Upper Connecticut River Paddler's Trail Strategic Assessment

Home , Comerford Reservoir, Connecticut River, Moore Dam, Moore Reservoir, Nulhegan River

VERMONT RIVER CONSERVANCY: Upper Connecticut River Paddler's Trail Strategic Assessment

Prepared for

The Vermont River Conservancy. 29 Main St. Suite 11 Montpelier, Vermont 05602

Prepared by Noah Pollock 55 Harrison Ave Burlington, Vermont 05401 (802) 540-0319 • [email protected]

Updated May 12th, 2009 CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction...... 2 Results of the Stakeholder Review and Analysis...... 5 Summary of Connecticut River Paddler's Trail Planning Documents...... 9 Campsite and Access Point Inventory and Gap Analysis...... 14 Conclusions and Recommendations...... 29 Appendix A: Connecticut River Primitive Campsites and Access Meeting Notes...... 32 Appendix B: Upper Valley Land Trust Campsite Monitoring Checklist...... 35 Appendix C: Comprehensive List of Campsites and Access Points ...... 36 Appendix D: Example Stewardship Signage ...... 39

LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1: Northern Forest Canoe Trail Railroad Trestle ...... 2 Figure 2: Excerpt From The CRJC Recreation Managementent Plan...... 10 Figure 3: "Wet Willy" - A Simple Privy For Primitive Campsites...... 13 Figure 4: Sign In Register...... 13 Figure 5: Upper Connecticut River Regions And Stewards...... 15 Figure 6: Canaan To Columbia ...... 17 Figure 7: Potential Campsites Near Columbia ...... 18 Figure 8: Columbia To Debanville Landing ...... 19 Figure 9: Debanville Landing To Wyoming Dam ...... 21 Figure 10: Potential Campsite Near Guildhall ...... 22 Figure 11: Maidstone Bends To Gilman Dam ...... 23 Figure 12: Gilman Dam To Dodge Falls ...... 24 Figure 13: Dodge Falls To Wilson Landing ...... 25 Figure 14: Wilson Landing To Hoyt's Landing ...... 27 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

Figure 15: Hoyt's Landing To Stebbin's Island...... 28 Figure 16: Canaan River Access Signage ...... 30 Figure 17: Old Railroad Trestle Near Maidstone ...... 31

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1. Upper Valley Land Trust Primitive Campsites...... 6 Table 2. TransCanada Hydro Northeast Connecticut River Facilities...... 7 Table 3: River Campsite And Access Point Density Comparisons...... 12

FIGURE 1: NORTHERN FOREST CANOE TRAIL RAILROAD TRESTLE CAMPSITE

2 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

Introduction Report Background As New England’s longest waterway, the Connecticut River is a rich ecological, cultural, and recreational resource that connects the people and places through which it passes. With consistently navigable waters, few portages or difficult rapids, and a rich and varied landscape, the Upper Connecticut River (defined in this report as the stretch of river dividing Vermont and New Hampshire) is being increasingly recognized as premier destination for paddler tourism and recreation. Yet despite the growing need, there is no official paddler's trail. Significant sections still have limited public access, lack official camping sites, and are inadequately signed for visitors. While well-meaning recreation development and strategic planning continues by a variety of organizations, visitors seeking to explore the Upper Connecticut have no designated entity to turn to for guidance, and landowners and stakeholders who wish to help develop new campsites and access points or have concerns about impacts have no clear organization to contact.

Over the past ten years, the Vermont River Conservancy has played a role in creating the foundation for an Upper Connecticut River Paddler's Trail by spearheading the development of new public access points, primitive campsites, and portage trails in the northern sections of the river. It is now undertaking an initiative to craft a strategic plan for further developing the recreational resources of the Upper Connecticut River. This assessment serves as the initial step in this process. Study Goals This study builds upon previous planning processes spearheaded by the a Connecticut River Working Group, the Connecticut River Joint Commissions, the Nulhegan Gateway Association, and the National Park’s Rivers and Trail Program. It incorporates new field research, analysis and the results of a range of discussions with area landowners and stakeholders. Its goals were to:

ϐϐ Develop a list of organizations who could play a role in the development of an Upper Connecticut River Paddler's Trail; ϐϐ Conduct interviews with river stewards and knowledgeable individuals to better understand the location of both preexisting and potential campsites and public access points, as well as their current owners and management considerations; ϐϐ Assess gaps in camping and access sites, and locate prospective sites within those gaps; ϐϐ Synthesize the findings of previous planning documents and conversations with stakeholders to identify relevant guidelines to follow when developing new campsites and access points.

3 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

Study Area

This study focused on the Upper Connecticut, defined as the 237 miles of the river between Canaan, Vermont, and Vernon, Vermont. While sections of the Connecticut are navigable upstream of Canaan, intermittent water levels, dangerous rapids, and frequent portages make these reaches largely undesirable for paddlers. Vernon is the southern most town on the river within Vermont.

Methodology

Area stakeholders were contacted to help address the study’s goals. Stakeholders included:

ϐϐ Kenneth Alton, External Relations Manager, TransCanada Hydro Northeast ϐϐ Bill Bridge, Former Stewardship Coordinator, Upper Valley Land Trust ϐϐ Lou Bushy, Forester, Vermont Deparment of Forests, Parks, and Recreation ϐϐ Jean Dedam, Director, Nulhegan Gateway Association ϐϐ Representative David Deen, River Steward, Connecticut River Watershed Council ϐϐ Monica Erhart, Stewardship Coordinator, Upper Valley Land Trust ϐϐ Jeff Meyers, paddler, former Vermont River Conservancy Director ϐϐ Luke O’Brien, Outdoor Educator, NorthWoods Stewardship Center ϐϐ Walter Opuszynski, Trail Director, Northern Forest Canoe Trail ϐϐ Andy Williams, Executive Director, Hulbert Foundation ϐϐ Adair Mulligan, Conservation Director, Connecticut River Joint Commissions ϐϐ Kevin Rose, Paddleways founder and former VRC board member ϐϐ Bill Schomburg, local paddler and volunteer with the Northern Forest Canoe Trail, Nulhegan Gateway Association, and Friends of the Nulhegan ϐϐ Brendan Whitaker, local landowner, Brunswick select board chair, former Secretary of the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources ϐϐ Sam Ward, landowner, Guildhall, VT ϐϐ Charlie Wilkinson, seasonal farmer, Singing Cedars Farm, Orwell, VT ϐϐ Kate Williams, Director, Northern Forest Canoe Trail

This study also included two site visits to survey the river with local community members and visit both existing and potential access points and campsites. It draws extensively from planning documents prepared by the Connecticut River Joint Commissions, the National Park Service’s Rivers and Trails Program, the Connecticut River Working Group, and the Connecticut River Watershed Council’s Connecticut River Boating Guide (3rd Edition).

To aid with strategic planning, a map was created using Google Earth that contains information on preexisting and potential campsites and access points, details on ownership, and management considerations.

4 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

Results of the Stakeholder Review and Analysis

A myriad of organizations exist which manage access points and primitive campsites, or otherwise shape recreation development along the Upper Connecticut River. In this dynamic, decentralized effort, creating a unified Connecticut River Paddler's Trail must be a joint effort. However, thanks to a history of collaborative planning, the organizations highlighted below could become key allies in such an effort.

Connecticut River Working Group (CRWG) The CRWG is an informal association of non-governmental organizations, local, state and federal officials, local business owners, and concerned citizens who meet periodically to discuss opportunities and challenges for managing the recreational resources of the northern reaches of the Upper Connecticut River. Building on the efforts of the Upper Valley Land Trust, it has developed a stewardship manual for recreational facilities in the region. These guidelines (discussed below) provide a useful framework for evaluating the establishment of new campsites and access points, and identify potential management concerns and impacts of existing and proposed facilities to water quality, wildlife movement, rare, threatened and endangered species, local economies, and other users’ enjoyment of the river and surrounding land.

Connecticut River Watershed Council (CRWC) The CRWC has been the Connecticut River’s primary watchdog and steward for more than 50 years. They advocate for the environmental health of the entire Connecticut River, and publish the Con- necticut River Boating Guide, an extensive and exhaustive resource for paddlers seeking to explore the river. In their Connecticut River Recreation Management Plan, the Connecticut River Joint Com- missions identified the Connecticut River Watershed Council as a logical partner in the development of a paddler's trail. However, conversations with the CRWC River Steward for Vermont and New Hampshire suggests they currently do not have the capacity to serve as managers for a Connecti- cut River Paddler's Trail, but are willing to work collaboratively with other organizations seeking to spearhead such an effort.

Connecticut River Joint Commissions (CRJC) The Connecticut River Joint Commissions serves as the primary network fostering collaborative planning efforts for the Upper Connecticut River. Created in the late 1980s by Vermont and New Hampshire, these advisory commissions advocate for the river while ensuring public involvement in decisions which affect the valley. The CRJC’s recently updated Connecticut River Recreation Man- agement Plan, based on discussions by the CRJC’s five local river subcommittees, presents a summary of the river’s recreation-related issues. They also post maps and river descriptions from the CRWC guidebook on their website.

