In the Beginning.....
April 1998
Emerson Brook Forest is bought by a H.C. Haynes, proprietor of a Maine Logging Company.
May 1998
Valerie Piedmont begins negotiating with H.C. Haynes, to purchase and save a portion of the forest from an imminent logging operation.
The logging operation is covered extensively by regional newspapers and widespread public concern mounts.
Valerie raises nearly $5,000 in one weekend and begins a seven month campaign to purchase and save as much of the forest as possible for conservation purposes. The idea of creating a wheelchair accessible nature center emerges and draws public support.
June 1998
Owner/logger, Haynes states his unwillingness to subdivide the parcel targeted for conservation. In addition, there is no provision in town statutes that allows for the subdivision of land locked parcels. It is determined that the land can only be purchased in a "lot line adjustment" annexed to the Piedmont-Fleischmann land holdings. The Monadnock Conservancy and a very enthusiastic Gilsum Conservation Commission play essential roles in the land purchase. The plan is to commit the forested land, once purchased, to a conservation easement under the perpetual stewardship of the Gilsum Conservation Commission.
July 1998
The Gilsum Conservation presents an educational exhibit on the Emerson Brook Forest and the importance of sustainable forestry practices at Gilsum’s Old Home Day.
November 1998
The Gilsum Planning Board approves a technical subdivision of 28.8 acres of Emerson Brook Forest for conservation purposes.
December 1998
Emerson Brook Forest acreage is deeded from H.C. Haynes to Valerie Piedmont.
Financial Data
Land Cost $23,040.00 Settlement Cost 132.32
Legal fees 1,396.00
Surveying Costs 878.00
Total Costs $25,446.32
