Everett McLaughlin: Deadline for acquiring Weeks property in Gilford is Oct. 31

To The Daily Sun,

No Trespassing! Keep Out!

Thankfully, those are NOT the signs you see when visitors and locals decide to hike the trails in the Lakes Region. But they certainly could have been if it weren't for the hard work of local land trusts and others to procure funding and purchase properties and easements from private land owners. They are the main reason you can enjoy the wonderful resources and views of the area as you hike the many trails available.

The Covid-19 pandemic has greatly amplified the need and value of relieving stay-at-home stress and reconnecting people with nature's amazing beauty and the wildlife that call it home. Certainly, that is one good thing that came from this horrible disease. But it also has caused many non-profits to be hurting for finances to continue what they do. The work of the land trusts goes on, but parcels are already under agreement at this point and deadlines for closure are set, so lack of funding could result in a possible loss of protecting and important parcel if the landowner can no longer wait for payment.

The Lakes Region Conservation Trust (LRCT) is in the final extension to purchase 65 acres in Gilford by October 31, with a private trail to a great view and the summit of Gunstock that will likely be extended to other trails in the Belknap Mountain Range if the funding can be raised.

So, to visitors and locals alike, if yo've enjoyed the free access and maintained trails with no "No Trespassing" or "Keep Out" signs, I would ask, "What has that experience been worth to you and your family?" You are the only ones who can determine that. Was it worth $5 for each member of your family? $20? More? Or was it worth nothing. Whatever figure you come up with, if you send it in now, it'll be doubled up to $10,000 from each of two $5,000 grants from the Samuel P. Pardoe Foundation and an anonymous donor. A display and envelopes are also available at the Gilford Town Hall entry.

The need is there, the final deadline is there. Whether you hike or not, keeping our Lakes Region's beauty intact is paramount. Please send whatever you can to the Lakes Region Conservation Trust, P.O. Box 766, Center Harbor, NH 03226. Be sure to note the donation is for the Weeks property in Gilford. Thank you very much!

Everett McLaughlin

Gilford