Water Company's land would increase forest interior and protect wetlands and buffer forest area for the reservoir." (Natural Communities and Rare Plants of Hanover, New Hampshire, 1999) Productive Soils - The proposed AT buffers include two working farms (one on Trescott, one on Two Mile Road at Ruddsboro Road), and many former farms. Recreation - The Appalachian Trail allows quick escape from the bustle of daily life in the Upper Valley to a peaceful and relatively wild landscape dominated by bouldery, second-growth forest, moist fern-filled glades, and occasional wetlands. Connections and Buffers -The proposed buffers will connect the AT with Highway 38 (Class VI road), and with the proposed Etna Walkway near Partridge Road. By means of the Etna Walkway, walkers can reach an extensive network of local trails. (See the description of the Etna Walkway under "Mink Brook Corridor".) Class VI Roads - The trail provides a direct connection with Highway 38, with the Wolfeboro and Cory Roads, and indirectly by means of the Etna Walkway with Etna Highlands Road. Scenic Assets -The AT corridor is one of Hanover's dominant scenic features, protecting forests and ridgelines that can be seen from a large number of locations all over town. The buffers serve to protect much of the scenic value of the AT in Hanover. The working farm on Trescott Road is on the Scenic Locales High Priority Action List because of the pastoral scene and the spectacular view of Mt. Ascutney visible to passersby, both on the roadway and on the AT. The passerby also benefits from the protection the AT buffers provide along Hanover Center Road. Historic Sites and Cultural Landscapes - One proposed parcel has a historic house. Many have remnants of traditional agricultural use. Education -These parcels offer educational opportunity in the Monahan Brook wetlands, working farms, and, on one parcel, active sustainable forestry. THE CONNECTICUT RIVER SHORELINE The Connecticut River is one of the most significant natural, scenic and recreational resources in Hanover. Yet public access to the Connecticut River in the Town of Hanover is limited to a few areas: · the boat landing at the municipal wastewater treatment plant (which is not widely used due to odors associated with this facility and excessive plant growth in the river); (Photos in print edition) The river belongs to everyone. · around the mouth of the Mink Brook, where public action and private donation in an earlier generation led to the acquisition of significant conservation land. (A sewer interceptor line provides, as an added bonus, a popular walking trail from South Main Street to the confluence of Mink Brook and the Connecticut River); · at the Dartmouth boat house and canoe club area north of Ledyard Bridge where swimming off the College's float is possible for the Dartmouth community in the summer, and rental of kayaks and canoes is available to the public; · Wilson's Landing, north of Fullington Farm, which provides public access for boating and fishing; and · walking trails that are in various conditions and states of use along portions of the Connecticut River shoreline. Segments of a shoreline path exist on land already owned by the town, the Pine Park Association, Dartmouth College and private landowners. The choice of location for any new or relocated shoreline path should consider the fragile nature of the riverbank and shoreline. It should also consider the adverse influence that the path may have on wildlife, e.g. providing public access to sensitive bird nesting and breeding sites, beaver lodges, otter denning places, etc. For these reasons, and because in many areas houses are located close to the river, alignments away from the shore may be more realistic choices for a river trail. Connections could be made to the Mink Brook corridor, the Appalachian Trail, Balch Hill (through Storrs Pond, the Ferguson and Rinker Tracts, and the Fulllington Farm Trails), the Slade Brook Corridor, and the Lyme Connection. Views of the wooded ridgelines along the Connecticut River are a memorable part of a trip down the river. Whenever possible, ridgelines such as that of Pinneo Hill, should remain forested to preserve the views from the river. There are a few islands in the Connecticut River within the Town of Hanover. The largest of these, Gilman Island is near the mouth of Mink Brook. A "primitive camp site" is located on it. Protection of all of the islands by easement or purchase would ensure their scenic and recreational future. Open Space Benefits Water Supply - Continued protection of the river from the adverse effects of nonpoint source pollution and development - such as lawn chemicals, untreated storm water, increased impervious area, and industrial discharge- should be an important public priority since the river represents an important potential water supply for the Town of Hanover. Surface Water - The Connecticut River is one of the designated American Heritage Rivers with excellent water quality. Wetlands - There are several areas of riverine and submergent wetlands along the shoreline, where waterfowl are observed and where "nursery" conditions and food are available for many aquatic species. (Photos in print edition) River and wetlands encourage biodiversity. Wildlife Habitat - At various times of the year numerous species of waterfowl are found on the river. Non-game small mammals such as beaver and otter that need continuous access to water abound along the river. Biodiversity - The critical element needed to ensure ecological diversity in our natural communities is water. Where water is present - such as shorelines, floodplains, wetlands, vernal pools, etc. - species are diverse. "Expanding current protected land, and managing for fish and wildlife habitat with conservation easements along riverbanks is a high priority to increase habitat and the likelihood of rare species establishment." (Natural Communities and Rare Plants of Hanover, New Hampshire, 1999) In addition, a particularly special unusal habitat is located in the valley along the Class VI portion of Piper Lane. In order to protect this rich mesic forest valley, the land cover should be undisturbed ridgeline to ridgeline. Productive Soils - The flat lands along the Connecticut River represent some of the most productive agricultural soils in the northeastern U.S. However, in Hanover much of this soil already has been encroached upon. Recreation - The Connecticut River shoreline is potentially a magnificent corridor for walking, bird watching, and Nordic skiing, among other pursuits. The river itself provides unique boating and swimming opportunities. Connections and Buffers - The shoreline of the Connecticut River is a critical buffer to the river and its wildlife. Segments could also serve as a path for people, if trails were established linking the downtown with other open space areas - the Rinker and Ferguson tracts, Storrs Pond, Oak Hill, Balch Hill and the Appalachian Trail, the Tanzi Tract and the Mink Brook Preserve. Class VI Roads - There are no Class VI roads along the river's shoreline or that connect to it. Scenic Assets - The river shoreline features a variety of natural terrain - steep banks, rare floodplain forests (Pine Park), eskers, meandering tributaries, riverine wetlands - that are not found elsewhere in Hanover. Views of the river from Route 10 are important. Historic Sites and Cultural Landscapes - Hanover developed as a town because of its location on the Connecticut River, the growth of Dartmouth College, and the presence of a narrow crossing suitable for a rope ferry. Along tributaries of the river, power was available for mills. Prosperity for early settlers of the Upper Valley was a function of access to water transportation, productive soils and favorable terrain along the floodplains of the Connecticut River. Hanover had them all. Education - Greater public access along the shoreline of the river could provide an outdoor classroom for teaching the importance of environmental protection and open space conservation. KING HILL CONNECTIONS This area extends from the AT corridor north of Ruddsboro Road south to the Lebanon border and east to Moose Mountain West. It links together several existing conserved lands, includes significant headwater tributaries of Mink Brook, and crosses the height of land into the Mascoma River watershed to include the headwaters of Blodgett and Hardy Hill Brooks. The area embraces Hayes Hill, King Hill, and Mt. Tug, which rise 300' to 700' above the surrounding valleys. Although the borders of King Hill Connections touch Etna Village, Blueberry Hill, and the development on Laurel Road, within the area itself there is varied terrain, extensive open field and forests, and few houses. Five historic farmhouses are still in use, as well as two active farms. There is a section of Class VI road, outstanding views from numerous locations, and hillsides that can be seen from miles around. Open Space Benefits Water Supply - All houses in this area of Hanover are supplied from private wells. Blodgett and Hardy Hill Brooks, as tributaries of the Mascoma River, are part of the City of Lebanon's municipal water supply. Surface Water - The main channel of Mink Brook arcs