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Conservation commission reviews trail repairs, signage and $28K grant bid for Lithia Trail
Summary
Members reviewed trail maintenance needs in the Musquash, discussed mapping additions (La Follette Loop), and described a $28,000'$29,000 grant application for the Lithia Trail that would require about a 20% local match; permits and easement permissions were flagged before construction can begin.
The Londonderry Conservation Commission opened its meeting with a review of trail maintenance needs across the Musquash and adjacent town trails, including several downed trees and a handful of informal routes the commission says should be removed or reclassified.
A commission member said volunteers and "trail angels" have been clearing many obstructions and that the group is inventorying signs, tread work and unauthorized paths to determine whether a volunteer work day or re-blazing effort is needed. The commission agreed not to reprint trail maps until any new trails (including the La Follette Loop) are mapped and confirmed.
A member reported submitting a grant application to the state cultural and natural resources agency for a Lithia Trail project budgeted at approximately $28,000'$29,000, with an expected local cost share of roughly 20 percent if awarded. The commission was told selections should be announced by August; if the grant is awarded, tree cutting would be scheduled after Nov. 1 to avoid disturbing bat hibernation and major trail construction would occur after April 1 to protect seasonal resources. Signage for the project is already under contract with a December 31 completion deadline.
Commission participants noted easement constraints: portions of the proposed path fall within areas covered by buffers and easement interests held by the Forest Society, and the project team will need to secure permission under the easement terms before building. The commission emphasized that the proposed footpath will be kept narrow and minimized where buffers apply.
Members said the sign designs will be circulated for review and that the commission will coordinate with the Londonderry Historical Society to incorporate local historical material discovered by volunteers. No final funding decision or permit approvals were taken during the meeting; members said they will reconvene or vote if the grant award requires the commission to provide the local match.
