Conservation Commission encouraging hikes along trails in Meredith's Hamlin-Eames-Smyth tract

MEREDITH — The Hamlin-Eames-Smyth tract, located off the Chemung Road, was well-marked on a recent day for snowshoers and dogs. The recreational trail offers a moderately strenuous hike with some cleared vistas along the trail and is open to the public.

The total acreage of the tract that is maintained by the Meredith Conservation Commission is nearly 650 acres and trails are color-coded to designate skill level. If you plan to go out on the trails, wear warm and comfortable clothes for weather and backpack in and out your personal items.

Forested land covers nearly 84-percent of the landscape of New Hampshire according to the Resource Conservation & Development Councils. From the forests we get clean water, biodiversity, the logging industry supplying wood and paper products and recreational areas on which we build our community character. The Town of Meredith has designated 16-percent of its land to open space conservation and much of that land is forested. All of these acres are open to the public for seasonal recreational purposes.

The Meredith Conservation Commission was established as an advisory body by state law. It is the only Town body specifically charged with protecting natural resources and provides a focal point within the Town for environmental concerns. It meets on the first Thursday of every month at the Meredith Community Center at 7 p.m.. The public is welcome to attended. Additional information about the work of the committee is available at meredithnh.org.