Merrimack Conservation Commission

09/07/2026

The photos below show a stark contrast. One photo shows a forest floor alive and thriving with shrubs, saplings, and other ground cover. The next shows a section of forest devoid of ground cover.
Which photo shows superior habitat? Which shows more resilient forest? The photo with all the low plant growth! This area of forest provides lots of food for wildlife, tons of coverage for ​protection, and a more diverse population of species, which builds resiliency in the forest overall.
The third picture shows a canopy that better supports the forest floor habitat that we want to grow, as conservationists. This canopy has gaps that allow sunlight to filter down to the forest floor.
Notice how the photo without low growth is so dark. It's canopy is dense, which prevents light to sufficiently pe*****te. One way foresters encourage low growth and new growth is by opening up the canopy in dark areas to allow light to reach the forest floor.
This is the strategy is currently being utilized at the Fields Farm property here in town.

09/06/2026

It's that time of year again! The time of year when Bittersweet stands out as bright green against the darker trees. This is a great time to look up at your bushes and trees and find any vibes you've missed. Remember to cut a "window" (about two feet) out of any vines you find, so they can't climb up themselves in the spring.
You may paint large vine stumps with concentrated herbicide to get at the extensive roots. Just read and follow the label!

09/04/2026

Sklar's trails are in process of being cleared! Ready for fall hikes. 🍁❤️

09/02/2026

For those interested in the silviculture presentation, who couldn't make it in person, the recording is now available on the Merrimack TV Website!

Watch Silviculture: A Healthy Forest is No Accident

09/02/2026

The invasive Species Committee is in need of citizen volunteers for their bioblitz event later this month!
Please see the flyer below for details. A quick email with RSVP would be appreciated for planning purposes, but not required. All volunteers will need to fill out volunteer forms at the time of the event.
Minors are required to have a guardian complete the youth form beforehand, and submit to the Community Development office my email, in person, or mail. The form can be found here: https://www.merrimacknh.gov/get-involved/TownVolunteer

Questions can be directed to [email protected].

08/31/2026

Please note that many hunting seasons begin tomorrow! Please be aware that a number of conservation properties are open to hunting.

08/31/2026

Evergreens drop their needles over time, but if you learn the natural cycle, you can identify when you need to take action.

08/31/2026

08/30/2026

For Horse Hill users, please note that the Watanic Bowmen archery club is having a 3-D Shoot (life-size stationary targets) on Sunday, September 6th.

Trail users might be more comfortable that day avoiding the southwestern area of the parcel near the Watanic parking area off Queens Way.

08/27/2026

Lots of absolutely fascinating information about beavers!

Want to restore the planet’s ecosystems and see your impact in mont...