around this area on the east, north, and west. Intermittent and year-round tributaries flow off the hillsides in each of these directions. Some are deeply incised into rock or glacial deposit soils. There are also artificial and natural ponds, beaver ponds, and vernal pools. Wetlands - There are scattered wetlands through the area. Some former wetlands have been dammed and excavated to make farm-style ponds. Wildlife - The pattern of large open fields and large forested tracts, along with plentiful water, make this good general habitat, now threatened by fragmentation due to development. Some land is specifically managed for wildlife. Large animals - moose, bear, deer, turkey, fisher, coyote - are often seen or heard here, as are hawks and owls. (See Recreation below.) Biodiversity - Abundant. Productive Soils - Productive agricultural soils are found along King Road, along Ruddsboro Road north of the intersection with King Road, south of the easternmost portion of Etna Highlands Road, and at the Morton Farm. Recreation - This area offers the opportunity of a second north-south linkage across Hanover from Lyme to Lebanon. An extensive network of trails for summer and winter use already thread through large parts of this terrain. Riders from Dartmouth College's Morton Horse Farm also make use of some of the trails. The area affords excellent accessibility from the three residential districts that abut it, and from the several roadways that border or cross it. From it, hikers can extend their range directly onto Moose Mountain, to the Mink Brook corridor, or the AT, and thus to the Water Company Land, Lord's Hill, Monahan Valley and Slade Brook. These connections also facilitate protected passage for wildlife across the landscape of the town. Connections and Buffers - See Recreation above. Class VI Roads - Two segments of Etna Highlands Road lie in this area. This was part of a coach road in colonial times which crossed Laramie Road and proceeded through the Morton Horse Farm. Scenic Assets - Views abound in the King Road Connection. From Hayes Hill, one can see in every direction, including 35 miles to the Green Mountains in the west. Mt. Ascutney can been seen from the fields crossed by the AT above Ruddsboro Road. Moose Mountain is visible from many locations. The Scenic Locales Report gives priority to the views from the fields adjacent to King Road, from which the Vermont mountains are visible from southwest to north. Historic Sites and Cultural Landscapes - Reflecting former times, old farms, logging roads, and cellar holes are found here. Education - A good sense of the shape of Hanover's landscape, and its most prominent features, can be obtained from several locations in King Hill Connection. Local residents feel a close sense of connection with the larger wildlife which frequent the area. LORD'S HILL Lord's Hill is a very important topographical feature of Hanover's landscape, second only to Moose Mountain in its prominence and visibility. It can be seen from many directions, both from within Hanover and from outlying locations in nearby towns. Its eastern arm provides an important scenic backdrop to the church and community of Hanover Center. Lord's Hill is crescent-shaped, opening to the south. The crescent embraces significant wetlands, a string of beaver ponds, and the source of one branch of Monahan Brook. The center of the horseshoe and the west arm of the ridge are dotted with old houses, homes of more recent vintage, alternating woods and fields, and adjacent farms that are two of the few active remnants of Hanover's former working landscape. A section of historic Wolfeboro Road crosses the lower end of the horseshoe. The ridge itself is wooded, and, with the exception of a couple of houses, completely undeveloped. The hillsides range from moderate to extremely steep and rocky. A network of private paths and old woods roads reveal stunning views from the ridgeline in almost every direction. Wildlife and vegetation are varied and undisturbed. Completely encircled by Dogford and Hanover Center Roads, Lord's Hill is a pivotal location, well-connected to several recreational and forest/wildlife opportunities. Lord's Hill has maintained a natural integrity, in part because there has been little recent logging or development. There are relatively few landowners. Lying close to major commuting roads and just a few miles from downtown Hanover, Lord's Hill is extra-vulnerable to development pressures. However, the landowners from the ridgeline down into and including the horseshoe are few, with a high level of appreciation of the recreational, scenic and other attractive features surrounding them. Long-term protection, either private or public, would offer great benefits for the public as well as for the landowners. (Photo in print edition) Ridgelines like Lords Hill are visible to all from many locations in Hanover. Open Space Benefits Water Supply - There are at least two large farm ponds (fire protection) Surface Water - This area is located at the headwaters of one branch of Monahan Brook south of lower Dogford Road, and east of Elm Road, (which extends into the "horseshoe"). Wetlands - Within the "crescent" of Lord's Hill are significant wetlands, a string of beaver ponds, and the source of an important branch of Mink Brook. Wildlife Habitat - Wildlife is extremely varied and undisturbed. Moose, bear, deer, fox, raccoon, coyote, a rich variety of songbirds, pileated woodpeckers, hawks and owls breed here. Biodiversity - Outstanding. "Steps should...be taken to protect wetland resources in this tract, especially those that flow into Mink Brook. Connecting protected lands to the north (Huntington Hill) and south (Waterworks Land) would create a second substantial north-south corridor (with Moose Mountain) for wildlife habitat and biodiversity protection." (Natural Communities and Rare Plants of Hanover, New Hampshire, 1999) Productive Soils - With the exception of the ridge, the whole area consists of old farmland, with two farms still active. Recreation - There is extensive private use of this area for hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing by the landowners. (Photo in print edition) Grazing sheep keep this historic farmland open. Connections and Buffers - Protected land in this area could become a critical section of an "outer" greenbelt around downtown. Completely encircled by Dogford and Hanover Center Roads, it is a pivotal location, connecting in almost every direction to important recreational lands. The AT lies just to the south, and is easily accessed through Paine or Jones Roads on the west side of lower Dogford Road. Higher up, the Hanover Water Company land (more than 1000 acres) abuts Dogford Road, and to the north of the Water Company is Pinneo Hill Farm. West of the Water Company land is Storrs Pond and Dartmouth lands. Off the northwest corner of Dogford Road, the Class VI road known as Spencer Road goes down to Old Lyme Road and Route 10 adjacent to over 450 acres of protected land. To the northeast, the same protected land abuts a large parcel through which Wardrobe Road (Class VI) passes. To the east it connects to the Third Reservoir, the AT and Monahan Valley and Moose Mt. West. Class VI Roads - A segment of Wolfeboro Road runs through this area. Scenic Assets - There are excellent views from many locations on Lord's Hill, especially from the ridgeline and from the farms on Dogford Road. Lord's Hill meets goals for specific types of locales as listed in the 1998 Scenic Locales report (p. 9): Hilltops and Ridges, Roads, Cultural Features, Natural Features and Open Space. Historic Sites and Cultural Landscapes - Wolfeboro Road and two remaining active farms are located here. Lord's Hill overlooks and provides a backdrop to Hanover Center. It is a dominant feature as seen from other historic locations such as King Road. Education- Lord's Hill provides a microcosm of Hanover's landscape, land uses, and wildlife habitats. It is a real treasure. LYME CONNECTION It would be desirable to provide more connections from Hanover to existing trails in neighboring towns to extend and improve the regional trail system and to make more open space available to Hanover residents. Trail corridors should be multi-purpose - wide enough to provide wildlife with connections to protected open space in adjacent towns, and located, if possible, on lands that protect other natural resources. The Appalachian and Harris trails already connect to trails in Lyme, the Wolfeboro Road (Class VI section is used as a trail) leading to Canaan, and the DOC Mascoma loop runs to Enfield. Another connecting trail is possible to conserved land in Lyme. The Menge land, which abuts Goose Pond Road near Rennie Road, just over the town line in Lyme, was protected, using state matching funds. The conservation easement allows pedestrian access for hunting, fishing, and transitory passive recreational purposes, but not camping. Wardrobe Road, a Class VI road in Hanover, offers easy access northward toward the Menge property. There are three logical variants for making the connection: 1. Follow Wardrobe Road to Rennie Road and walk along Rennie Road to Goose Pond Road on which the Menge property fronts. This