Save Sewall Woods

New York City has its Central Park.
Boston has its Common.
Washington, D.C. has its Rock Creek Park.

Each of these green spaces in the center of a city is the result of the planning that was done a century ago. And each is a testament to the recognition to city planners that preserving green space is important. While Wolfeboro is not a city, and while there appears to be plenty of green space surrounding the downtown area, the island of green that is represented by Sewall Woods is as import to this lakefront community as is Central Park to New York City.

This area has seen much building and much growth in recent decades. This is an attractive place to live, and modern technology has made it possible for people to reside here and conduct their businesses on a worldwide scope from this small community.

We are losing green space rapidly to residential development. If Sewall Woods is not saved now, the chances are that the 65-acres now up for sale will be subdivided and lost for recreational space.
The Lakes Region Conservation Trust is attempting to raise $945,000 for the purchase of the acreage. The challenge facing the LRCT is that the money must be raised by the end of this year. That's three short months away. LRCT Executive Director Tom Curren points out that this purchase would mark the culmination of more than 10 years of work on the part of many people who have wanted the woods protected. This is the last chance to do so. Sewall Woods is within walking distance of downtown Wolfeboro. There are four parcels of undeveloped forestland totaling about 175 acres, much of it already under the protection of the LRCT. It is home to dozens of species of wildlife, and it provides walking and cross-country ski trails. Countless numbers of people avail themselves of the opportunity to bird-watch, enjoy the encounters with deer, ruffed grouse, the occasional bear, or to hike or ski the trails.

While there may be an "angel" or two out there prepared to make a major donation, it is those users of the trail that Curren believes can save the parcel from development. Curren recognizes that this is a tough time to try to raise funds for the project that is near and dear to his heart and those of other conservationists. There are several other major fund drives under way here, and he says they are all worthy. Still he holds out hope of saving the woods.

Donations (large, it is hoped) and small, earmarked to Sewall Woods, may be sent to Lakes Region Conservation Trust, PO Box 377, Center Harbor, NH 03226.