Thompson Forest, Durham

Photo courtesy of SELT

Good things come to those who wait. For four generations, the Thompson family worked on and cared for 200 acres of forest and dairy farm. For over twenty years, they worked to find a way to conserve the land permanently. Sitting atop the Spruce Hole Aquifer, with 3500 feet of frontage on the Wild and Scenic Lamprey River and proximity to other conserved land, many partners (including the Lamprey Rivers Advisory Committee) shared the dream of protecting this land. In 2016, the final 53 acres that constitute the Thompson Forest project were added and the Southeast Land Trust (SELT) acquired the conservation easement.

While the Thompson family ran its farm operations, public access was limited. The land is currently undergoing some changes under its new ownership. Some of the pasture once used for grazing dairy cows is being converted to create open/shrubby habitat for threatened wildlife. The Town of Durham and SELT are working on plans to create walking trails that will allow people to learn about and enjoy the property while protecting sensitive areas. The Lamprey Rivers Advisory Committee provided funds to build a kiosk and is working with the town's conservation commission to create content for the kiosk panel.

The wait for the public is almost over. The goal is to have trails ready for the summer of 2018. Until then, please be patient. Remember, good things come to those who wait.