route is perfectly adequate but provides no additional protection to natural resources, does not create a protected wildlife corridor, and is not an ideal winter route because users would need to remove skis and snowshoes for the road walk. 2. Follow Wardrobe Road to the intersection with Pingree Brook, then follow Pingree Brook to connect with the Mulherrin/Pingree Brook easement already held by the town. In order to access the Mulherrin easement, crossings over three lots would need to be negotiated. A route through a fourth lot and across Hewes Brook to Goose Pond Road would also need to be negotiated. This route has the advantage of protecting the Pingree Brook corridor, providing connectivity for wildlife between Pingree and Hewes Brook, and possibly protecting agricultural soils and an aquifer area. 3. Follow Wardrobe Road to Rennie Road and across to Goose Pond Road. Follow Goose Pond Road a short distance to the Menge land. Crossing to Goose Pond Road results in a road walk of about the same distance along Goose Pond Road as in #1 above along Rennie Road. This land contains wetlands, agricultural soils and brook frontage that would benefit from protection. Crossing parallel to Rennie Road is an option, but would require more generosity on the landowner's part, or purchase of the lot. Establishing a connection between the protected property in the Slade Brook area and Wardrobe Road should also be considered as part of this project. Other connecting trails and protected corridors could also be considered along Hewes' Brook north to the Goose Pond area in Lyme (could connect from Slade Brook headwater area south of Ferson Road) and Pressey Brook northerly to southeastern Lyme (could connect from Marshall Brook tract and the Town Forest in the eastern part of town). (Photo in print edition) New Hamphire's policy of taxing land at its "current use" value helps keep agriculture in business. Open Space Benefits Water supply -A portion of the aquifer associated with Hewes Brook would be protected if this corridor is conserved. Surface Waters -The primary conservation benefit of this area is to protect Pingree Brook and a small portion of Hewes Brook. Wetlands - The wetland complex between Hewes and Pingree Brooks would benefit from protection of this corridor. Wildlife Habitat - No reports available. Biodiversity - No reports available. Productive Soils - There are relatively small areas of agricultural soils in this area. Recreation -This area offers a great deal of recreation benefit. It connects the Doyle and Menge properties, on which there are already public trails. It follows an existing Class VI road and, by construction of a new trail, could follow the Pingree Brook corridor to another easement held by the town in Mulherrin Farm. Connections and Buffers -This area connects Mulherrin Farm with Goodfellow Road and the Menge conservation land in Lyme. If the Lord's Hill and Slade Brook areas are also added to Hanover's open space system, hikers could go all the way from downtown Hanover up into Lyme and beyond along this route with only two very short segments on pavement. Protection of this corridor also provides a buffer between developed areas off Route 10 and development along Rennie Road. Class VI Roads - Maintaining undeveloped frontage along Wardrobe Road, a Class VI road, would be accomplished by the protection of this area. Scenic Assets, Historic Sites and Cultural Landscapes, Educational - This area does not include any unusual education or scenic resources, and is not listed in the Scenic Locales report. Impressive stonework supports Wardrobe Road, so the area must have an interesting history. MINK BROOK CORRIDOR Encompassing more than 40% of the land area of the town, the Mink Brook watershed is the largest in Hanover. It runs through the heart of town, visible at a large number of locations. Its headwaters rise in small rivulets that tumble off Moose Mountain. Its branches flow along Three Mile, Dogford, Hanover Center, and Ruddsboro Roads, and parallel to King Road. Mink Brook passes through Etna Village, crosses Stevens and Great Hollow Roads, and flows westerly just south of Greensboro Road, passing under Routes 120 and 10 to reach the Connecticut River. By the time it reaches the electric company sub-station at the foot of South Main Street, Mink Brook is greatly widened by the back-up of water from Wilder Dam. In the early days of Hanover, Mink Brook was an important source of water power. Eleazer Wheelock, the first president of Dartmouth College, built one of the first water-powered mills near Buck Road. Etna Village used to be called Mill Village because of the numerous water-powered grain and other mills that operated there. Mink Brook provides important wildlife habitat in Hanover - a sanctuary for a wide variety of flora and fauna, including many aquatic species. The northern reach of Rix Ledges, to the south of Greensboro Road and the brook, is an historic home to peregrine falcons. Mink Brook passes through much historical farmland. A farm in Etna Village has special historical significance as the home of Laura Bridgman, a blind, deaf and mute girl who became a noted educational success story in the nineteenth century. A historical marker has been placed there in her memory. Land in the two Dana properties in the vicinity of the Dana and Ruddsboro Road intersection, and a few stretches between Great Hollow Road and Route 120, are protected. The Bottomless Pit, an exemplary level bog and acidic seepage swamp, is zoned "Nature Preserve". The rest of the upland reaches of Mink Brook are unprotected from development. Further down the brook, the stretch from Route 120 to the Connecticut River is largely protected. The Mink Brook Natural Area, the Tanzi Tract, and the Wheelock Mill Site are owned by the town, but not permanently protected. The newly protected Mink Brook Nature Preserve is owned by the Hanover Conservation Council. The Mink Brook corridor has important potential for hiking, skiing, snowshoeing and other recreation. Land bordering Mink Brook should be protected for the public benefit in a continuous strip along its entire length from Moose Mountain to the Connecticut River. Focus should be placed on protecting a corridor where development is dense, adding some larger parcels of land to maintain open spaces, protecting important wildlife habitat, and connecting with other protected lands. Protection of a continuous corridor through the stream valley would involve at least thirty privately held properties and hundreds of acres of land. The Mink Brook Conservation Area includes the proposed Etna Walkway, described after the open space benefits of Mink Brook. Remains of a dam on Mink Brook behind historic buildings in Etna Village. (Photo in print edition) Open Space Benefits Water Supply - The hydric soils along the brook are important areas for ground water recharge. A stratified drift aquifer identified by the U.S. Geological Survey underlies Mink Brook. Surface Water - Mink Brook and its numerous named and unnamed tributaries comprise the most important watershed in Hanover. It is a "fourth order stream", subject to the provisions of the State Comprehensive Shoreline Protection Act. Wetlands - There are many wetlands along the brook - in its upper reaches on Moose Mountain, south of lower Dogford Road, a reach of about a mile just west of Great Hollow Road, and areas on both sides of Route 10 near the brook's confluence with the Connecticut River. Wildlife Habitat - Much of the area is undeveloped and thus provides undisturbed wildlife habitat. Deer, porcupine, pheasant, grouse, fisher and fox abound in this area, as do songbirds and birds of prey. Bear, moose, and mink are also observed frequently, as are otter occasionally. The westerly reaches of Mink Brook also are important fish habitat. Salmon have been stocked there in recent years. Trout are reported to reproduce in at least three locations. Biodiversity - The area is largely forested with mixed hard and soft woods species, but also contains numerous fields. There is a full complement of woodland plants including ferns and flowering species. The fields abound in wildflowers in the summer. "Fragmentation from development would impact natural features. Expanding protected areas adjacent to the Dana Property would increase protected forestlands and watershed quality of Mink Brook." (Natural Communities and Rare Plants of Hanover, New Hampshire, 1999). This area has not been actively studied for rare species. (See also Mink Brook Nature Preserve Habitat Assessment and Inventory, 1999). Productive Soils - There is a wide range of soil types along Mink Brook. Prime agricultural soils of state and national importance lie along the Ruddsboro, Etna and Greensboro Roads, as well as on the Mink Brook Nature Preserve. Numerous fields are still being hayed and used as pasture. Recreation - The Mink Brook area contains numerous hiking and skiing trails on private and public lands. Much of the area between Route 120 and the Connecticut River is protected and has many developed trails. There are also trails on private lands along the upper reaches of Mink Brook on Moose Mountain. The lower reaches are within easy walking