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CONWAY - In 2025, Upper Saco Valley Land Trust (USVLT) completed four major conservation projects, permanently protecting over 750 acres of land in Madison and Conway, New Hampshire and Brownfield, Maine.

“This past year of land conservation wouldn’t have been possible without the support of this amazing community,” says Executive Director Eric White. “These projects—particularly the Chain of Ponds Community Forest—highlight how this land connects us. None of this is possible without all of you: the passionate volunteers, supporters, partners, board members and staff. We’re excited for what 2026 will bring.”

Chain of Ponds Community Forest (Madison, NH). A new community forest now permanently protects 626 acres of forest, ponds and wetlands. The preserve safeguards local groundwater, ensures clean drinking water and provides critical habitat for numerous state and federally threatened species of wildlife, plants, fish, and birds. Planning is underway to protect natural resources, provide accessible recreation, and sustainably manage timber on the land.

Davis Pond (Madison, NH). The Davis Pond Preserve expands the Chain of Ponds Community Forest wildlife corridor by 20 acres. This wetland acts as a natural filter and buffer, protecting nearby Davis Pond—a small lake almost entirely surrounded by development—from harmful runoff while improving regional water quality and strengthening the network of conserved lands in the Mount Washington Valley.

Two Brooks. The Two Brooks conservation agreement permanently protects 52 acres in Conway. Most of this land will be allowed to return to old-growth forest, providing a haven for wildlife and nature, no matter what the future brings.. A portion of the land is maintained as grasslands, one of New Hampshire’s most rapidly disappearing habitats supporting species that depend on open fields.

Shepards River (Brownfield, Maine). USVLT conserved 68 acres along Shepards River, including more than 4,000 feet of river frontage. This protection supports wild brook trout populations, which have been on the decline due to threats such as warming water, reduced streamside cover, degraded streambeds, and blocked access to spawning areas. Preserving the cold-water habitat and unimpeded access to spawning areas will ensure the river ecosystem remains intact and undeveloped.

Jockey Cap Trails (Fryeburg, Maine). In October of 2025, construction was completed on new erosion-resistant trails and a staircase for visitors of Jockey Cap. These improvements offer safer, more accessible routes to the summit and prominent climbing wall, ensuring this landmark can be enjoyed by the public.

Looking ahead to 2026. USVLT is currently working on several conservation agreements and preserves in Bartlett, Chatham, Fryeburg, Madison, Albany, Conway, and Jackson, totaling over 1,600 acres. The organization is also fundraising for its Farmland Protection Fund, in an effort to support local farmland and agriculture. USVLT will be holding at least one public exploration event each month on local conserved lands. Events are free and open to the public, and details can be found at usvlt.org.