5 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

Upper Valley Land Trust (UVLT) The Upper Valley Land Trust works to protect the working farms, forested ridges, wildlife habitat, water resources, trails, and scenic landscapes of the Upper Connecticut River, including riparian habitat along the 85 miles stretch of river between Ryegate, Vermont, and Charlestown, New Hampshire. In the early 1990s, the Upper Valley Land Trust was instrumental in the establishment of a series of twenty-one primitive campsites along the Connecticut River. Their management and monitoring protocols serve as the model for both the National Park Service’s “Connecticut River Primitive Campsites Stewardship Guidelines” and the Connecticut River Working Group's "North- ern Connecticut River Recreational Facility Stewardship Guidelines." From the late 1990s to 2006, the UVLT hired a full-time staff person (as part of their community relations program) to develop new campsites and trails on conserved lands. In 2006, the UVLT reevaluated their Connecticut River campsite program, and made the decision to only actively manage the six campsites and two public launches on properties protected with UVLT conservation easements (Table 1). Arrangements were made for other sites to be maintained by other organizations, including TransCanada Hydro Northeast, the Piermont Conservation Commision, the Anti- och Paddlers Club, and local landowners. However, several of the original campsites have not been maintained in recent years and no longer appear in current maps or river guides. Furthermore, some of the campsites indicated in river guides are no longer being stewarded, and their fate is uncertain. Campsite management currently falls under the auspices of Monica Erhart, UVLT’s Stewardship Coordinator, who enlists volunteers to visit each campsite approximately once a month during the summer season. Volunteers are responsible for monitoring impacts and checking the condition of campsite signage, logbooks, and privies. Establishing new campsites or access points is not part of the UVLT long-term strategic plan, as the density of campsites and access points within their geo- graphical region is sufficient to meet current demand.

TABLE 1. UPPER VALLEY LAND TRUST PRIMITIVE CAMPSITES AND ACCESS POINTS Campsite Name Location Burnham Meadow Group Campsite Windsor, VT Burnaps Island Campsite Plainfield, NH Roaring Brook Campsite Ely, VT Birch Meadow Campsite Ely, VT Vaughan Meadow Campsite Newbury, VT Knoxland Farm Cartop Boat Launch Newbury, VT Hewes Brook Cartop Boat Launch Lyme, NH Harkdale Farm Campsite Newbury, VT

Local and County Governments A handful of New Hampshire towns, including Colebrook, North Stratford, Lyme, and Lebanon, have also developed public river access sites in their communities. Some local municipalities have established primitive campsites as well. For example, the town of Columbia’s Conservation Com- mission recently established a paddler campsite on town-owned land. In addition, New Hampshire’s Grafton County allows camping on Howard Island, and the town of Piermont enlists its local conservation commission to manage the former UVLT Underhill Campsite.

6 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

The Northern Forest Canoe Trail (NFCT) Since 2000, the NFCT has been working to develop new access points and canoe campsites along the 740-mile water trail, which follows the Connecticut River for 20 miles from the confluence of the Nulhegan River in Bloomfield, Vermont, to the confluence with the Upper Ammonoosuc, near Groveton, NH. They have been working with landowners to develop two campsites in this reach and to improve access in Stratford, New Hampshire. Recently, they have been assisting the town of Colebrook to establish a “spur trail” north of Bloomfield, and will be constructing a new site in the Maidstone Bends region during the summer of 2009. The NFCT hires interns and enlists volunteers to complete stewardship projects along the trail each summer.

The Vermont River Conservancy In recent years, the Vermont River Conservancy has played an important role in conserving riparian resources and creating new public access points and primitive camping facilities for paddlers along the northern section of the Connecticut River. Their efforts helped establish a paddler campsite at Lyman Falls, a public access at Debanville Landing in Bloomfield, and a formal portage and take-out at Wyoming Dam, in Guildhall. In addition, they have also recently purchased conservation easements for several parcels along the Nulhegan River near its confluence with the Connecticut River in Bloomfield. TransCanada Hydro Northeast Since the 1970s, hydroelectric companies have offered public access and provided primitive camping on the Connecticut River at many of their properties, which span from north of Canaan to Vernon. Currently, TransCanada Hydro Northeast, which owns the majority of the river’s dams, provides 14 public access points, three primitive campsites for paddlers, and seven picnic areas along the river (Table 2). In addition, they are actively developing an additional campsite on the Moore Reservoir. Essex Hydro also provides a primitive campsite at their property at Dodge Falls. While these companies are willing to provide locations for primitive campsites and develop the necessary infrastructure, they generally do not have the capacity to provide ongoing site maintenance and upkeep.

TABLE 2. TRANSCANADA HYDRO NORTHEAST CONNECTICUT RIVER FACILITIES Lakes Region Second Lake Dam Picnic Area Picnic Area Second Lake Picnic and Boat Launching Area Access Point First Lake Dam Picnic and Boat Launching Area Access Point Island Picnic Area Picnic Area Moore Reservoir Region East Concord Gilman Boat Launching Area Access Point North Littleton Picnic and Boat Launching Area Access Point Visitor Center and Picnic Area Picnic Area Dodge Hill Picnic and Boat Launching Area Access Point Pattenville Picnic and Boat Launching Area Access Point Island Picnic Area Picnic Area Waterford Picnic and Boat Launching Area Access Point

7 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

Comerford Reservoir and McIndoes Dam Waterford Bridge Boat Launch Access Point Pine Grove Picnic and Boat Launching Area Access Point McIndoes Dam Picnic Area Picnic Area Wilder Dam Region Wilder Picnic Area Picnic Area Olcott Falls Boat Launching Area Access Point Fishermen's Parking and Access Access Point Visitor Center and Fish Ladder Picnic Area Gilman Island Canoe Rest Area Campsite Lebanon Picnic Area Picnic Area Hartland Falls Picnic Area Picnic Area Charlestown Lower Landing Picnic and Boat Launch Access Point Pine Street Boat Launching Area Access Point Visitor Center and Fish Ladder Picnic Area Governor Hunt Picnic and Boath Launching Area Access Point Vernon Glen Picnic Area Picnic Area Hinsdale Canoe Rest Area Campsite Stebbin's Island Canoe Rest Area Campsite

The NorthWoods Stewardship Center

The NorthWoods Stewardship Center, located in East Charlestown, Vermont, is an active supporter of paddler recreation in the Northern Forest. The center regularly provides guided trips along the Connecticut River. In addition, their Kingdom Corps program hires local youth to provide conservation, restoration, and stewardship services for area partners during the summer.

The State of Vermont The State Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation currently owns and manages several access points, including sites in Bloomfield, North Thetford, and Pompanoosuc. In addition, they provide primitive, river-assessible only camping facilities at Lyman Falls State Park and hold a public access easement for a working forest currently owned by Plum Creek. The Department of Transportation also provided land for a portage trail and river access in Guildhall, near the breached Wyoming Dam.

The State of New Hampshire The New Hampshire Department of Fish and Game provides access at Arlin Brook, in Colebrook, and at a public launch in Lebanon. The state’s Department of Resources and Economic Develop- ment's Parks and Recreation Division also has established boat access at Bedell Bridge State Park in the town of Haverhill.

Private Landowners and Organizations Several private landowners also provide camping and access on their properties independent of any partner organization. For example, several landowners informally allow local paddlers to camp at their properties near Columbia, New Hampshire. The late Sherry Belknap also established a primi-

8 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

tive campsite at the confluence of the Nulhegan and the Connecticut. A private campground is located along the river in Orford, New Hampshire. Dartmouth Outing Club provides access at their Ledyard Canoe Club. Finally, the Student Conservation Association allows the public to camp on an island they own near Charlestown, New Hampshire.

The Nature Conservancy and the Vermont Land Trust The Nature Conservancy has recently embarked on a long-term project to conserve habitat along the Connecticut River in the Maidstone Bends region of the river. The Vermont Land Trust hold easements on riparian lands owned by the Meadowsend LLC, a timber management fund. However, to date, river access or primitive camping facilities have not been developed for these parcels. Connecticut River Byways The U.S. Department of Transportation has recognized the Upper Connecticut River as a National Scenic Byway. As part of this grassroots collaborative effort, the federal government provides funding to help “preserve, protect, interpret, and promote the intrinsic qualities of designated byways” – including Route 102 in Vermont, and Routes 145 and 3 in New Hampshire. This designation, largely due to the efforts of the CRJC, may provide a mechanism to fund access improvements and the installation of wayfinding signage for the Upper Connecticut River. The Nulhegan Gateway Association The Nulhegan Gateway Association is a nonprofit supported by the Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund and Businesses for the Northern Forest. Its mission is to “coordinate community and economic development that will support the region's environmental stewardship and unique traditional character through education and advocacy activities” in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom. Its four committees (Heritage Trails, Recreation, Education, and Entrepeneur Development) meet regularly to develop new initiatives for the region.

Summary of Connecticut River Paddler's Trail Planning Documents

Several previous planning documents provide useful context for this strategic assessment. Key insights from the 2009 CRJC Recreation Management Plan, the Connecticut River Work Group's Northern Connecticut River Recreational Facility Stewardship Guidelines, and the National Park Service's Connecticut River Primitive Water Trail Campsite Stewardship Guidelines are presented below.