distance of Hanover's most populous neighborhoods. Connections and Buffers - Protection of Mink Brook along its complete length would establish a greenbelt and trail running from the Connecticut River to Moose Mountain. Mink Brook passes through Etna Village, comes within sight of the AT, and leads up towards the trail network on Moose Mountain. The Etna Walkway could also provide connections to trails in other areas. Class VI Roads - There are no Class VI roads in the proposed Mink Brook Corridor. Scenic Assets - The Mink Brook Corridor was cited in the High Priority List of the Scenic Locales report. Specific sites within the corridor that are particularly striking include farms on Two Mile Road and Greensboro Road, and waterfalls along Ruddsboro Road. Historic Sites and Cultural Landscapes - There are many historic farm sites and buildings in the Mink Brook corridor. Remains of several dams are visible in Etna Village and elsewhere. In the 1800's, these dams powered mills for grinding wheat, millet, corn, etc. for the farming community of Hanover. Only the Wheelock Mill dam site near Buck Road is protected. Education - The area provides an opportunity for observation of diverse wildlife habitat and landforms. Historic sites and cultural landscapes represent a cross-section of late 18th/early 19th century rural and village life. Winter in Monahan Valley on one of Hanover's oldest farms (Photo in print edition) ETNA WALKWAY In the context of the open space plan, the Etna Walkway is described as one example of the many opportunities in Hanover to create new public assets by linking existing protected lands and trail easements. Recent public discussion has revealed the desirability of safer, more extensive pedestrian routes in and around Etna Village. Residents would like to walk to the store, Post Office, library, and playing fields at Trumbull Hall. The Etna Walkway and its extensions could provide local recreational opportunity as well as immediate connections to these locations on safe routes away from traffic. Much of the walkway is already in place, with connecting pieces to be established. It could be completed at relatively low cost by means of public-access easements, perhaps with state or federal recreation funding. The Route The proposed Etna Walkway lies within the Mink Brook corridor. Its first segment will start at the intersection of Highway 38, Greensboro and Great Hollow Roads. It will cross the bridge on Great Hollow Road, go uphill to the northeast on existing trail easements, cross Stevens Road, and continue on existing easements until it intersects with the lower Class VI portion of Etna Highlands Road. From there it will descend into Etna Village. The round-trip walker may retrace his steps or walk on Etna Road back to the starting point. (Hopefully, a proposed pathway along Mink Brook will eliminate the need to walk on the road.) This route already connects to the Mascoma River watershed and the Blueberry Hill area by existing easements, and crossings or small sections of rural roadways. A wider arc around Etna Village, crossing King Road and descending to Etna Road north of the firehouse, could be established with use of some existing easements and acquisition of others. From there, connections to the town-owned wetland off Woodcock Lane, to Trumbull Hall, and to the Appalachian Trail are possible, if not immediately available. Using the length of Partridge Road as a link, the energetic walker can access Highway 38 at its far end, get on to the AT heading towards Velvet Rocks and downtown Hanover, or return to the starting point. Who Will Use It? The Etna Walkway and its connections offer something for everyone: challenging slopes for those who walk, cross-country ski, or snowshoe the entire route, lengthy gentle segments for others, and the possibility of good access for those of limited ability. It crosses the proposed open space corridor along Mink Brook twice, and connects in every direction to existing trails and trail easements. It circumscribes and provides access to a historic village, traverses presently and formerly active farmland, and offers views of several historic buildings - all by means of a traditional method of relating to and getting around on the landscape (on foot). There are numerous access points, many of which offer parking. Open Space Benefits In addition to the social benefits described above, the Etna Walkway offers the following environmental advantages: Surface Water -The pathway would weave across Mink Brook and through a significant segment of the brook's watershed. Being narrow, it would not directly protect the brook, but would serve indirectly by providing access to otherwise "invisible" portions, and thus reminding users of the presence, extent and importance of the brook. Wetlands - The pathway would provide more access to the town?owned wetland now reached by a path off Woodcock Lane. It might cross part of a field that is a significant flood plain for Mink Brook above Etna Village. Wildlife Habitat - As a pathway this proposal would not provide much significant habitat and be only a marginal wildlife corridor. To the extent that the route of the pathway is broadened and buffered, it would support a greater quantity and variety of wildlife. Productive Soils -Approximately 3/4 of the length of this pathway is on former or current hillside farmland. Connections and Buffers -The walkway could become a greenbelt around Etna Village if trail buffers were added to the walkway corridor. It connects to other parts of Hanover's trail network in several different directions. Scenic Assets - The pathway abuts or crosses a farm that is on the High Priority Action List in the Scenic Locales report. In addition, the pathway, if buffered, could contribute towards meeting several of the general goals for specific types of locales as itemized in the Scenic Locales Report (p. 9): Water Bodies, Roads, Cultural Features, Natural Features and Open Space, Community Gateways and/or Landscape Transitions. Advantages · ready access to anyone living in the immediate area; · safe access to the public amenities of Etna Village without encountering vehicle traffic; · recreational opportunity in and around one of the town's nodes of population; · experience of local natural and historic/cultural assets; · removal of some of the hazardous conflicts between drivers, pedestrians, joggers and Dartmouth athletes in training in the roadways. The advantages of this pathway will only grow as Hanover's population increases. In the context of the open space plan, the Etna Walkway is described as one example of the many opportunities in Hanover to create new public assets by linking existing protected lands and trail easements. Similar possibilities exist in many other areas of town. cent public discussion has revealed the desirability of safer, more extensive pedestrian routes in and around Etna Village to the store, Post Office, library, playing fields at Trumbull Hall. The Etna Walkway could provide local recreational opportunity as well as immediate connections to these location on safe routes away from trMuch of the walkway is already in place, with connecting pieces to be established. It could be completed at relatively low cost by means of public-access easements, perhaps with state or federal recreation funding. The Route The proposed Etna Walkway lies within the Mink Brook corridor. Its first phase is perceived to start at the intersection of Highway 38, Greensboro and Great Hollow Roads. It will cross the bridge on Great Hollow Road, go uphill to the northeast on existing trail easements, cross Stevens Road, and continue on existing easements until it intersects with the lower Class VI portion of Etna Highlands Road. From there it will descend into Etna Village. The round-trip walker may retrace his steps or walk on Etna Road back to the starting point. (Hopefully, a proposed pathway along Mink Brook will eliminate the need to walk on the road.) This route already connects to the Mascoma River watershed and the Blueberry Hill area by existing easements, and crossings or small sections of rural roadways. A wider arc around Etna Village, crossing King Road and descending to Etna Road north of the firehouse, could be established with use of some existing easements and acquisition of others. From there, connections to the town-owned wetland off Woodcock Lane, to Trumbull Hall, and to the Appalachian Trail are possible, if not immediately available. Using the length of Partridge Road as a link, the energetic walker can access Highway 38 at its far end, get on to the AT heading towards Velvet Rocks and downtown Hanover, or return to the starting point. Who Will Use It? The Etna Walkway and its connections offer something for everyone: challenging slopes for those who walk, cross-country ski, or snowshoe the entire route, lengthy gentle segments for others, and the possibility of good access for those of limited ability (a significant consideration if applying for federal funding). It crosses the proposed open space corridor along Mink Brook twice, and connects in every direction to existing trails and trail easements. It circumscribes and provides access to a historic village, traverses