During a recent meeting of the Hooksett Conservation Commission, key updates regarding local conservation efforts were discussed, particularly focusing on the stewardship plans for Clay Pond and Quimby Mountain.

The meeting began with a procedural motion, which was unanimously approved, allowing for the drafting of a letter related to ongoing conservation initiatives. This set a collaborative tone for the discussions that followed.

A significant topic was the update on the Clay Pond stewardship plan. Joe Carroll reported that the Heroux property, encompassing approximately 77 acres, had not been included in the original stewardship plan, which has not been updated in a decade. The Commission has decided to engage Moosewood Ecological, the firm that developed the previous plan, to update the stewardship plan for Clay Pond, including the newly recognized Heroux property. The town administrator approved this single-source selection, indicating a streamlined approach to managing the ecological resources of the area.

In addition to Clay Pond, the Commission received an update on Quimby Mountain. Although no new developments were reported since the last meeting, the Commission reviewed information from Jeff Littleton, who indicated that progress is being made. An invoice related to this project is expected to be presented at the next meeting, ensuring continued oversight and financial management of the conservation efforts.

The meeting also touched on the advancement of the Heads Pond Trail, signaling ongoing efforts to enhance recreational access and environmental stewardship in the region.

Overall, the discussions highlighted the Commission's commitment to updating and maintaining stewardship plans for local natural resources, which is crucial for preserving Hooksett's ecological integrity and promoting community engagement with the environment. As these projects progress, the Commission will continue to monitor developments and provide updates in future meetings.