CRJC Recreation Management Plan In January of 2009, the CRJC released a revised version of their Connecticut River Recreation Man- agement Plan. This 94-page document, which represents an update of the 1997 Connecticut River Corridor Management Plan, was written based upon discussions held by the CRJC and its five local river management advisory subcommittees. The report highlighted the following pressing concerns:

9 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

ϐϐ Access to private land traditionally FIGURE 2: EXCERPT FROM THE CRJC available for public use is becoming RECREATION MANAGEMENT PLAN increasingly limited "Despite these efforts and the campsites' success, ϐϐ Funding for land conservation to benefit there is currently no coordinated management public recreation is essential of the Connecticut River Water Trail. A variety of ϐϐ User pressure is increasing at existing organizations are bombarded with requests for campsites information. Effective coordination is needed to create and maintain relations with landowners, ϐϐ Responsible management of riverfront select appropriate campsite locations, and maintain land is critical and monitor existing campsites, using common The report makes several recommendations, standard and practices. A process is needed for including expanding public river access for addressing unauthorized campsites and access. A car-top boats and establishing guidelines for central clearinghouse is needed to handle inquiries building new campsites. It highlights the need about the river and the campsites from those who to establish new campsites, particularly in the wish to experience the Connecticut River in this sixty mile stretch below Maidstone where no way. Decisions need to be made about the best official campsites have been established. way to provide information to users and protect the campsites' appeal without promoting the water This plan advocates for more aggressive man- trail beyond its capacity" agement of invasive species. In particular, there is a need for new education efforts, boat wash stations, and lake host programs. Conservation commissions could regularly monitor for outbreaks at town properties and boat launches. The report also calls for coordinated management of the Connecticut River Paddler's Trail (See Figure 2).

Connecticut River Working Group's "Northern Connecticut River Recreational Facility Stewardship Guidelines" On June 1st, 2006, the Nulhegan Gateway Association convened a meeting of landowners, public officials, river organizations, area businesses, and citizens to discuss current usage of the river for recreational purposes with a focus on primitive camping and car-top boat access points (See Appendix A for the meeting notes). Participants at the meeting felt that the recreational use of the river is still low impact, and paddlers using the river above Maidstone are "generally well behaved.” However, campers don’t always ask permission when using private land, and many do not realize that most of the land is privately owned. Some paddlers fail to practice "leave no trace" ethics, and leave behind trash, beer cans, tent stakes and other metals. Meeting attendants also felt that the state of Vermont has been slow with installing new river access points. In particular, participants felt that additional access is desirable between Guildhall and Maidstone bridge. In terms of campsite arrangements, participants remarked that arrangements must be “solid,” and recommended setting group size limits. Participants indicated that all campsites should have a manager, which can become cumbersome to orchestrate. The group has summarized their findings into a set of guidelines designed to help partners manage access and campsite development for the northern Connecticur River, which they defined as the region between the Connecticut River's source in northern New Hampshire and the town of Barnet, Vermont. The report provides useful recommendations on identifying and developing access points and campsites, and provides guidelines for campsite maintenance and monitoring. It highlights the

10 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

need to be mindful of other recreational users, rare, threatenned, or endangered species, wildlife movement corridors, and historically significant archeological sites.

National Parks Service's Rivers and Trails Program's “Connecticut River Primitive Campsites: Campsite Stewardship Guidelines” In 2000, the National Park Services River and Trails Program undertook a process to establish a manual for developing new campsites for the Upper Connecticut River. It provides a set of standards for designing, building, and maintaining campsites. The summary of their suggested standards, along with insights gleaned from conversations with NFCT and UVLT staff, are presented below.

Recommendations for Securing Public Access Agreements The Campsite Stewardship Guidelines lay out five approaches to establishing agreements with landowners to develop campsites on private land:

ϐϐ Informal handshake agreements ϐϐ Letter of agreement for a specified period of time with an option for renewal ϐϐ Leases ϐϐ Easements that allow for the establishment of campsites ϐϐ Outright acquisition of the property at issue The Northern Forest Canoe Trail relies exclusively on informal handshake agreements when developing new campsites. On the other hand, the UVLT now only manages campsites protected with a recorded easement. In many situations, beginning with an informal agreement is a useful starting point as a way for both parties to explore what a long-term arrangement could look like. Handshake agreements, letters of agreements, and leases provide a mechanism enabling landowners to become familiar with potential canoe camping and stewardship arrangments. In general, establishing a formal easement or outright acquistion of the parcel should be the ultimate goal of any campsite development project to ensure permanence.

Site Spacing The National Park Service’s River and Trails Program recommends establishing campsites at a density of one every five miles, a distance which allows for flexibility in trip planning, for if one site has reached capacity, it would be possible for paddlers to reach a further site before nightfall. This is close to the frequency of campsites in the stretch of river where the UVLT has focused its conservation efforts; there are currently 13 campsites in the 72-mile stretch between Dodge Falls and Burnap Island, for a camping density of 1 campsite every 5.5 river miles. For comparision, the current campsite density between Canaan and Dodge Falls, north of the UVLT campsites, is one campsite every 11.3 river miles. The Northern Forest Canoe Trail is working to ensure primitive camping is available, at a minimum, at spacing of one campsite for every 10-15 miles along the 740-mile waterway. However, as seen in Table 3, many places along the NFCT have a much higher campsite density. For example, on the popular Raquette River, 20 campsites are situated in the 25-mile stretch between Long Lake and Indian Carry.

11 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

TABLE 3: RIVER CAMPSITE AND ACCESS POINT DENSITY COMPARISONS Length Offical Access River Description (miles) Campsites Points Wild and scenic river Raquette River: Long Lake to on the edge of the 25 20 3 Indian Carry, New York Adirondack High Peaks Rural river flowing through The Saranac River, New York a mix of private and public 63 10 8 land Scenic and meandering The Clyde River, Vermont river flowing through the 31 4 13 Northeast Kingdom Remote and wild river, The Allagash River: Umsaskis popular paddling 50 45 2 Lake to Allagash Village destination Rural river flowing through Connecticut River: Vermont predominately private 237 26 60 and New Hampshire lands

Site Size The River and Trails program recommends establishing campsites large enough to accommodate five to six two person tents. However, the experience of the UVLT and the NFCT suggests smaller campsite sizes may be more appropriate, depending on site characteristics and the desires of landowners. One approach is to set clear size limits for campsites, and to provide a mix of large group and small group campsites, depending on site conditions and landowner concerns.

Site Access The stewardship guidelines recommend developing sites with limited access from the land as a tool for discouraging day use and car camping and decreasing the burden on the site. The best sites allow for a land route for campsite maintenance, but not for other users. River access should provide safe landing at a variety of river conditions while providing good drainage during rain events or high water conditions.

Archeological Sites Given the importance of waterways as a route of travel for Native Americans, occasionally ideal campsite locations have important archeological significance. The guidelines recommend consulting with state historical preservation experts to determine if campsite construction is appropriate.

Site Infrastructure The stewardship guidelines call for installing a privy, register box, picnic table, and wayfinding signage. Some sites also may be suitable for fire rings. These guidelines are similar to the approach

12 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

used by the Northern Forest Canoe Trail and the Upper Valley Land Trust. Privy: Depending on the level of use, site characteristics, and the preferences of land owners, the NFCT and the UVLT either install a traditional outhouse, a composting outhouse, or a “wet willy.” Outhouses are a traditional approach to managing waste, and are often preferred by state agencies. However, in situations with high use, the waste is slow to biodegrade and can pollute local water supplies. Composting systems are becoming increasingly common in the backcountry. Typically providing a mechanism for aeration and the addition of carbon, composting toilets are a clear improvement over traditional outhouses. However, the construction and maintenance of composting systems is slightly more involved. A wet willy (Figure 3) is a simple form of composting toilet ideal for very lightly used sites. Designed to be installed over shallow holes where soil microbes can effectively breakdown waste, wet willys need to be rotated to different sites on a regular basis. Wet willys also have the advantage of being easily to move to high ground during the off-season.

FIGURE 3: "WET WILLY" - A SIMPLE PRIVY FOR PRIMITIVE CAMPSITES

Sign in register boxes: Register boxes provide a system to measure campsite use and collect visitor comments. They also provide a location to post campsite rules and guidelines, a campsite map, and FIGURE 4: SIGN IN REGISTER organizational information (Figure 4). The UVLT also used the register box as a place to put donation envelopes. However, in their experience, these envelopes are rarely utilized. Picnic table: The NFCT and the UVLT typically provide picnic tables at their campsite locations. Picnic tables help paddlers identify the site and, according to paddler feed- back, are a much-appreciated amenity. However, they can be subject to vandalism. Indeed, a picnic table installed at the NFCT railroad trestle campsite near Maidstone was tossed in the river, only to appear at a river bank downstream! The NFCT builds picnic tables on site using the

13 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

help of volunteers during “waterway work trips” which building community and a sense of river stewardship. Fire rings: Fires are generally discouraged at both NFCT and UVLT sites, particularly those con- structed on private property. Instead, campers are encouraged to use portable stoves for cooking. However, several sites do have fire rings, as campers are often accustomed to building campfires during their paddling trip. As such, campfire rings should be considered on a case-by-case basis. Signage: A variety of signs are recommended for the Connecticut River Primitive Campsites:

ϐϐ Yellow Target Signs, to help paddlers identify campsites from the river ϐϐ Boundary Signs, which inform users of the campsite limits to discourage trespassing on neighboring property or into ecological sensitive areas ϐϐ A Privy Sign, as when privies are located away from the campsite, signage can help campers locate it ϐϐ Stewardship Guidelines, containing rules for camper etiquette and behavior (See Appen- dix D for examples)

Campsite Maintenance and Monitoring The Rivers and Trails program recommends regular visits to campsites. Both the NFCT and the UVLT enlist the help of local volunteers for maintenance and monitoring tasks. Typically, campsites are first visited in late April or early May, at least twice during the summer season, and are closed for the season in late October. The UVLT provides a site visit report for volunteers to fill out during each visit. A checklist for tasks to be completed by volunteers is included as Appendix B in this report.