presently and formerly active farmland, and offers views of several historic buildings - all by means of a traditional method of relating to and getting around on the landscape (on foot). There are numerous access points, many of which offer parking. Open Space Benefits In addition to the social benefits described above, the Etna Walkway offers the following environmental advantages: Surface Water - The pathway would weave across Mink Brook and through a significant segment of the brook's watershed. Being narrow, it would not directly protect the brook, but would serve indirectly by providing access to otherwise "invisible" portions, and thus reminding users of the presence, extent and importance of the brook. Wetlands - The pathway would provide more access to the town-owned wetland now reached by a path off Woodcock Lane. It might cross part of a field that is a significant flood plain for Mink Brook above Etna Village. Wildlife Habitat - As a pathway this proposal would not provide much significant habitat and be only a marginal wildlife corridor. To the extent that the route of the pathway is broadened and buffered, it would support a greater quantity and variety of wildlife. Productive Soils - Approximately 3/4 of the length of this pathway is on former or current farmland. The upland farms probably don't offer much soil quality (having previously been dairy farms with grazing land). One active farm, adjacent to Mink Brook, which at least in part is flooded once or twice a year, probably encompasses adequate or better soil. Connections and Buffers - The walkway could become a greenbelt around Etna Village if trail buffers were added to the walkway corridor. Scenic Assets - The pathway abuts or crosses a farm that is on the High Priority Action List in the Scenic Locales report. In addition, the pathway, if buffered, could contribute towards meeting several of the general goals for specific types of locales as itemized in the Scenic Locales Report (p. 9): Water Bodies, Roads, Cultural Features, Natural Features and Open Space, community Gateways and/or Landscape Transitions. Advantages · ready access to anyone living in the immediate area; · safe access to the public amenities of Etna Village without experiencing the hazards of Etna Road traffic; · recreational opportunity in and around one of the town's nodes of population; · experience of local natural and historic/cultural assets; · removal of some of the hazard to drivers of pedestrians, joggers and Dartmouth athletes in training in the roadways. The advantages of this pathway will only grow as Hanover's population increases. MONAHAN VALLEY The proposed protected land in the watershed of Monahan Brook lies at the geographical center of Hanover, bounded on the west and east by Two and Three Mile Roads and to the North and South by Slade Brook and the former route of the Appalachian Trail. The area drains into the Hanover Center Reservoir. It is largely forested. However, there are several large fields amounting to more than 100 acres. This area provides an important greenbelt and wildlife corridor between Slade Brook and the Appalachian Trail. The fields provide scenic views to the Moose Mountain range to the east and to Mount Ascutney and the Killington range to the south and southwest. This area contains two of the oldest farms in Hanover, one of which is still in operation. The area is largely undeveloped, except along the Wolfeboro Road. There have been pressures in the past to open up the Class VI section of Wolfeboro Road for development and for commuter access from Three Mile Road. The Class VI Cory Road also has experienced some development pressure. Some of the large open fields are protected by covenants. Permanent protection would provide great benefits for the public. Although not in the Monahan Valley proper, Hanover Center is an adjacent rural village area, comprised of a number of residences, a green and beautiful church. The residences are spaced so that there are outstanding views to Lord's Hill and Moose Mountain, with a complementary foreground of fields and wooded areas of Monahan Valley. Open Space Benefits Water Supply - The hydric soils are important areas for ground water recharge for well water systems. The streams that discharge into the Hanover Center Reservoir provide water for the town public supply. Surface Water - Monahan and Slade Brooks traverse the area, as well as numerous other unnamed seasonal brooks. Wetlands - There are substantial wetlands in the Wolfeboro Road area along brooks flowing towards the Hanover Center Reservoir. Hydric soils are common in the more gently sloping areas. Wildlife Habitat - This is an important wildlife habitat area. Much of it is undeveloped and thus undisturbed. Two wetlands contain small natural ponds. There is also a manmade pond which attracts migratory birds and numerous wildlife. Deer, porcupine, grouse, fisher and fox abound in this area, as do birds of prey. Bear and moose are also frequently observed. A recent observation of a large grey owl feeding on a turkey carcass was reported. Class VI (unmaintained) roads provide important links in Hanover's trail network. (Photo in print edition) Biodiversity - The area is largely forested with mixed hard and soft woods species, but also contains more than 100 acres of fields. There is a full complement of woodland plants, including ferns and flowering species. The fields abound in wildflowers in the summer. This area has not been actively studied for rare species. Productive Soils - The soils are shallow and somewhat poorly drained over much of the area. Numerous rock outcrops are visible in open and wooded areas. Prime agricultural soils lie along both sides of the Wolfeboro Road. These fields were being farmed for hay and corn crops until the 1960s. Some haying activity continues, however some open fields are becoming overgrown. Recreation - The Monahan Valley area contains numerous hiking and skiing trails on private and public lands. Trails allow foot travel throughout the area. Wolfeboro and Cory Roads are also popular for foot travel, mountain biking and horseback riding. The area attracts numerous local hunters. Connections and Buffers - Protection of both the Slade Brook and the Monahan Valley areas would establish a greenbelt running northwesterly from the intersection of the Appalachian Trail with Cory Road to the Connecticut River. This would complete a greenbelt running from the Connecticut River in Hanover to Hanover Center via the Appalachian Trail and back to the Connecticut River again. The Monahan Valley corridor provides an important connector for wildlife between the Appalachian Trail and the proposed Slade Brook corridor. Class VI Roads - Cory Road, with one of the best footpaths of all Class VI roads in town, runs through this area. It is open for travel along its complete length of about one mile. There is also a half-mile section of the Wolfeboro Road that remains a Class VI road. Both of these roads have had development threats in recent years. Scenic Assets -Spectacular views of distant mountains in Vermont are visible from the fields along the Cory and Wolfeboro Roads as well as from a height of privately held land adjacent to the Appalachian Trail. Beautiful views of the Moose Mountain range are also visible from fields off the Wolfeboro Road. Historic Sites and Cultural Landscapes - The cellar hole of the Cory farm residence can be found near where Monahan Brook crosses the Cory Road. There is also an historic stone bridge. Much of the area was open farmland and sheep pasture in the 1800's. One of the earliest farms in this area of Hanover is still active. The land was originally deeded to the Rev. Eden Boroughs, who, in the 1770's, became the first minister in Hanover Center. Education - The area provides ample opportunity for observation of diverse wildlife habitat and landforms. MOOSE MOUNTAIN EAST Moose Mountain East (MME) is the entire area of Hanover to the east of Moose Mountain. Within 1/2 hour drive of downtown and easily accessed by scenic dirt roads, the area includes Town Forest, a designated natural preserve, old farms, recreation areas, seasonal homes, and a portion of Goose Pond. The Appalachian Trail is nearby. MME is an extraordinarily rich reservoir of resources, including an important watershed feeding the Mascoma River, and extensive forests which provide wildlife habitat and offer opportunities for renewal of ecological resources (air and water) and the human spirit. The character of the land is basically wilderness and recreational, with some active forestry. Thus far, remoteness and zoning appear to have effectively preserved the character of the area, but population growth is beginning to be felt. Year-round homes are being built on contiguous land in neighboring towns, and more seasonal homes are springing up along some dirt roads in Hanover. They do not impact the environment tremendously at this time, but they are the forerunner of further growth that will have increasing effect. This area is on the southwest edge of a huge forested block that includes large portions of Orford, Wentworth, Lyme, Dorchester, Canaan, Groton and Orange. Goose Pond Road, not only sparsely