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The Upper Saco Valley Land Trust (USVLT) and the Pine Hill Community Forest Management Committee (PHCF Committee) held a community forum for the Pine Hill Community Forest Preserve at the Saco River Brewing Taphaus. Multiple presenters spoke about the preserve using their unique perspective, including foresters, trail builders, and educators. USVLT’s Conservation Easement Manager, Linda Comeau, began the presentation with a brief history of the PHCF Committee.

USVLT Board President, Doug Burnell, described the history of Pine Hill Community Forest, using survey maps to show how the land has changed over time through changes in property ownership. He then explained how the project prevented future development and protected this beloved central space for the community. Pine Hill’s Forester, Tim Nolin, then described the history of forest management on the property, challenges with the gypsy moth outbreak, and  possibilities for the future

Conway Conservation Commission member and volunteer trail builder, Rob Adair, discussed the trails and parking area that had been constructed based on a recreation assessment by Recon Trail Design, LLC, such as the Summit Trail that climbs up Pine Hill, a connector trail, and the Ravine Trail. He also talked about potential future trails, proposing plans for a longer walking trail and a climbing access trail. MWV Trails Association Vice-President, Larry Garland, then highlighted the importance of trail continuity and accessibility, which allows people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the outdoors. He explained how the central location of Pine Hill is an opportunity to connect elements of the existing recreational network in the Valley.

Tin Mountain Executive Director, Lori Kinsey, discussed how beneficial a resource Pine Hill Community Forest is for education. Both Tin Mountain and Kennett High School utilize the property as an opportunity to teach students. The Ravine Trail in particular has been a focal point of collaboration between multiple organizations and participation from over 100 Kennett High School students. Construction classes built and installed the signs and kiosks for trail, while art classes created their designs. President of White Mountain’s NEMBA, Jeremiah Beach, then discussed the Community Forest’s significance to mountain biking in the area, using data from Trailforks, a popular mountain bike application.

Kennett High School Teacher, Chris Darling, talked about how incorporating the Community Forest into his curriculum has been monumental in engaging students, particularly through the Bike Tech class. This class is part of Kennett’s outdoor recreation education program, teaching students bicycle mechanics and repair, along with marketing these bikes to the local community. He also discussed how Kennett’s mountain bike team uses the trails at Pine Hill, including the popular 3 mile loop used in their races. Fellow teacher, Darron Laughland, also spoke about the unique hands-on learning opportunities for students in his program. With his outdoor recreation class, students have easy access to practice the skills and tools needed for trail building, repairing and maintaining.

Though the event itself has concluded, USVLT invites anyone interested to share their ideas for the future of the forest and how it can best serve the community. In the 25 years since its founding, USVLT, an accredited member of the Land Trust Alliance, has completed 87 conservation projects, and with its partners preserved more than 12,300 acres of sensitive habitat, working forest, and prime farmland in its 11-town service area in New Hampshire and Maine.