Forest Society Celebrates its 200th Conserved Forest with the Bean Forest in Farmington

The Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests (Forest Society) announced the establishment of its 200th forest conservation area, the Bean Forest in Farmington. 

Located on Meeting House Hill Road in Farmington, the 280-acre Bean Forest was donated to the Forest Society through a bequest by longtime member, Dorothy (Dottie) Bean. In accordance with her wishes, the historic house, barns, and 16 acres were subdivided and sold to a private buyer. The remaining 280 acres will be forever protected as the Forest Society’s 200th property, the Bean Forest. The property contains both forests and fields, with scenic views of Chesley Mountain to the west and the Moose Mountains to the north. 

In keeping with Dottie’s wishes, the proceeds of the sale of the historic homestead and barns has funded an endowment, the income from which will permanently support stewardship activities at the Bean Forest, including trail maintenance, land management, and payment of taxes. 

“Dottie Bean was a dear friend to the Forest Society. She was always the first to register to attend our Annual Meetings, and she had a very clear vision for the land she dearly loved,” states Jack Savage, president of the Forest Society. “The Bean Forest is a certified Tree Farm, and we look forward to continuing its sustainable management, while managing wildlife habitat, and the popular hiking trails that Dottie enjoyed walking and sharing with others. This is a fitting property to celebrate as our 200th conserved forest, as it embodies so many of the qualities the Forest Society champions across the state.” 

To commemorate the milestone of protecting 200 forests, now encompassing nearly 67,000 acres, the Forest Society will host a celebration and walk on Sunday, July 13 at the Bean Forest on Meetinghouse Hill Road in Farmington. This event is free and open to the public, but we encourage registration. Look for Forest Society signs to guide parking.