developed, lies between MME and the huge wild block of land. More intense development would create a barrier to wildlife. To the east and south MME is bordered by development in neighboring towns, some of which have no zoning. As one drives from Canaan or Lebanon, one notices a startling contrast in the use of land. Intense use creates the disharmony of small lots in a broken landscape, multiple motorized machines and networking roads. Small lots with multiple buildings give way at the Hanover line to large tracts of forested land. If no attempts are made to preserve it, the land in MME may also be broken into small lots for seasonal dwellings. The character of the area may change until it no longer provides a natural respite for either people or animals. The threat to this area is the creeping development of camps and seasonal dwellings. Current zoning allows seasonal homes with no limit to their size or impact. As there become more and more of them, they will fragment the quiet expanse of MME. Pressure from neighboring towns can already be felt as people drive motorized recreational vehicles through the area. Foresight and action at this time will benefit the whole town. If the area is protected soon, it will be a permanent refuge for use by residents to revive spirit and soul, and to remember an important reason why so many choose to live here. Just as importantly, it will be a permanent, outstanding wildlife habitat, enhancing the biodiversity and quality of life for a large variety of indigenous species. Moose Mountain East possesses abundant water resources. (Photo in print edition) Open Space Benefits Water Supply - Committee Meadow Brook supplies water to the Enfield Water Supply reservoir, which is just over the Hanover border. Surface Water - This area is generously supplied with water from springs, wetlands and surface runoff flowing into brooks (Tunis, Pressey, Scales, Lovejoy, Straw, or Committee Meadow) or directly into Goose Pond, and then into Lake Mascoma, the Mascoma River and eventually into the Connecticut River. Wetlands - There are major wetlands in this area, including those within the Marshall/Pressey Brook area, and many smaller wetlands along the brooks. Some are created by beavers. These wetlands provide year-round habitat for a rich variety of flora and fauna. Wildlife Habitat - MME is part of a forested block more than 25,000 acres in size, portions of which are located in seven abutting or nearby towns. It is a haven for wildlife. The slopes of Moose Mountain are important winter habitat for moose. The Hanover segment of the block is intensively hunted for moose, deer, turkey and grouse. Coyote, bear, fox, porcupine and lynx have been spotted. A variety of birds reside here, and a lush variety of plants from ferns and mushrooms to towering trees of many species. The standing forests support a complex ecosystem of wildlife. Edge conditions and open land is provided by former farmland whose fields are still mowed. Biodiversity - Protection efforts should focus on the wetland complex for its wildlife habitat value, and on buffering forestlands. (Natural Communities and Rare Plants of Hanover, New Hampshire, 1999) Productive Soils - Former farms dot the area, but no active farming occurs today. Recreation - Fishing and hunting are practiced in the area. ATV traffic on smaller trails and Class VI roads is active, and snowmobiles are driven over the open landscape in the winter. Slight slopes and large land expanses make this a prime area for development of a network of cross-country ski trails. Birdwatching and hiking are popular, as is boating on Goose Pond, and kayaking on Marshall Brook. No formal parking is available. Connections and Buffers - This area is more than a greenbelt. It is a "green robe" around the outskirts of Hanover. Its most significant connection is with the forest block in the nearby towns (see "Wildlife Habitat"). This land is also close to and connectable with the Appalachian Trail as it runs along the ridgeline of Moose Mountain. A protected corridor could be established from the AT down along Lovejoy Brook and into Enfield, providing significant wildlife protection as well as recreational opportunity. Class VI Roads - Class VI portions of Wolfeboro Road and Goss Road Extension extend from MME up over the ridge of the mountain. Pasture Road, Stewart Land, Old Nathan Merrill Road, Mountain Road Extension, and North Tunis Road are Class VI roads in MME. Scenic Assets - The South Peak of Moose Mountain provides an impressive view. The viewshed should be protected. Goose Pond is listed on the High Priority Action List in the Scenic Locales report, as is Moose Mountain. It is refreshing to visit this part of Hanover and relax into its quiet wilderness and beauty. Historic Sites and Cultural Landscapes - The Bill farm, which dates from the 1950's, is still being brush-hogged by the family, but the land is not being tilled. Other generational farms are located here, but are not being worked except, in some cases, for maple sugaring. Old cemeteries are still preserved. Education - MME is a virtual classroom for ecological studies - wildlife, wildflower identification, ecological sub-system demonstration, forest successional stages, bird identification, and geological formations. MOOSE MOUNTAIN WEST Moose Mountain West (MMW) extends from Hanover's northern border with Lyme to its southern border with Enfield, and from the mountain's ridgetop west to a line roughly parallel to Two Mile, Thompson, Three Mile, Old Dana and Ruddsboro Roads, and set back from those roads by a 500-foot strip zoned Rural Residential. The entire MMW area is within Hanover's Forest and Recreation Zone ("F" zone). The Moose Mountain ridge is the most prominent feature of the Hanover landscape, visible from dozens of locations from within the town and from locations in other municipalities. It provides a stunning backdrop to historic Hanover Center. From the mountain's heights, the Green Mountains are clearly visible to the west, as is Mt. Cardigan to the east. Topographically, MMW divides into three distinct sections. The northern third is the widest (more than a mile) and highest. Its watercourses drain generally northwest into Hewes Brook. The western flanks of the mountain are steep, rugged, and covered with mixed hardwoods and evergreens. Large mammals find good habitat here, as do a wide variety of smaller animals. There are numerous hiking and cross-country ski trails. Pre-eminent is the Appalachian Trail (AT), which ascends the west slope to South Peak, and from there northward along the ridgeline to North Peak and on into Lyme. The central third of MMW is somewhat lower in elevation, narrower, and more varied. Headwater streams for Mink Brook rise here. Cleared fields extend from the ridgeline down to the roadway in the vicinity of Moose Mountain Lodge Road, providing cross-country skiing opportunities as well as edge conditions for wildlife that are not present elsewhere on the mountain. The lodge and the nearby radio tower are the only structures visible on the mountain slopes. A southbound hiking trail leads from its junction with the AT past the lodge and on down the spine of the mountain into Enfield. Varied terrain on the west slopes of Moose Mountain (Photo in print edition) The southern third of MMW tapers to a width of about 2000 feet , rising with steep, bouldered slopes from road to ridgeline. More than a dozen small feeder streams flow straight down into Mink Brook. There has been some recent logging, but otherwise the area is undisturbed except for occasional hunters and hikers. The recreation and wildlife habitat/travel corridor value of MMW is greatly enhanced, through its connection with Moose Mountain East. MMW is the southwest frontier of an expanse of forested lands that reach to the While Mountains almost unbroken except for I-93. MMW lies in the "F" zone, in which landowners may build "seasonal dwellings" of any size on 10-acre lots. A single Town Meeting vote could reduce or enlarge the lot size, or create more lenient (or more restrictive) conditions of development. While one seasonal dwelling may not have much impact, the cumulative impact of many seasonal dwellings will have a negative effect on the wildlife habitat and wild character of the area. The 20-acre ridgetop property on which the TV tower is located is specially vulnerable because of the possibility of more or higher towers. Open Space Benefits Water Supply - The southern part of MMW lies in the watershed of Mink Brook and the northern part in the watershed of Hewes Brook. The area does not directly affect public water supplies as currently structured in Hanover, even though the Third Hanover Reservoir is nearby. No aquifers have been identified. Surface Water - Mink Brook, the most important tributary to the Connecticut in Hanover, originates in and flows through MMW. After it leaves this area, it becomes a "fourth order stream", subject to the provisions of the Comprehensive Shoreline Protection Act. Wetlands - Most of this area is characterized by well-drained sloping lands. There are scattered small areas noted on the Wetlands Map and the Hydric Soils Map. Wildlife Habitat - According to Ted Levin, a