An Update on the Nelson Highlands Project
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.
A map showing the Nelson Highlands property (click for a larger view)
The property includes high-elevation vernal pools, red spruce forests, streams, wetlands, and extensive wildlife habitat. Stone walls, cellar holes, and old farm fields offer glimpses into the people who once lived and worked this landscape before it gradually returned to forest. It also encompasses a significant portion of the Lake Nubanusit watershed, and its conservation will help protect the lake’s extraordinary water quality. Without permanent protection, the property could be subdivided and developed. 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.
In late March, the Forest Society determined that enough money had been raised to commit to purchasing the land. A closing date of March 30, 2027, was set. The Harris Center’s share of this effort remains $600,000. With donations and pledges to date, we have an additional $110,000 to raise.
Two parcels immediately to the west and contiguous with the Nelson Highlands land came on the market last spring. The parcels contain 265 acres and are named White Swamp, after a large wetland they contain. 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 on successful completion of the Nelson Highlands Project. Together, these lands will conserve a nearly 1,000-acre hole 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)
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 of 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!
Please support the Harris Center’s effort to protect this land for the benefit of the community and local wildlife by donating below. If you have questions, please contact Eric Masterson by emailing masterson(at) harriscenter (dot) org.
