Celebration planned for Hartland property
Field day at the new Timotheus Pohl Conservation Area
Following the success of their campaign to buy and conserve a key property in Hartland Three Corners, the Upper Valley Land Trust (UVLT) and the Hartland Conservation Commission will host an afternoon of celebration that features hikes and birdwalks, storytelling, a treasure hunt, pollinator netting, and visits to the biggest black birch tree in the state.
"A field day-type format is perfect for a celebration at this property, because there is so much that people can do and learn here." says Jeanie McIntyre, UVLT's president. The establishment of the 75-acre Timotheus Pohl Conservation Area secures land at the core of a popular Nordic ski trail system, provides new all-season pedestrian access, protects working farmland and sets aside an area for potential development of affordable housing. McIntyre says the June 22 activities will showcase the multiple ways that this property contributes to the well being of people and nature in the village. "From 2pm to 5 pm there will be fun for all ages — natural history, recreation, conversations about farming, games, refreshments. People can come for any or all." she said. A detailed description of activities is posted on UVLT's website: https://uvlt.org/event/summer-celebration/
The establishment of the Timotheus Pohl Conservation Area was supported by a $100,000 Town Meeting appropriation, a $228,000 grant from the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board, and a fundraising campaign led by Hartland residents that raised nearly $300,000 from more than 40 households. The land has frontage on three roads and its meadows offer long views from the Quechee Road and Bischoff Lane. For years, the land has served as the hub of the Town’s vibrant, volunteer-led Nordic ski program, Hartland Winter Trails, with 3.5 kilometers of trails looping through the woods and around the fields and connecting to an extensive network across many other properties. It’s a short walk from the post office, village store, and town services.
“This was easily the most significant conservation project in Hartland in decades,” said Rob Anderegg, the Chair of the Hartland Conservation Commission. McIntyre says the June 22 celebration is a great opportunity for area residents to visit with and thank everyone who made this possible.