local naturalist, MMW harbors deer, bear and occasionally moose, as well as predators such as fishers, bobcats and coyotes. Migratory birds favoring heavily forested areas, such as warblers, are common. Biodiversity - This area provides important habitat for some of New Hampshire's larger wildlife species, including bear, moose, bobcat, ravens, and other species.... Connecting or expanding current conservation lands would be a good strategy.... Protection efforts should also focus on mountain stream corridors." (Natural Communities and Rare Plants of Hanover, New Hampshire, 1999) Productive Soils - The area has been slowly reverting to forest from pastureland over the past sixty years. Overall, soil quality is mixed, with pockets of agricultural soil of national or statewide significance along Three Mile Road, Dana Road, and Ruddsboro Road. Recreation - The area represents a major resource for local as well as Appalachian Trail hikers, snow-shoers and cross-country skiers. In addition to the Appalachian Trail, there are numerous trails on private lands. A Class VI section of Wolfeboro Road that crosses the mountain appears to attract ATVs. Connections and Buffers - MMW provides a topographic buffer to development and is also important as a buffer to the Appalachian Trail. It shares a boundary over its entire length with Moose Mountain East. To the north, MMW abuts Lyme's "Mountain and Forest District", zoned for 50 acre minimum lot size, representing de facto open space as long as the current Zoning Ordinance remains in force. To the west, MMW abuts the Mink Brook corridor and Monahan Valley. In a southerly direction the area neighbors a fairly heavily built-up section of Enfield. Class VI Roads - More than three miles of Class VI roads pass through this area. A segment of Wolfeboro Road connecting the AT with Three Mile Road is the major Class VI road. Although Pasture Road, connecting Goss Road and Moose Mountain Lodge Road, is well defined near its origin in the Moose Mountain East area, it becomes hard to follow as it climbs the Moose Mountain ridge on its way to Moose Mountain West. Goss Road Extension takes another route over the mountain to connect with Moose Mountain Lodge Road. A fourth, short Class VI road climbs Plummer Hill in the northwest corner of this conservation area. Scenic Assets - The ridge of Moose Mountain and Moose Mountain Lodge Road are cited as major scenic resources in the Scenic Locales report. The South Peak of Moose Mountain (accessed from the Appalachian Trail) has a splendid eastward vista towards Cardigan Mountain through a cleared "window" in danger of becoming overgrown. The North Peak, also along the AT, provides potential westward views that could be exploited by judicious clearing. Another minor outcrop north of the North Peak offers good views to the west and southwest. Moose Mountain Lodge has a superb westward view. Historic Sites and Cultural Landscapes - The area was and remains thinly populated, with little history of note. Like many forested areas in Hanover, it was heavily logged in the 1930s. Most of the area was pasture and hay fields one hundred and fifty years ago. Some haying and pasturing continues. Education - MMW is full of opportunities to teach about ecology in general, wildlife, forest succession, local agricultural history, etc. SLADE BROOK Slade Brook has been a relatively unknown area of Hanover that in recent years has gotten more attention as the population of rural Hanover has grown. In the early days of the Hanover settlement, the brook was the site of a slate quarry for tombstones (and perhaps other uses). In the early 1800's a family named Slade settled near Slate Brook on the Hanover Center Road. Some think that mapmakers got confused, and changed the name from Slate Brook to Slade Brook sometime thereafter. Slade Brook rises in the wetlands and steep slopes between Two and Three Mile Roads in Hanover Center. The Brook passes westerly under Two Mile Road and then on down through forested land, under Lyme and River Roads to the Connecticut River. For most of its length it passes through undeveloped land. Some of the land adjacent to Slade Brook (west of Two Mile road) has been protected, perhaps 30 to 40% of its length. One parcel owned by James Kennedy, and a very large parcel owned by Samuel and Joanna Doyle, have conservation easements held by the New Hampshire Fish and Game Commission. Just below the Doyle's property, Slade Brook flows through an old narrow slate quarry (on privately held land), causing spectacular waterfalls during high water periods. There is also a beautiful waterfall on the west side of Lyme Road. The Slade Brook corridor is largely undeveloped and composed of large tracts of land. It is arguably the most important greenbelt and wildlife habitat in northern Hanover because it connects the Moose Mountain area with the Connecticut River. Open Space Benefits Water Supply - The upper reaches of Slade Brook in and east of the Kennedy property contain large areas of hydric soils, and thus are important areas for ground water recharge. (Photo in print edition) Much of the length of Slade Brook is protected by conservation easements held by the New Hampshire Fish and Game Commission. Surface Water - Slade Brook flows westerly from Hanover Center to the Connecticut River, falling steeply about 700 feet in approximately 2 miles. (In contrast, the Connecticut River falls only about 400 feet in the 200-mile distance between Hanover and Long Island Sound.) Slade Brook's origins are between Two and Three Mile Roads in a forested area marked by wetlands, beaver ponds and sharply incised streambeds. Wetlands - There are three major wetlands along the length of Slade brook. The uppermost area straddles Three Mile Road and forms the source of Slade Brook. Another large wetland (located east of Two Mile Road) contains the remains of four beaver ponds. The dams have been breached, but they are still in place, as is a large beaver lodge. The third area lies west of Two Mile Road on the Kennedy property. A pond has been built in part of this wetland. Wildlife Habitat - Most of the area along Slade Brook is undeveloped, providing undisturbed wildlife habitat. From Two Mile Road down to the vicinity of Old Lyme Road, the Slade Brook area is a major deer winter habitat area. The wetlands between Two and Three Mile Roads have long had beaver dams and beaver. Deer, porcupine, pheasant, grouse, fisher and fox abound in this area, as do birds of prey. Bear and moose are also frequently observed. Biodiversity - The area is largely forested with mixed hard and soft woods species. There is a full complement of woodland plants including ferns and flowering species. (Natural Communities and Rare Plants of Hanover, New Hampshire, 1999) Productive Soils - In the upper reaches of Slade Brook the soils are shallow and poorly drained. Prime agricultural soils lie just to the east of Two Mile Road. The area west of Two Mile Road is steeply sloping, the soils are deeper, and the brook is sharply incised. Recreation - Nearly the entire length of the corridor contains numerous hiking and skiing trails on private land. The trails on the Doyle and Kennedy properties are permanently open to the public. All of the trails are maintained by residents of the Slade Brook area. Connections and Buffers - Protection of Slade Brook and the Hanover Center areas would establish a greenbelt running northwesterly from the intersection of the Appalachian Trail with the Cory Road to the Connecticut River. This would complete a greenbelt running from the Connecticut River in Hanover to Hanover Center via the Appalachian Trail and back to the Connecticut River again, including the Monahan Valley area and the former route of the Appalachian Trail near the Hanover Center reservoir. Connection would also be made to the Dartmouth Outing Club network and the Appalachian Trail on Moose Mountain to the east. Class VI Roads - Spencer Road runs along the southwesterly boundary of the Slade Brook corridor, connecting Dogford and Old Lyme Roads. This Class VI road is heavily overgrown in its upper reaches, but is open for foot travel along most of its length. Scenic Assets - Spectacular views of distant mountains in Vermont are visible from the fields on the Doyle property. Historic Sites and Cultural Landscapes - Several old cellar holes remain in the Slade Brook area. Much of the area was open farmland and sheep pasture in the 1800's. Slade Brook contains an old slate quarry (now an impressive waterfall during times of high water) just to the west of the Doyle protected lands. Education - The area provides an opportunity for observation of diverse wildlife habitat and landforms. Productive Soils - Soil properties such as depth, permeability, wetness, slope and susceptibility to erosion, define the lands's capability to support development and grow crops, tress or pasture grasses. Prime agricultural soils and those of statewide importance are the town's most productive soils for food production. Similarly, forest soils have been categorized for their ability to grow marketable timber. Preserving the most productive forest and agricultural soils in tracts large enough for economically