Phase One Update and COVID Uncertainty - April 10, 2020

Published April 10, 2020

In times of uncertainty, it’s natural for us to want to connect with something constant, and being out in the Franklin-McElheny Preserve is something we can do that still seems normal. There’s no doubt being in nature can help relieve the stress of our current circumstances! As such, we hope you’ve been able to enjoy the optimism of early spring in the forest.

If you’ve visited the Franklin-McElheny Preserve recently, you likely have noticed some of the trees marked with blue paint, along with the boundary trees marked in bright orange. As we have previously communicated, and consistent with the consensus plan endorsed by the Franklin-McElheny Working Group, SELT will initiate phase one of the management to mitigate the damage caused by hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA) this year.

The trees with blue paint have been marked by licensed forester, Charlie Moreno, to be removed when the harvest occurs. While we had originally planned for the work to begin this spring, the harvest will likely occur in the summer or fall months. Until then, SELT staff will continue to monitor for any hemlocks that pose a potential safety risk to our trail users, in the event they need to be removed before the planned harvest because of their compromised health.

The COVID-19 crisis has disrupted many highly anticipated and carefully thought out plans and events, including the in-person tour of the harvest layout that SELT hoped to offer this spring. This tour would provide information about the specifics of the harvest plan, while giving community members an opportunity to visit the property, observe the areas to be treated, and ask questions. 

If possible, we will have this tour in person. However, as the duration of New Hampshire’s stay-at-home order is unknown, we are planning a virtual tour as an alternative. Our goal is to have the virtual tour available to view early this summer, allowing time for questions from the community to be addressed. In a best-case scenario, social distancing measures will have eased by then, and we will be able to continue with the in-person tour as planned; in this instance, the virtual tour would remain available to those who are unable able to join us for the walk.

Lastly, we’re seeing an uptick in outdoor recreation as people look for ways to get outside. While all SELT Reservations continue to be open for visitors, it is imperative we continue adhering to the guidelines set forth by the CDC to ensure we keep ourselves, and our neighbors, safe. As a result, you’ll notice some new signs on SELT lands (including the Preserve) outlining rules for observation during this crisis, which include: keeping a distance of 6 feet between all vehicles, individuals, and pets, and keeping dogs leashed at all times.

SELT is diligently working on preparing the virtual tour, and we will be sure to let you know as soon as it is available. As always, we sincerely appreciate you doing your part to stay safe by practicing responsible recreation. If we work together, we’ll find ourselves on the other side of this uncharted territory healthier and stronger. If at any point you have questions, or if you spot problems at the Preserve, please let SELT know by emailing info@seltnh.org.

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