The Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests (Forest Society) announced the establishment of its 200th forest conservation area, the Bean Forest in Farmington.

Located on Meeting House Hill Road in Farmington, the 280-acre Bean Forest was donated to the Forest Society through a bequest by longtime member, Dorothy (Dottie) Bean. In accordance with her wishes, the historic house, barns, and 16 acres were subdivided and sold to a private buyer. The remaining 280 acres will be forever protected as the Forest Society’s 200th property, the Bean Forest. The property contains both forests and fields, with scenic views of Chesley Mountain to the west and the Moose Mountains to the north.

In keeping with Dottie’s wishes, the proceeds of the sale of the historic homestead and barns has funded an endowment, the income from which will permanently support stewardship activities at the Bean Forest, including trail maintenance, land management, and payment of taxes.

“Dottie Bean was a dear friend to the Forest Society. She was always the first to register to attend our Annual Meetings, and she had a very clear vision for the land she dearly loved,” states Jack Savage, president of the Forest Society. “The Bean Forest is a certified Tree Farm, and we look forward to continuing its sustainable management, while managing wildlife habitat, and the popular hiking trails that Dottie enjoyed walking and sharing with others. This is a fitting property to celebrate as our 200th conserved forest, as it embodies so many of the qualities the Forest Society champions across the state.”

To commemorate the milestone of protecting 200 forests, now encompassing nearly 67,000 acres, the Forest Society will host a celebration and walk on Saturday, July 13, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Bean Forest on Meetinghouse Hill Road in Farmington. This event is free and open to the public; however, we kindly request that you register. Look for Forest Society signs to guide parking.

ABOUT THE FOREST SOCIETY
The Forest Society is a private, non-profit land trust and forestry organization established in 1901. The Forest Society owns 200 forest conservation properties constituting nearly 67,000 acres in 105 New Hampshire communities and conservation easements that permanently protect and additional 140,000 acres statewide. Many of these places are open to public access and provide opportunities to connect with nature for more than 500,000 visitors annually. To learn more or join as a member, please visit www.forestsociety.org