viable forestry and farming is a necessary component of protecting the town's natural resource base, wildlife habitat and diversity, scenic resources, and rural character. Recreation - Outdoor recreation is highly valued in Hanover in all seasons of the year. It takes many forms - from the solitary enjoyment of a wildflower to a scout group hilltop hike. The benefits range from spiritual replenishment to good health. Lands that offer personal or socially interactive, active or passive recreation, are essential elements of the open space system. Universal access should be provided at a variety of appropriate places where development of such access will not compromise the character of the area. Connections between open spaces, and between trails, are important for people and wildlife. (Photos in print edition) Connection and Buffers - Lands that provide connections between trail segments, or between parcels that allow public access, are valuable to the overall open space system. These connections improve recreational opportunities and provide wildlife with routes to different populations of the same species (important for health of the population), food sources and additional habitat. Some lands provide buffers for trail and recreation corridors or waterways that protect the ecological stability and viability of an already-established park or conservation area. They also provide significant open space buffers between settlements and contribute positively to the open space system. Class VI Roads - Class VI roads are an important recreation resource. Class VI roads are public rights-of-way. They include all discontinued roads subject to gates and bars, or any road that has not been maintained by the town in suitable condition for travel for five successive years or more. Although towns have no duty to maintain them, Class VI roads are full public highways over which the public has a right to pass at its own risk. Class VI roads often provide connections to existing trails, or other Class VI road segments. They can provide important links within the open space system. One goal of the Open Space Priorities Plan is to sustain the scenic and visual character of Hanover. Scenic Assets - Open space resources that are identified by Something for Everyone, the report of Hanover's Scenic Locales Committee (1998), are highly valued by the public and thus should receive special consideration in the prioritizing of open space lands to be conserved. Lands that contribute to the protection of a view should be considered a high priority, as well as the places from which viewing can take place. The natural skyline of the ridges in Hanover is an important visual component of the local landscape. For that reason, natural ridgelines and hilltops are an important element of the open space system. Historic Sites and Cultural Landscapes - Important elements of the open space system are structures of traditional use (for example, stone walls, dams, barns, sugar houses), and/or land that protects and conserves an area of significant local or regional historic interest. Education - If land, due to its natural characteristics and ease of accessibility, provides unique or unusual opportunities for natural or scientific education, it should be protected as a component of the open space system. This bridge, located on Cory Road (a Class VI road), is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. (Photos in print edition) WATER COMPANY LANDS The lands surrounding the three reservoirs in Hanover are approximately 1,250 acres in size. In an act of farsighted planning for the public good in the 1880's, this land was protected from development to ensure a safe water supply for the town and Dartmouth College. Owned and managed by the Hanover Water Works Company as a public water supply and silviculture resource, the property also serves as a major wildlife preserve in the middle of the town. The company's assets are jointly owned by the Town of Hanover (49%) and Dartmouth College (51%). The water company land abuts the Appalachian Trail corridor as well as Oak Hill, the public recreation property owned by Dartmouth College. The water company property was an active recreation area for residents until the late 1970's, when it was closed to public access to prevent contamination of the municipal water supply. With changing technologies and a greater regulatory emphasis on developing groundwater for public supply instead of open reservoirs, it is possible that the water company lands will not be needed in the future. The Town of Hanover should actively formulate a long-range plan to purchase the land around the reservoirs and protect it from development. The prospect of a multiple-use, 1000+ acre park/wilderness/recreation area on the outskirts of downtown is truly stunning - a gem that could be matched by few other communities. Here, at the start of the 21st century we have the opportunity to show the same farsighted planning for the public good that our predecessors did in the 1880's. Hanover's water system survives as one of New Hampshire's few water systems that still utilizes unfiltered surface water. It does so under a periodically reviewed exception to both state and federal regulations. Should this exception lapse, Hanover would have to establish a filtration system, shift to a groundwater source, or both. If a groundwater source were chosen, the rush to develop the water company land could be immediate and intense. It is important to note the high priority of retaining this land as a conserved resource for the community, and, to take action to conserve it. The example of Central Park in New York City comes to mind as an object lesson. As New York City's nineteenth century planners did, we need to anticipate the conservation needs of the future, and take decisive action. Open Space Benefits Water Supply - The three reservoirs, containing about 500 million gallons of water at normal level, constitute the entire public water supply of Hanover. In general, unmanaged or sustainably managed forestland tends to be the most protective land use in terms of water quality. Since the town and Dartmouth College currently rely on unfiltered surface water for their public water supply, the cumulative impacts of land clearing, road construction, and residential development threaten the quality of our community's water resources. Surface Water - Situated on two separate tracts totaling about 1,250 acres, the three reservoirs themselves cover approximately 110 acres. Wetlands - Two small areas, totaling perhaps 10 acres within the protected watersheds, are designated wetlands. In addition, there are about 50 acres of hydric soils as designated by the USDA Grafton County Soil Survey. Wildlife Habitat - Although fenced to keep people out, the area provides very attractive habitat to birds and animals, who thrive because of the undisturbed character of the area. Biodiversity - Threats to this [area] include fragmentation from residential development and inappropriate timber harvesting...Biodiversity should be encouraged as a management goal in at least some of the forest in this [area]. (Natural Communities and Rare Plants of Hanover, New Hampshire, 1999) Productive Soils - Approximately half of the 1,250 acres is designated as federally recognized prime agricultural land by the USDA Grafton County Soil Survey of 1982. Recreation - Although recreation is currently banned, the potential for outdoor activities is enormous if the watershed is returned to public use. Boating, swimming, hiking, camping, cross-country skiing and snow-shoeing could easily be accommodated. The size of the area guarantees that a great variety of recreation facilities could be provided, ranging from very public and easily accessible to relatively remote. Connections and Buffers - The property shares boundaries with the Appalachian Trail corridor and with the Oak Hill property. Its central location in Hanover guarantees that it would be easy to establish connections to other conservation/recreation areas such as Lord's Hill and the AT. Class VI Roads - More than three miles of Class VI roads pass through the reservoir area, including sections of the Wolfeboro, Knapp and Paine Roads. Scenic Assets - The area features a variety of landscape features, including open water, shorelines, wetlands, and varied woodland. The water company lands are included in the Scenic Locales High Priority Action List. Historic Sites and Cultural Landscapes - Wolfeboro Road is one of the most historic Class VI roads in Hanover, having been built to carry the Governor of New Hampshire to the first graduation exercise at Dartmouth College. Education - The area could be used for ecological studies at all levels. It is easily accessible from the Ray School and relatively densely populated residential neighborhoods. A table summarizing the degree to which each of the conservation/recreation action areas fulfills the open space benefits criteria follows. Hanover's forests and fields, plentiful water and varied topography provide excellent wildlife habitat. Meadow along Greensboro Road (Photo in print edition) Moose on Moose Mountain (Photo in print edition)
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