An Update on the Nelson Highlands Project
A map showing the Nelson Highlands and White Swamp parcels in relation to other conserved lands in the SuperSanctuary.
(Click on the image for a larger view.)
The Nelson Highlands Project seeks to permanently protect a 655-acre parcel of contiguous forest land forming the northerly viewshed of Lake Nubanusit. Situated at the very heart of the SuperSanctuary, this forest — encompassing the highlands of Holt Hill and Rollstone Mountain — has long been a top conservation priority.
The property includes high-elevation vernal pools, red spruce forests, streams, wetlands, and extensive wildlife habitat. Stone walls, cellar holes, and old farm fields also offer glimpses into the lives of the people who once lived and worked on this landscape before it gradually returned to forest. In addition, this land encompasses a significant portion of the Lake Nubanusit watershed, so protecting this property will also help protect the lake’s extraordinary water quality.
Without permanent conservation, the parcel could be subdivided and developed. Once protected, the Forest Society will own the land, keeping it open for careful timber harvesting and passive public recreation, while the Harris Center will hold a conservation easement to ensure these protections remain in place forever.
To give both organizations time to raise funds for this project, a new closing date of March 30, 2027, has been set. The Harris Center’s share of this fundraising effort remains $600,000. With donations and pledges to date, we need to raise an additional $110,000 to meet this goal and protect the land.
A Rare Opportunity
This spring, two parcels immediately west of — and contiguous with — the Nelson Highlands land also came on the market. The parcels total 265 acres and are named White Swamp, after a large wetland they contain. However, the seller’s timeline was much faster than a non-profit like the Harris Center could move.
Luckily, extraordinary friends of the SuperSanctuary stepped in and were able to purchase the lots. These friends are willing to donate the White Swamp parcels to the Harris Center upon successful completion of the Nelson Highlands Project. Together, these lands will protect nearly 1,000 acres in the heart of the SuperSanctuary and raise the percentage of conserved land in the Spoonwood Pond and Lake Nubanusit watershed to 76%!
The Nelson Highlands property includes high-elevation vernal pools, wetlands, and extensive wildlife habitat. (photos © Brett Amy Thelen)
A Grant Delayed
In other news, the USDA Community Forest grant that the Forest Society was relying on for their share of the Nelson Highlands project has been delayed. Over the next month or so, we should have a better sense for the timing of this grant round, and whether the Forest Society will need to raise additional money from private donors to cover this potential shortfall. Stay tuned!
You Can Help
Please support the Harris Center’s effort to protect this land for the benefit of people and wildlife alike by donating below. If you have questions, contact Eric Masterson by emailing masterson(at) harriscenter (dot) org.
Experience the Nelson Highlands Firsthand
Curious about what’s at stake? Join staff from the Harris Center and the Forest Society on Thursday, August 27, 2026 for a special exploration of the Nelson Highlands. After a brief introduction to the conservation project, participants can choose between a paddle on Lake Nubanusit or an off-trail hike through the property to view this remarkable landscape firsthand. Space is limited, and advance registration is required.
