Fessenden Woods
 Photo: Chris Kane |
Fessenden Woods –
Conservation and Development Work Together to Protect 26 acres in Weare
While at first glance conservation and development interests may seem at odds, PLC’s recent easement at Fessendoe Woods in Weare represents a good example of how development and conservation can successfully work hand in hand.
Property owner Craig Heafield of Riverside Sand and Gravel negotiated with the Weare Planning Board and Conservation Commission to develop the most appropriate plans for the site. The town determined that a cluster subdivision of fourteen units was most appropriate. A cluster subdivision differs from a traditional subdivision plan in that it reduces allowed lot sizes for a proposed development, thereby “clustering” buildings, roads and other disturbances to existing open space. The clustering provides a benefit to the developer by decreasing the lengths of road needed and the related costs and by adding value to the homes thanks to the open space they abut. For future homeowners access to protected open space in their neighborhood adds to their quality of life and may protect property values in the future.
Craig spoke enthusiastically about the proposed conservation easement; “it not only benefits the community. It benefits me also. I will be able to develop the same number of lots but with half the road length that a more traditional subdivision would require. The value of the units will be enhanced by the conservation easement”. By clustering the units, the town has ensured a single, large, cohesive, conservation area, which offers greater value for people and wildlife alike.
Several watershed towns offer cluster subdivisions as an option for developers. While the intent of clustering, and therefore the specific regulations attached to the option may vary by town, an overall vision seems to be shared by all – encourage the best use of land to meet the needs of all communities, human, natural and built.
The newly conserved land on River Rd. was timbered five or so years ago, and is regenerating with typical hardwoods and softwoods, including red oak, hemlock, red maple, white pine, white oak, black cherry, black birch, and beech. The site also contains numerous American chestnut saplings. Wetlands on the easement area support highbush blueberry and winterberry holly, and a few black gum. Rock outcrop and boulder provide good den habitat for wildlife, and moose sign has recently been observed on the property.
This easement meets many of PLC’s Land Protection Criteria; it will provide a protected link to Army Corps of Engineer flood control land along the Piscataquog River less than half a mile to the west. It will protect possible Blanding’s turtle and eastern hognose snake habitat, both of which been reported in this area, as well as moose, deer and other habitat, it protects spectacular views to the west and finally, offers unique opportunities for nature appreciation and low impact recreation – promising to be a popular visit during foliage season.
|
