Belknap Woods has been expanded to nearly 130 acres through an extraordinarily generous gift of an abutting parcel of land by the Mattson family of Center Harbor.
For more than 30 years, Belknap Woods has been a favorite place for outdoor recreation, nature observation and enjoyment for people in Center Harbor and surrounding communities. Owned by the Squam Lakes Association (SLA) with a conservation easement held by the Squam Lakes Conservation Society (SLCS), this forested property provides a network of trails for hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. It also provides an opportunity for carry-in boat access for canoes and kayaks to Dog Cove on Squam Lake.
This beautiful property encompasses designated prime wetlands and critical wildlife habitat, including beaver ponds and heron nesting sites. The permanent conservation of this expansion enhances the role that Belknap Woods plays in protecting water quality.
LRCT is proud to have partnered with SLA, SLCS and the Mattsons on this outstanding project. SLA is now the owner of the former Mattson land, the SLCS conservation easement has been expanded to encompass this land, and LRCT holds a backup interest in the conservation easement on the entirety of Belknap Woods. The organizations look forward to working together in stewarding this key property in the Squam Watershed.
