As we transition from season to season, so too do the ecosystems we live within.
On Wednesday, June 16, from 9-11:30AM, join Chocorua Lake Conservancy Stewardship Director Lynne Flaccus for a Summer Trail Wander, an early summer exploration of the wooded trails on the CLC’s Mary P. Scott Preserve and TNC’s Bolles Reserve. As forested landscapes transition into summer, we’ll search for plants and animals that make their home on these two properties, and near and around Heron Pond. Birds will be nesting, some frog and toad eggs will have hatched and summer wildflowers will be opening up. We’ll explore the forest floor and see what ephemeral flowers might still be open, and what ones have already gone by. We’ll pass by the beautiful Allen Brook that flows through the property and into Chocorua River.
The 78-acre Mary P. Scott Preserve was donated to the CLC in 1976 and is part of several conserved properties north of the lake that protect upland forests and water quality. A mix of deciduous and conifer forest provides cooling shade along portions of the trail, while in other areas we’ll cross eskers and walk along ridges.
The casual walk will allow exploration along moderate terrain. Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers for the weather. Be prepared for biting insects, and potential ticks. Still worth the adventure with or without the insect participants! A snack and water is always a good thing to have in your pockets or pack. If you have not yet been vaccinated, or are less than two weeks from your last shot, please bring a mask for moments when social distancing is not possible. Meet at the Hammond Trail parking spot at the end of Scott Road in Chocorua. Please email lflaccus@chocorualake.org with your phone number to let us know you will be coming so that we can let you know of any changes in the schedule.
Naturalist Lynne Flaccus has 30+ years of experience in land conservation and stewardship, managing protected properties, studying wildlife, and educating adults and children.
Banner image: A guided exploration at the TNC Bolles Reserve in 2019. Photo: Alex Moot