Nottingcook Forest
In 1997, a local developer presented a proposal to the planning board for the development of numerous land parcels along Hope Lane, Woodhill Hooksett Road, Allen Road, and South Bow Road. During the planning board process, the Bow Conservation Commission engaged with the developer to discuss the potential sale of the land to the Town of Bow. Concerns arose among Conservation Commission members about the impact of large-scale development on town services, a crucial aquifer, and the potential loss of over 900 acres of open space.
Phil Wolfe, the president of the Conservation Commission, and Bob Dawkins from Bow Open Spaces, on behalf of the Town entered negotiations with the developer and successfully reached an agreement. The Town would purchase the property, designating it as a Town Forest managed by the Conservation Commission, thereby preventing the development of more than 200 homes.
Leading up to the town meeting, the Conservation Commission, alongside concerned citizens, initiated a marketing campaign to educate officials and residents about the benefits of maintaining land as open space. Emphasis was placed on long-term financial savings and the significance of the land along Allen Road, which held approximately a one-hundred-year supply of sand and gravel.
In 1998, Warrant Article 8 secured approval from the Town with a two-thirds majority vote to purchase the land, later named Nottingcook Forest. The Town bonded a significant portion of the purchase price, with Land Use Change Tax receipts collected by the Conservation Commission contributing to the bond payments. The bond has since been paid in full.
During the March 2000 town meeting, Article 25 was passed, authorizing the recording of a permanent conservation easement deed on a portion of Nottingcook Forest. The property, described as Town of Bow: Block 2, Lots 43-C, 44, 45, 46, 53-E, 58, 63, 63-A, 63-B, and 73-B, encompasses 629 acres. On May 13, 2008, at the annual town meeting, the Town confirmed the terms of the permanent conservation easement, and later in 2008, the easement deed was officially recorded at the Merrimack County Registry of Deeds.
In 2003, Bob Dawkins and the Bow Rotary Club, with the generous support of the Conservation Commission, Bow Open Spaces, Cobb Hill Construction, and Middleton Building Supply, undertook the construction of hiking trails, signs, and kiosks within Nottingcook Forest. The trails showcase captivating view spots situated on abutting private properties owned by the Sampo, Woodbury, and Dawkins Families. These exclusive viewpoints add to the allure of the trails.
Opened to the public in June 2004, these trails are currently maintained by Bow Open Spaces. The pathways are frequented throughout the year, accommodating various groups including some through guided hikes. Also, the Bow Pioneers maintain a recreational trail within the forest, facilitating activities following the terms of the conservation easement. This collaborative effort ensures that the natural beauty of Nottingcook Forest remains accessible and enjoyed by all.
The Conservation Commission is entrusted with the management of the property, while Bow Open Spaces is responsible for monitoring to ensure compliance with the terms of the conservation easement. We encourage you to explore and enjoy this wonderful forest that we collectively work to maintain for your benefit!
