Town Council Decides Against Conservation Easement on Hooksett Road Properties

The Hooksett Conservation Commission convened on August 11, 2025, to discuss various topics related to local conservation efforts. The meeting began with a review of two specific parcels of land located on Hooksett Road, identified as Lot Map 41, Lot 721101, and Lot Map 25, Lot 7. The commission members assessed the potential for conservation easements on these properties but concluded that they were not contiguous with existing easements and lacked sufficient size to have a significant conservation impact.

After deliberation, a motion was made to notify the town that the commission would not pursue any conservation easement or purchase for these properties. The motion was unanimously approved by the members present.

Following this decision, Jo Carroll provided an update on the Quimby Mountain project. She shared information from Jeff, who reported that the ecological inventory is progressing well, with seven out of eight planned visits completed. These visits took place over several months, with the most recent occurring on August 5. The team has discovered over 500 species during their assessments, including two uncommon plants: cyperus sedge and yellow screw stem. Notably, they also identified a robust population of American chestnut trees, with at least 50 young specimens found, some reaching five inches in diameter and appearing healthy. This species is currently on the state watch list, highlighting the ecological significance of the findings.

The meeting concluded with a focus on the ongoing efforts at Quimby Mountain, emphasizing the importance of continued ecological monitoring and conservation in the area.