Campsite and Access Point Inventory and Gap Analysis

River Overview By combining a review of published guides and maps with conversations with area landowners and site visits, this study has established an inventory of both official and informal campsite and public access for the Upper Connecticut. To aid in collaborative planning, the results of this inventory are summarized below, and are also available as a Google Earth document. Approximately 26 public campsites and 60 offical access points currently have been established in the 237-mile stretch of the river between the towns of West Stewartstown and Vernon. However, not all of these sites are regularly maintained. Several informal campsite and access points are also in existence without formal agreements with landowners. Through most of the river, public access is sufficient to meet current demand. . Particularly in the northern reaches, the availability of official designated campsites remains limited. The largest gaps in official campsites sites incude:

ϐϐ West Stewartstown to Columbia (15 miles)

14 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

ϐϐ Maidstones Bends to Gilman Dam (35 miles) ϐϐ Gilman to Dodge Falls (29.5 miles) ϐϐ Walpole to Brattleboro (17 miles) One can divide the Connecticut River’s campsite system into three regions (Figure 5). North of Bath, New Hampshire, campsites are sparse. Those that have been developed have been developed by the NFCT, VRC, local conservation commissions, and state agencies. The Connecticut River Working Group has been working to encourage collaborative planning in this area. The region stretching from Bath, NH, to Charlestown, NH, has the highest density of campsites, thanks to the UVLT conservation and stewardship efforts in this region. Farther south, a modest amount of public campsites have been built, primarily on TransCanada Hydro Northeast’s property. Each of these sections is explored in further detail in the following section of this report, and Appendix C contains a comprehensive list of access points, campsites, their ownership and river location.

FIGURE 5: UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER REGIONS AND STEWARDS

Connecticut River Working Group; Vermont River Northern Forest Canoe Trail Conservancy

Bath, NH.

Upper Valley Land Trust

Charlestown, NH.

TransCanada Hydro Northeast

15 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

Canaan, VT to Columbia, NH (14 miles) Canaan, Vermont, just downstream of Beecher Falls, marks the first consistently navigable reach on the Connecticut River. It alternates between swift and flat waters as it meanders through a series of agricultural valleys. Access is generally adequate in this reach. In Canaan, paddlers can put in at the bridge or at a wastewater treatment facility just south of town. Seven miles to the south, in Cole- brook, access is possible at a New Hampshire Fish and Wildlife access near Arlin Brook. Both the towns of Colebrook (12 miles south of Canaan) and Columbia (four miles south of Colebrook) provide access near bridge abutments. However, wayfinding and paddler etiquette signage for many of these access points (particularly Arlin Brook) is very limited. Official campsites are limited to a single primitive site established in 2008 by the town of Columbia’s Conservation Commission on a town-owned parcel one mile north of the town center (Figure 6). Local paddlers also report using informal campsites at an island downstream of the Canaan waste water treatment plant, and at a well-established site on private property further down river. In addition, a landowner permits local paddlers to camp at his property near the border of Columbia and Colebrook, NH. However, none of these sites are officially designated or advertised to the public. In 2002, Jeff Meyers and Kevin Rose paddled this stretch of the river, and identified over thirty potential campsites. Camping at these site was identified as phyiscally possible. However, no contact or commitment was made with the landowners. In particular, of the sites they identified, six sites situated at two river bends (Figure 7) would be well placed to reduce the gap in camping options. The VRC is also in communication with landowners at a site in Lemington, Vermont. At 13.5 miles downstream of Canaan, this site is well situated within a day of paddling from either Canaan or Colebrook. Recommendations ϐϐ Improve wayfinding and paddler etiquette signage at all access points, especially at Arlin Brook ϐϐ Establish a primitive campsite in Lemington ϐϐ Promote and improve signage for the Columbia campsite ϐϐ Initiate discussions with local landowners who own sites where informal camping already exists, with the goal of establishing official campsites and regular maintenance visits ϐϐ Visit the six sites identified by Jeff Meyers and Kevin Rose indicated in Figure 7

16 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

FIGURE 6: CANAAN TO COLUMBIA

LEGEND Established, offical campsite

Established, informal campsite (no offical approval from landowner) Potential Campsite (Identified by Jeff Meyers and Kevin Rose as physically possible, but no contact or commitment established with landowner)

Potential Campsite (Contact made with landowner by the VRC, but no commitment established)

Boat Launch (Improved ramp)

Boat Launch (Hand carry only)

17 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

FIGURE 7: POTENTIAL CAMPSITES NEAR COLUMBIA

LEGEND

Potential Campsite (Identified by Jeff Meyers and Kevin Rose as physically possible, but no contact or commitment established with landowner)

Columbia, NH to Bloomfield, VT (11 miles) In this eleven mile stretch of river, the Connecticut River is dominated by swift water as it transi- tions from a mountain stream to a rural river that meanders through a classic New England landscape of dairy farms and riparian woodlands. Access is possible at the Columbia Covered Bridge, at the Debanville Landing in Bloomfield, and at a town-owned park in North Stratford (Figure 8). While a Northern Forest Canoe Trail kiosk is located close to the Debanville Landing site, signage is limited at other locations. The town of Columbia has been in discussion with a landowner of a site near Lyman Falls who is willing to provide both access and camping. However, access is only possible by crossing through a separate property, which has stalled efforts to move forward with conservation. The state of Vermont also holds a public access easement on lands currently owned by Plum Creek adjacent to the river. This potential access has not been formalized.

18 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

FIGURE 8: COLUMBIA TO DEBANVILLE LANDING

LEGEND

Established Campsite

Potential Access Point (Not officially established)

Boat Launch (Improved ramp)

Boat Launch (Hand carry only)

A much-appreciated campsite established with the assistance of the VRC at Lyman Falls provides the only camping options in this section. While a primitive campsite has also been built just upstream of the confluence of the Nulhegan on the property of the late Sherry Belknap, signage and sanitary facilities are currently nonexistent. In addition, as it is close to Rt 102, this site may also have limited appeal to most paddlers. Its ease of access from the road could also lead to use by non-paddlers. Jeff Meyers and Kevin Rose identified approximately twenty other potential campsite locations in this section of the river, which could be useful as alternatives to the Nulhegan campsite.

Recommendations ϐϐ Install signage at the Columbia Covered Bridge Access Point ϐϐ Provide assistance to the the town of Columbia as it works to protect property near Lyman Falls ϐϐ Further investigate campsites identified by Jeff Meyers and Kevin Rose north of Debanville Landing 19 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

Debanville Landing to Wyoming Dam (26 miles) Much of this section is managed as a “natural segment” for exclusive use by nonmotorized craft. Wildlife abounds, and views of Bear Mountain and the Percy Peaks provide a beautiful backdrop for river excursions. The Northern Forest Canoe Trail follows this reach for the first twenty miles from the confluence of the Nulhegan to the mouth of the Upper Ammonusuc. In the past three years, the NFCT has been instrumental in improving signage, access, and primitive campsites in this region. Public access can be found in Bloomfield, North Startford, Maidstone, and Guildhall (Figure 9). In 2006, Ross Stevens at the NorthWoods Stewardship Center was contracted to improve access at the Maidstone Bridge (nine miles south of Bloomfield) by installing a set of timber cribbed stairs down the steep bank. 14 miles to the south, Wyoming Dam, in Guildhall, is a logical take out point and necessary portage, as the breached Wyoming Dam is a hazard due to rebar jutting into the river. A steep, worn, and clear marked portage trail is on the Vermont side, on private land donated by the owners and the Vermont Agency of Transportation. According to notes from a meeting convened by the Nulhegan Gateway Association, additional access is desired between the Maidstone bridge and the town of Guildhall. Land adjacent to a stock car race track near Groveton is one possibility worth exploring. Mary Sloat, a NFCT board member, provided land near a former railroad trestle as a site for a primitive campsite, which was developed through the assistance of volunteers during an NFCT’s “waterway work trip” in 2006. Recently, area farmer Ray Lovell granted permission to the NFCT to establish a campsite on his property in the Maidstone Bends region. A group of interns and volunteers will build a privy, picnic table, and register box at the site this summer. Additional campsite options are plentiful in this reach; Jeff Meyers and Kevin Rose identified nearly seventy potential campsites during their river trip. Several of their identified sites are in the Maidstone Bends region near Groveton, NH, where conservation is being actively pursued by the Nature Conservancy. How- ever, their current strategic plan does not call for developing campsites for paddlers. A prominent kiosk has been installed by the NFCT at Debanville Landing, which contains information on the area's history, waterways, local businesses, paddler ethics, and invasive species. Limited signage has also been installed at the Maidstone and Wyoming Dam access points. No signage has been crafted for the North Stratford launch.

