The Open Lodge: A New Gathering Space on the Horizon

July 16, 2025
An aerial view of the Open Lodge construction in late June 2025 (photo © James Newsom)

An Open Lodge Update

As these images show, we’re starting to see real progress on the Open Lodge & Grounds Accessibility Project. The foundation of the building is in place, and the slab will be completed by late July. Two accessible pathways and ramps are nearly finished, and the lodge’s posts and beams are currently being crafted off-site. Construction has moved more slowly than expected due to inclement weather and a construction pause during our summer camp season, but if all goes as planned, the structure will be raised this October.

Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, the Open Lodge is well on its way to becoming an essential community gathering space that is flexible, beautiful, restorative, fun, and accessible. If you’d like to donate to help us raise the last 10% of funds needed to complete the project, see details below or visit our donate page.

An aerial view of the new accessible ramp leading to the Open Lodge (photo © James Newsom)

New stone steps and an accessible ramp will lead visitors from the main building to the Open Lodge. (photo © James Newsom)

Ramp and foundation construction (photo © James Newsom)

An aerial view of the new ramp and foundation work before the concrete slab was poured (photo © James Newsom)

The addition of a new stone wall and ramp will create a smoother, more accessible route between the Open Lodge and lower lawn, where the frog pond is located. (photo © James Newsom)

A new stone wall and walkway will create a smoother, more accessible route between the Lodge and lawn.
(photos © Michelle Aldredge & James Newsom)

Aerial photos of the Open Lodge foundation being built (photo © James Newsom)

Built in phases, the Lodge foundation includes strategically placed concrete footings to reinforce the beams that will support the roof.
(photos © James Newsom)

The concrete footings of the foundation being poured (photos © Michelle Aldredge)

A closer look at the concrete footings of the foundation being poured (photos © Michelle Aldredge)

Ways to Donate

Help us build this new outdoor gathering space and make our grounds more accessible to all!

Donate by check

Write “Open Lodge” on the memo line, and send to:
Harris Center for Conservation Education
83 King’s Highway
Hancock, NH 03449

Donate online

Visit harriscenter.org/donate and select “Open Lodge” as the program for your donation.

Contact Us

For more information on the Open Lodge & Grounds Revitalization Project, contact Jeremy Wilson at (603) 525-3394 or by email.