20 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

v FIGURE 9: DEBANVILLE LANDING TO WYOMING DAM

LEGEND

Established, offical campsite

Established, informal campsite (no official permission granted by landowner) Potential Campsite (Identified by Jeff Meyers and Kevin Rose as physically possible, but no contact or commitment established with landowner)

Boat Launch (Improved ramp)

Boat Launch (Hand carry only)

Recommendations ϐϐ Install erosion control measures on the Wyoming Dam portage trail ϐϐ Work with the Nature Conservancy to explore the feasibility of creating a primitive campsite in the lower Maidstone Bends region. ϐϐ Explore additional public access locations near the stock car race track in Groveton, NH. ϐϐ Assist the NFCT, where appropriate, with establishing easements on NFCT campsites developed on private lands.

Maidstone Bends to Gilman Dam (24 miles) While a largely picturesque region, significant erosion is apparent among many of the river banks in this reach; at least one farmer has lined the banks with old cars as a stabilization measure! This section of the river, which falls north of the Upper Valley Land Trust campsites, and south of the Northern Forest Canoe Trail, only has one developed campsite for paddlers. This single campsite,

21 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

provided by TransCanada at the Gilman Dam portage, is thirty-five miles south of the Maidstone Bends campsite to the north.1 In this region, sparse but adequate access is possible below Wyoming Dam, at the Route 2 bridge in Lancaster, and at a site near the John’s River at an access developed by American Paper Mills. The Connecticut River Boating Guide indicates both access and camping are possible at the Mount Orne covered bridge (Figure 11). However, a field visit revealed steep banks, posted property, and no clear locations for either access or camping at this site. A resident of Guildhall, Vermont, is interested FIGURE 10: POTENTIAL CAMPSITE NEAR in working with the Vermont River Conser- GUILDHALL vancy to develop a campsite on his property, 5.5 miles below the Wyoming Dam. This beautiful, secluded site (Figure 10), 17 miles below a site being developed on private land by the NFCT, is nicely situated for through paddlers and should be considered a priority for conservation. Jeff Meyers and Kevin Rose identified eigh- teen potential campsites in this reach, which marked the furthest south of their explora- tions. A cluster of three sites located in a river bend north of the Mount Orne covered bridge should be further explored as potential sites for primitive camping.

Recommendations ϐϐ Work to establish a campsite in Guildhall ϐϐ Improve parking and access at the Mount Orne covered bridge ϐϐ Investigate sites identified by Jeff Meyers and Kevin Rose north of the Mount Orne Covered Bridge

1. While camping is possible at a private campground near the Route 2 bridge in Lancaster (Figure 9), it does not provide a wild feel, do to its proximity to an RV park and service station.

22 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

FIGURE 11: MAIDSTONE BENDS TO GILMAN DAM

LEGEND

Established, offical campsite

Established, informal campsite (no offical permission granted by landowner)

Potential campsite (Identified by Jeff Meyers and Kevin Rose, but no contact or commitment established with landowner)

Boat launch (improved ramp)

Boat launch (hand carry only)

Informal access point (no official public access )

Gilman Dam to Dodge Falls (28.5 miles) This reach is a beautiful part of the river, traversing through mixed evergreen and deciduous forest with ample views of the White Mountains. It includes the Nine Islands section, near the confluence of the Passumpsic, a place with the remnants of an ancient floodplain forest. Several well-established launch sites, most with improved boat ramps and toilet facilities, can be found on both sides of the river in this section. However, camping options are extremely limited. No campsites currently exist in the 29.5 mile section between Gilman Dam and Dodge Falls (Figure 12). The 3,500-acre Moore Reservoir, a province of motorboats and anglers, is the largest feature in this section. In their Connecticut River Recreation Management Plan, the CRJC identified the reservoir,

23 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

whose shores are largely owned by TransCanada, as a priority location for new campsite development. Conversations with Ken Alton, external relations manager at TransCanada Hydro Northeast, indicate that the company will construct a campsite on the reservoir during the summer of 2009. TransCanada Hydro Northeast also owns land in the Nine Miles region that may be well suited for camping. Given the paucity of camping options in this region, additional sites along the reservoir should be pursued collaboratively with TransCanada in this region. In the late 1990s, a campsite was built by the UVLT on Fiddlehead Island, below McIndoes Falls. However, this site has not been maintained in recent years.

Recommendations ϐϐ Conduct a site visit to explore additional camping options between the Moore Reservoir and Dodge Falls ϐϐ Work with TransCanada and other landowners to explore options for collaboratively developing additional campsites, particularly on Moore Reservoir and in the Nine Islands section. ϐϐ Assess and provide site maintenance for the Fiddlehead Island campsite

FIGURE 12: GILMAN DAM TO DODGE FALLS

LEGEND Established, offical campsite

Former UVLT campsite

Potential campsite (Identified during field visit, but no contact or commitment established with landowner)

Boat launch (improved ramp)

Boat Lauch (Hand carry only)

24 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

Dodge Falls to Wilson Landing (50 miles) The Connecticut River Boating Guide describes this reach as “lovely and winding” where one “may find your mind drifting along with the slow current.” Eleven campsites and ten access points are currently open for public use, largely thanks to the efforts of the Upper Valley Land Trust in the late 1990s. Today, however, several of these sites are managed by other organizations, including Essex Hydro (which manages Dodge Falls), the Piermont Conservation Commision (manager of the Un- derhill Campsite), and the Bradford Elementary School, which hosts the Bugbee Landing campsite. Horse Meadow, a site which the UVLT established, is now closed as no longstanding agreement was in place for its conservation or management. Similarly, the former UVLT Esther Salmi site, despite recognition in the Connecticut River Guidebook, is not currently stewarded by any organization or individual. Nevertheless, the remaining sites provide ample camping opportunities (Figure 13).

FIGURE 13: DODGE FALLS TO WILSON LANDING

LEGEND

Established, offical campsite

Former UVLT campsite not being currently maintained

Boat launch (improved ramp)

25 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

Wilson Landing to Hoyt's Landing (62 miles) Situated in the most populated section of the Upper Valley, this section of the river is used heavily by local residents. In sections, the river flows through a narrow valley with fast currents and inter- esting rapids - including Class IV rapids at high water at Sumner Falls. The islands in this section are noteworthy for a large number of endangered cobblestone tiger beetles, which makes its home among the cobbles on rocky beaches. Access and campsites also appears to be sufficient in this reach. TransCanada Hydro Northeast provides a campsite at Gilman Island, and the UVLT manages both a small site on Burnap Island and a group campsite at Burnham Meadows (Figure 14). The town of Lebanon is working to secure public access at a site currently under development by a private business owner. However, due to its proximity to Gilman and Burnap Islands, it is not a high priority as a location for an additional campsite. The opportunity also exists to develop official camping facilities at Hubbard Island, which is conserved by the UVLT and used primarily by the Student Conservation Association. Hoyt's Landing to Stebbin's Island (61 miles) The remainder of the Connecticut River in Vermont is a quiet, rural reach passing through rolling farmland overshadowed by high hills. While not as well spaced as further north, six campsites and sixteen access points were established in this region. Unfortunately, most of the sites in this region do not receive regular maintenance, and, as such, their current stewardship state is unclear. For example, the Windyhurst Campsite was built by the UVLT on a longstanding farm in the region. However, the UVLT did not hold an easement on the property, and does not currently provide site maintenance. While arrangements were made initially for site stewardship to contiune by a local volunteer, it is now unclear if this is still occuring. Further development of primitive campsites – particularly in the 17 mile section between the Windy- hurt and the Wantastiquet campsites (Figure 15) - would provide more opportunities for overnight paddlers. In addition, according to the CRJC, in this region, the towns of Ryegate, Westminister, and Westmoreland have all expressed interest in developing river access in their communities. Of these three communities, residents of Westmoreland have to travel the farthest to find public access.

26 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

FIGURE 14: WILSON LANDING TO HOYT'S LANDING

LEGEND

Established Campsite

Potential Campsite

Boat Launch (Improved ramp)

Boat Launch (Hand carry only)

27 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

FIGURE 15: HOYT'S LANDING TO STEBBINS ISLAND

LEGEND

Established Campsite

Boat Launch (Improved ramp)

Boat Launch (Hand carry only)

28 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

Conclusions and Recommendations

The establishment of an official Connecticut River Paddler's Trail is an overdue project. After years of campsite and access point development, a contiguous paddler’s trail is now well within reach. The results of this analysis also demonstrate that a myriad of potential partners exist who are willing to help with this endeavour. However, coordinating the efforts of these disparate entities may be a challenging undertaking. By helping to create an offically recognized paddler’s trail, the VRC can help reduce redundancy and ensure long-term stewardship of the river's recreational resources. The creation of a paddler's trail is not a trivial undertaking, and comes with responsibilities for monitoring and maintenance. The key conclusions of this report are as follows: Campsite Development New campsites are essential to complete the Connecticut River Paddler's Trail. This report provides a detailed analysis of the current gaps in primitive camping and identified locations where campsites can be developed. The following actions would close the large gaps in campsite availability:

ϐϐ Work to conserve and provide camping in the town of Lemington ϐϐ Initiate conversations with property owners near Canaan where informal campsites already exist about establishing a formal campsites and a protocol for monitoring and maintenance ϐϐ Establish a campsite near Guildhall, VT ϐϐ Establish a campsite in the Nine Island region Collaborative Planning

The VRC must be mindful of the work that has gone into establishing the foundation for the Con- necticut River Paddler's Trail, and should work with these organization as it moves forward with its efforts on the Connecticut River. The Connecticut River Working Group currently serves as the primary network of individuals and organizations actively involved with collaborative planning around paddler recreation for the northern sections of the Connecticut, and the UVLT has laid the ground- work for stewardship in the lower sections. Next steps for the VRC could include:

ϐϐ Share the results of this assessment with the Connecticut River Working Group, the Upper Valley Land Trust, as well as other relevant organizations and individuals ϐϐ Hold a meeting or conference call to discuss the results of this assessment, the VRC's next steps, and to obtain updates from other organizations about their efforts ϐϐ Become an active member of the Connecticut River Working Group ϐϐ Create and share with pertinent organizations an online database of campsites, access points, signage, land managers and volunteers, and stewardship needs

Public Access and Signage Public access is largely sufficient through much of the Upper Connecticut River. Efforts to develop new access points should be considered less important than those that improve signage and reduce

29 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

erosion at existing access points. There are several different types of signage pos- FIGURE 16: CANAAN RIVER ACCESS SIGNAGE sible at access points, from large, changeable displays to simple metal, stand alone signs. For example, the NFCT works with local committees to develop a set of images and text for large interpreta- tive displays. Their kiosks also include river maps. The State of Vermont, on the other hand, relies on bulletin-board displays. It is worth thinking carefully and collaboratively about what make sense for the Connecticut River Paddler's Trail, and how effective and costly the different types of signs are. Next steps to improve access and signage could include:

ϐϐ Complete a comprehensive signage inventory for all public access points along the Upper Connecticut River, identifying owners, existing signs, and stewardship needs. ϐϐ Work with the Connecticut River Working Group, the Connecticut River Byway program, NH State Fish and Game, and other organizations to develop more uniform and profes- sional signage at public launches, beginning in Canaan (Figure 16) and Arlin Brook ϐϐ Work with the NFCT or NorthWoods Stewardship Center to install erosion control measures at the Wyoming Dam portage ϐϐ Improve access at the Mount Orne covered bridge Branding Paddler trails, such as the Northern Forest Canoe Trail and the Maine Island Trail, are effective tools for both helping communities enhance their water resources and for attracting new visitors to a region. Branding the Upper Connecticut River Canoe Trail is as much an effort in shaping public perception as it is in completing tangible projects. To brand the paddler's trail, the VRC could:

ϐϐ Create a website to serve as the central location for visitors seeking to find information on paddling the Connecticut River in Vermont and New Hampshire ϐϐ Establish a phone number and email address for inquiries from both visitors seeking information about paddling opportunities and landowners with concerns or new campsite development options ϐϐ Provide press releases and events to promote the trail in the media and in local communities ϐϐ Conduct fundraising efforts to support the further development and management of the paddler's trail ϐϐ Unify these efforts by developing a series of both printed and online maps for visitors ϐϐ Provide a mechanism for river enthusiasts to become supporters of the trail through finan-

30 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

cial donations and volunteer work trips

Stewardship The development of new campsites and improved access points is a commitment to long term stewardship of these lands. Several sites have been established on private lands, yet are not currently maintained. Regular stewardship is essential for the long term success of the campsite system. To aid in current stewardship activities, the VRC could:

ϐϐ Work with Connecticut River Working Group, the NFCT, the UVLT and other partner organizations to create a shared database of volunteers who monitor access points and campsites ϐϐ Establish annual “work trips” to construct new campsites and maintain existing ones, with assistance from the NFCT stewardship interns, the NorthWoods Stewardship Center, and the UVLT.

Staffing Coordinating these efforts will require the commitment of staff resources. Creating a part-time position to oversee these tasks would help to ensure their long-term success. Dedicated fundraising events, and support from various state and federal agencies, foundations, and partner organizations could provide the funds to support this staffing need. As New England’s longest waterway, with consistently navigable waters and few trying rapids or long portages, the Connecticut River is particularly well-suited for multi-day paddling adventures. Howev- er, the predominance of private lands, and the river's linear nature (which cuts across organizational and jurisdictional boundaries), has largely hindered progress toward the long sought after goal of a contiguous paddler's trail. The VRC is well suited to spearhead conservation actions which close the gaps in camping facilities in the river's northern section. In addition, the organization has the opportunity to take a leadership role in collaborating with other partners to create an official Connecticut River Paddler's Trail, which would, in turn, help facilitiate coordinated stewardship of this important recreational resource for generations to come.

FIGURE 17: OLD RAILROAD TRESTLE NEAR MAIDSTONE

31 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

Appendix A: Northern Connecticut River Primitive Campsites and Access Meeting Notes

Emerson Outdoor Outfitters; Thursday, June 1, 2006, Groveton, NH The purpose of this meeting was to bring together landowners, public officials, river organizations, local businesses, and the public to discuss current usage of the river for recreational purposes with a focus on primitive camping and cartop boat access points. The attendees were divided into two groups with a facilitator and recorder for each. Each group discussed the three questions presented below and then the groups came together to develop a joint vision of future uses of the river for camping and access. The responses to the three questions for each group have been combined and are presented below.

1. What is or is not working with current uses of the river? Works:

ϐϐ The discharge at the Groveton Mill is OK. ϐϐ The recreational use of the river is still low impact. ϐϐ The paddlers using the river above Maidstone are well-behaved. ϐϐ The Connecticut River has more to offer fishermen than any other water in Vermont and New Hampshire. There are no enforcement problems. It is open to catch and release. ϐϐ Agencies are trying to direct campers to public land. ϐϐ The river has more to offer than people are using it for now. ϐϐ Many people are learning to leave no trace. ϐϐ The Vickie Bunnell Park is accessible from the river for camping, may have a public picnic area in the future. ϐϐ Commercial fishing groups are crowding local fishing holes. ϐϐ Generally people leave sites clean. Does Not Work:

ϐϐ Campers don’t always ask permission. ϐϐ There is not much control over recreational uses of the river. ϐϐ There is a disregard of landowners, including: ϐϐ People do not realize that most of the land is private not public ϐϐ Crop destruction ϐϐ Removing barriers and driving autos through hay ϐϐ Trash, beer cans, tent stakes and other metals are left behind (campers should use plastic tent stakes to prevent harm to cows) ϐϐ Damage to riparian buffers that have been installed by farmers due to use for firewood.

32 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

ϐϐ People do not understand that farmers depend on the crops that grow in the fields. ϐϐ People want to drive to sites, not walk. ϐϐ State has been slow with installing river access points. ϐϐ Access is needed between Guildhall and Maidstone bridge. ϐϐ There is a lack of information on the number of people that are using the river, where they are staying and for how long. ϐϐ People leave stuff behind while fishing. ϐϐ Need more formal access points. What may not work in the future and why? ϐϐ The landowner could underestimate the impact of being identified as a campsite. ϐϐ Campsite deals must be solid. ϐϐ Abuse of private land cannot continue. ϐϐ The future of the river farms is uncertain. ϐϐ Conflicting activities (for example fishing and paddling). ϐϐ A culture clash could develop between visitors and locals with the potential for the loss of local control of decisions and the local culture. ϐϐ If there is an increase in visitor traffic and campsites, a problem with trash and sewage could develop. ϐϐ Will conservation easements prevent or provide campsites? ϐϐ The river has a capacity limit that is currently unknown. ϐϐ Commercialization could put too much traffic on the river. May need mandatory access points and permits for campsites. ϐϐ Need to set ground rules before the crowds come. If groups start camping in a place others will follow. ϐϐ Need an adequate number of access sites. ϐϐ Limiting group size is a good idea but must have a manager – very cumbersome. ϐϐ If sites are kept small it will naturally limit group size. ϐϐ People want to do the right thing; they just don’t always know what the right thing is. ϐϐ Established sites could become party sites. What is your vision of campsites and access points on the river? ϐϐ It is asking a lot of private landowners ϐϐ Need public access and campsites or private sites that are managed by a responsible organization to remove stress from private landowners. ϐϐ A model could be the volunteers on the St. Croix River, a friends group. ϐϐ A quiet experience, little changed from today’s river, not like the Androscoggin.

33 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

ϐϐ The less regulation the better as long as everything is OK. ϐϐ Need access points for boats. ϐϐ Would like to protect more shoreline for traditional walking public. ϐϐ Select access points and campsites that do not conflict with wildlife and hunting activities. ϐϐ Explain local heritage to visitors. ϐϐ Restrict ATV’s. ϐϐ There should be a parking lot at Fort Hill. ϐϐ Consider compensation or a lease for public facilities, provide some benefit to the landowner. ϐϐ Announce dam openings. ϐϐ Be sure visitors find heritage and “etiquette” message in many places, especially at access points. ϐϐ Marked campsites that are accessible only from the river. Each town could identify sites. ϐϐ Need to encourage recreation as other jobs are going out. ϐϐ Have a section in guide books for “behaviors” (tent stakes, traps (cows), hay). ϐϐ Strong educational component that includes signage at access points, emergency information, and inform public safety personnel about site locations. ϐϐ Not unhappy with the way people use land now, would host a campsite if a group establish- es and manages the site and accepts liability (must clarify liability of the landowner if they establish a site and do not charge user fees). ϐϐ Designated campsites only that are mapped so users know where to find them. ϐϐ Keep them low impact – no power, 3 tent sites maximum, optional to have fire pits, use a box over a pit for solid waste and otherwise campers should use the woods, remove the box and fill in the hole in fall and dig new hole for the box in the spring. ϐϐ Non-motorized access points developed with the Vermont Agency of Transportation. Their program includes provisions for the state to take liability when the landowner agrees to allow access. ϐϐ Have a series of access points that give people with different needs options for length of time on the river. ϐϐ Maintain a continuous dialogue with landowners and towns. ϐϐ Commercial businesses have changed the nature of river use and should have to pay to support the access points and cover costs of their impact. ϐϐ Access should be available by car at some sites. ϐϐ There should be some control of commercial use. ϐϐ Education should include the history of the river. ϐϐ Access points should be for non-motorized boats. Attendees: Bill McMaster, Adair Mulligan, Sam Stoddard, Louis Bushey, Sherry Belknap, Jean

34 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

Dedam, Bill Johnson, Brian Emerson, Louis Lamaroux, Bill Schomburg, Steve Russo, Roger Irwin, Ruby Wallace, Bill Remick, Melinda Kennett, Rick Potvin, Will Staats

Appendix B: Upper Valley Land Trust Campsite Monitoring Checklist A. Opening Campsites for the Season ϐϐ Contact the landowner. ϐϐ Clean any winter debris from the site. Prune, rake, and seed as necessary. ϐϐ Keep your eyes open for poison ivy and purple loosestrife. ϐϐ Establish privy in a new location or ensure that current location is adequate. ϐϐ Make sure that there is adequate signage to the privy. ϐϐ Replace other signs, as necessary. Ensure visibility of the target sign. ϐϐ Re-supply registration box with a register, pen, donation envelopes. Be sure that the campsite name is on the register. Write the day the campsite was opened and the day the register was installed. ϐϐ Set up picnic table (if there is one) in an area that is appropriate for a large amount of use. ϐϐ If present, clean and repair the fire ring. If more than one fire ring, remove it. ϐϐ Check the landing and perform any necessary work, or make plans for a follow-up visit. ϐϐ Complete a Monitoring Report, noting that the visit was a campsite opening. B. Monitoring Visits During the Season ϐϐ Check the site, and clean as necessary. ϐϐ Replace any missing or damaged signs. Ensure visibility of the target sign. ϐϐ Check the register box and replace any missing items (book, pencil, donation envelopes). ϐϐ Go through the register and attempt to count the number of groups, day users, and overnight campers who have used the campsite since the last monitoring visit. ϐϐ Record the use information obtained above on the Monitoring Report. You will probably have to estimate the numbers to the best of your ability, and note this on the form. ϐϐ Clearly note in the register the date of your monitoring visit, and where your count ended so that future monitors do not re-count the same campsite users. ϐϐ Record any noteworthy register comments on the Monitoring Report, and pass along relevant information (based on these comments) to the campsite manager. ϐϐ Complete a Monitoring Report and promptly mail it. C. Closing Campsites for the Season ϐϐ Clean the entire site.

35 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

ϐϐ Re-seed any areas that need it. ϐϐ Fill the privy pit. ϐϐ In campsites that might flood, remove the privy and secure it above the high water level. ϐϐ If present, clean the fire ring. ϐϐ Secure the picnic table and any other equipment from Spring Flood conditions. ϐϐ Check signs and note those that will need replacing in the spring. ϐϐ Collect the register book, write the date the campsite was closed, and send it to the Camp- site Coordinator with the monitoring report. ϐϐ Check with the landowner and report any concerns. ϐϐ Complete a Monitoring Report, note that the visit was a campsite closing.

Appendix C: Comprehensive List of Upper Connecticut River Campsites and Access Points

TABLE 3: UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER CAMPSITES AND ACCESS POINTS River Owner or manager Site Name Town Type Mile (if known) Canaan to West Stewartstown 373 Canaan, VT Access Point Town Of Canaan Bridge Access 371 Informal campsite Canaan, VT Informal Campsite Private landowner NH State Fish and 366 Arlin Brook Access Colebrook, NH Access Point Game 363 Colebrook Bridge St. Access Colebrook, NH Access Point 361.5 Lemington Campsite (Potential) Lemington, VT Potential Campsite Private landowner 360 Columbia Campsite Columbia, NH Campsite Town of Columbia 359 Columbia Covered Bridge Columbia, NH Access Point 354 Plum Creek Public Access Columbia, NH Potential Access Point State of Vermont 351.5 Lyman Falls - NH Side (Potential) Columbia, NH Potential Campsite Private landowner Vermont 351.5 Lyman Falls Bloomfield, VT Campsite Department of Forest and Parks 351.5 Lyman Falls - NH Side Columbia, NH Access Point 349 Nulhegan Campsite Bloomfield, VT Campsite State of Vermont Vermont 349 Debanville Landing Bloomfield, VT Access Point Department of Forest and Parks Town of N. 349 N. Stratford Access North Stratford, NH Access Point Stratford 342 NFCT Railroad Trestle Brunswick, VT Campsite NFCT Potential Campsite or 340.5 Russo Farm Maidstone, VT Private landowner Access Point 338.5 Maidstone Bridge Startford, NH Access Point 337.5 Maidstone Bends Maidstone, VT Campsite NFCT ? Meadowsend Easement Maidstone, VT Potential Access Point Vermont Land Trust Wyoming Dam Portage and Vermont Agency of 326 Guildhall, VT Access Point Access Transportation

36 324 Silver Allen Parcel Guildhall, VT Potential Access Point Private landowner 320.5 Guildhall Campsite Guildhall, VT Potential Campsite Private landowner 315.5 US 2 Bridge St. Campground Lancaster, NH Campsite Private landowner 315.5 US 2 Bridge Access Lancaster, NH Access Point 308.5 Mount Orne Campsite Lancaster, NH Potential Campsite 308.5 Mount Orne Covered Bridge Lancaster, NH Potential Access Point 305 John's River Ramp Dalton, NH Access Point TransCanada Hydro 302.5 Gilman Dam Portage Gilman, NH Campsite Northeast 301 Gilman Boat Launch Gilman, NH Access Point 295 North Littleton Boat Launch North Littleton, NH Access Point 292.5 Dodge Hill Boat Launch Littleton, NH Access Point 292.5 Waterford Boat Launch Waterford, VT Access Point 291 Pattenville Boat Launch Littleton, NH Access Point 290 Pine Island Boat Launch: Littleton, NH Access Point TransCanada Hydro 289 Moore Dam Portage (VT) Lower Waterford, VT Access Point Northeast TransCanada Hydro 289 Moore Dam Portage (NH) Littleton, NH Access Point Northeast TransCanada Hydro 288 Waterford Bridge Boat Laucnh Littleton, NH Access Point Northeast TransCanada Hydro 283 Pine Grove Boat Launch Barnet, VT Access Point Northeast Comerford Dam - Reservoir TransCanada Hydro 282.5 Monroe, NH Access Point Access Northeast Comerford Dam - Downstream TransCanada Hydro 282.5 Monroe, NH Access Point Access Northeast 281 Passumpsic River Access East Barnet, VT Access Point TransCanada Hydro 280 Nine Islands East Barnet, VT Potential Campsite Northeast 278.5 Barnet-Monroe Bridge Access Monroe, NH Access Point 277.5 Gilmore Farm McIndoe Falls, VT Potential Access Point Private landowner TransCanada Hydro 276 McIndoe Falls Portage Monroe, NH Access Point Northeast 273.5 Dodge Falls Campground Bath, NH Campsite Essex Hydro 273 Fiddlehead Island East Ryegate, VT Former UVLT Campsite Ryegate Dame Portage and 272 Bath, NH Access Point Access Point 268.5 Narrows Island Woodsville, NH Informal Campsite CRWC 268 Woodsville Access Woodsville, NH Access Point 267.5 Woodsville Island Woodsvile, NH Potential Campsite Private landowner Grafton County/ 265.5 Howard Island Campground Woodsville, NH Campsite UVLT 265 Knoxland Cartop Boat Lauch Knoxland, VT Access Point UVLT 262 Horse Meadow North Haverhill, VT Former UVLT Campsite UVLT 259.5 Harkdale Farm Campsite Newbury, VT Campsite UVLT 257.5 Newbury-Haverhill Bridge Access Newbury, VT Access Point VT Fish and Game 255 Bedell Bridge State Park Haverhill, NH Access Point State of NH 254 Vaughan Meadow Campsite Newbury, VT Campsite UVLT Bradford 248 Bugbee Landing Campsite Bradford, VT Campsite Elementary School 248 Bugbee Landing Access Point Bradford, VT Access Point Private landowner Piermont 245 Underhill Campsite Newbury, VT Campsite Conservation Commission 239 Pastures Campground Orford, NH Campsite Private landowner 239 Orford Boat Landing Orford, NH Access Point Town of Orford 236.5 Birch Meadow Campsite Ely, VT Campsite UVLT 234 Roaring Brook Campsite Ely, VT Campsite UVLT UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

232.5 North Thetford Landing Thetford, VT Access Point Vermont State 230 Esther Salmi Campsite East Thetford, VT Former UVLT Campsite Private landowner Lyme, NH 228 Hewes Brook Boat Launch Lyme, NH Access Point Conservation Commission 225 Ompompanoosuc Launch Pompanoosuc, VT Access Point State of VT 221.5 Lebanon Public Boat Launch Lebanon, NH Access Point Darmouth College 218.5 Ledyard Canoe Club Hanover, NH Access Point Outing Club TransCanada Hydro 217.5 Gilman Island Hanover, NH Campsite Northeast TransCanada Hydro 216.5 Wilder Picnic Area Hartford, VT Access Point Northeast TransCanada Hydro 216 Wilder Dam Boat Launch Hartford, VT Access Point Northeast 216 East Wilder Boat Launch Lebanon, NH Access Point City of Lebanon TransCanada Hydro 215.5 Wilder Dam Portage Lebanon, NH Access Point Northeast 215 Lebanon Potential Campsite Lebanon, NH Campsite Private landowner 214 Lyman Point Park Launch Hartford Township, VT Access Point Hartford Township NH State Fish and 210 Blood's Brook Launch Lebanon, NH Access Point Game 208 Burnap Island Campsite Plainfield, NH Campsite UVLT 208 Ottauquechee Launch North Hartland, VT Access Point 205 Sumner Falls Portage Hartland, VT. Access Point Burnham Meadow Group 201 Windsor, VT Campsite UVLT Campsite 199 Cornish Boat Landing Cornish, VT Access Point Vermont 192.5 Wilgus State Park Campground Ascutney, VT Campsite Department of Forest and Parks Vermont 192.5 Wilgus State Park Access Ascutney, VT Access Point Department of Forest and Parks 189 Weathersfield Bow Weathersfield Bow, VT Former Campsite UVLT 189 Weathersfield Bow Weathersfield Bow, VT Potential Access Point UVLT 189 Ashley Ferry State Park Claremont, NH Access Point State of NH 188 Hubbard Island Charlestown, NH Potential Campsite UVLT Student 185.5 SCA Campsite Charlestown, NH Campsite Conservation Association TransCanada Hydro 181 Hoyt's Landing Springfield, VT Access Point Northeast 180.5 Patch Park Charlestown, NH Access Point TransCanada Hydro 178.5 Charlestown Lower Landing Charlestown, NH Access Point Northeast Herrick's Cove Picnic Area ad TransCanada Hydro 174 Rockingham, VT Access Point Boat Launch Northeast South Charlestown, TransCanada Hydro 173 Lower Meadow Campground Campsite NH Northeast 171 Pine Street Boat Launch North Walpole, NH Access Point 166.5 Connecticut River Car-Top Access Walpole, NH Access Point 159 Windyhurst Campsite Walpole, NH Former Campsite Private landowner Vermont Fish and 153.5 Dummerston Landing Dummerston, VT Access Point Game

38 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

153.5 Putney Landing Putney, VT Access Point Town of Putney Chesterfield River Road Boat 150 Chesterfield, VT Access Point Access 147 Old Ferry Road Boat Access Brattleboro, VT Access Point 144.5 Retreat Meadows Brattleboro, VT Access Point 143.5 Hinsdale Access Hinsdale, VT Access Point 142 Wantastiquet Campsite Brattleboro, VT Campsite TransCanada 142 Broad Brook Brattleboro, VT Access Point 138 Stebbin's Island Campsite Vernon, VT Campsite TransCanada

Appendix D: Example Stewardship Signage

This signage content was provided by the National Park Service's Rivers and Trails Program, and is adapted from those used by the Upper Valley Land Trust and the Maine Island Trail. The Park Service suggests that whenever possible, positive wording is used to encourage individuals to follow the guidelines (as opposed to mandating that they follow hard and fast rules).

Basic Guidelines for Safe and Low Impact Camping on the Connecticut River

ϐϐ Before you leave, always inform someone staying behind of your anticipated itinerary and time of return.Carry in - carry out. Carry out everything that you brought in, and leave each campsite in a better condition than you found it. Carry sealable, plastic storage bags for "wet" items that you need to dispose of. ϐϐ Learn low impact camping skills and ways to minimize your damage to the river, the campsites and their natural resources. For information on Leave No Trace ("LNT") camping practices, or to obtain LNT literature, visit the LNT Website, , or call 1-800- 332-4100. ϐϐ Use a portable stove for cooking. Fires are forbidden at some campsites. ϐϐ Never cut live wood. ϐϐ Carry an adequate supply of your own water, as it is unsafe to drink untreated river water. ϐϐ Swimming is allowed, but please do not wash or bathe in or near (within 75 feet of) the river. ϐϐ To help us monitor use, please complete the campsite register at each site you use and inform us of the number in your group. Also report any needed maintenance to the listed campsite manager or the Upper Valley Land Trust whenever possible. ϐϐ If you must camp on land that is not designated as part of the Connecticut River Primitive Campsite system, always attempt to ask the landowner's permission first. ϐϐ Be aware that noise carries easily on the river, and allow all river users and surrounding landowners to enjoy the quiet and solitude they desire. Leave your radio at home. ϐϐ Note that water levels can sometimes fluctuate several feet during the course of any day or

39 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

night. Always secure your boat; don't simply "beach" it. ϐϐ As you enjoy this campsite system, stop a moment to thank the many local volunteers who take care of them, and remember, good stewardship of these special places depends on you. ϐϐ Respect these places and minimize your impact on the river and its shorelands. ϐϐ Watch where you walk. If a path has already formed, please stay on it to minimize your impact to the surrounding vegetation. Be on the lookout for poison ivy and other harmful plants or animals. ϐϐ Don't forget a first aid/survival kit. Some important items to include are: lip balm, sun- screen, bug repellent, aspirin, medical items, water purification tablets, pocket knife, com- pass, whistle, fire starter, needle and thread, wire, pins, and duct tape. ϐϐ Do not rely on the Primitive Campsite Guide for river navigation. Boaters should seek other sources for safety information and local river conditions (i.e., locations of dams, portages and other river hazards).Each boat must carry a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device for each person. Wear this life vest at all times while on the water.

Connecticut River Primitive Campsites Signage

Welcome to [campsite name]. This campsite is a part of the Connecticut River Primitive Campsite System that the Upper Valley Land Trust established in 1992. Many of these campsites are provided for the enjoyment of the public at no cost through the generosity of private landowners. It is maintained by [manager]. However, the maintenance and ability of the system to exist in the future depends on public contributions and your assistance with good stewardship. To minimize your impact on the river, its shorelands and islands; and to ensure the quality of your recreational experience, and its future availability to others, please follow these guidelines:

ϐϐ Use designated campsites. If you wish to camp on land that is not designated as a Con- necticut River Primitive Campsite (i.e., it does not have a blue on yellow target sign like this one does), please ask the landowner's permission to do so. ϐϐ Camping capacity = [#]. [Campsite name] accommodates [#] party, [#] persons maximum. A party is one or more persons traveling together. The camping capacity is the recommended maximum for a campsite. Please respect it. The condition of the shoreland and islands, and the general visitor experience, will be better protected if use levels are less than the recommended maximum. If the campsite is full to capacity when you arrive and there is ample time for safe travel, please consider paddling to nearby [campsite name], [#] miles downriver. If you must stay here, please use existing campsites and do not establish or clear new sites. ϐϐ Noise. Be considerate of other visitors. Preserve the peace and quiet. Noise carries easily on the River. Enjoy the solitude and keep a low profile. Leave your radio at home. ϐϐ Secure your boat. Note that water levels can sometimes fluctuate several feet during the course of any day or night. Always secure your boat beyond just "beaching" it. ϐϐ Low impact camping. Learn low impact camping skills such as "carry in-carry out". Carry out everything that you brought in, and leave each campsite in a better condition than you

40 UPPER CONNECTICUT RIVER WATER TRAIL STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

found it. ϐϐ Watch where you walk. Protect the shoreland vegetation and the fragile soils it depends on by traveling on existing paths and hard surfaces. Do not bushwhack through dense vegetation or trample mosses and lichens. In addition, be on the lookout for poison ivy. ϐϐ Dispose of human waste properly. Ideally, pack out all solid human waste and toilet paper and dispose of it properly. At most campsites, a privy is available if you need it. ϐϐ Please use a portable stove for cooking. Campfires are discouraged and completely forbidden at some sites because of the high risk of fire spreading due to changeable winds, root systems, flammable soils, and lack of services. If you must build a campfire (in a site where it is permitted or for emergency purposes) please keep it small and well controlled. Use your own or dead wood; do not cut live trees. ϐϐ Respect wildlife. Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not disturb nesting birds. ϐϐ Wash away from the river. Please do so at least 75 feet from the River. ϐϐ Bring your own water. It is unsafe to drink untreated water from the River. ϐϐ Sign our register. Help us monitor usage by leaving a note in the campsite register. Please let us know how many individuals are in your group and whether you are using this campsite for the day or overnight. Also, report any needed maintenance to the listed campsite manager or the Upper Valley Land Trust whenever possible.

Remember, good stewardship of these special places depends on you. Please respect these special places, and leave each campsite in better condition than you found it. Thank you!

We welcome your financial and volunteer stewardship support of the Connecticut River Primitive Campsites. Please let us know if you would like to help out!

[Campsite Manager's Contact Information]