This fall, the Forest Society will begin work on an important accessibility project at the Merrimack River Outdoor Education & Conservation Area in Concord. The goal is to make a section of the Les Clark Nature Trail more inclusive and welcoming for all visitors—especially those using wheelchairs, strollers, or other mobility devices. The project will temporarily close the trail beginning October 15, but the result will be a safer, smoother, and more accessible way to experience the beauty of the Merrimack River floodplain.
Please refer to the FAQ below for full project details, timelines, and how the Forest Society is protecting water quality and wildlife during construction.
What work are you planning on the Merrimack River floodplain trail, and why?
The Merrimack River Trail Accessibility Improvement Project will upgrade a section of the Les Clark Nature Trail (the main trail network on the Merrimack River Outdoor Education & Conservation Area or floodplain property) to federal accessibility standards - so that people in wheelchairs, using other mobility devices, or with other disabilities will be able to more easily access and enjoy the property. The section of trail spanning the parking area on Portsmouth Street to just in front of the kiosk near the river (approximately 0.25 mi) will be re-surfaced with compacted crushed stone to create a more uniform and durable treadway for pedestrians, strollers, and those using mobility devices. Several benches will also be installed in viewing distance of Mill Brook and the Merrimack River, so that trail users can rest and enjoy the scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Will the trail be closed, and for how long?
Since there is only one entrance to the MROECA trail system where construction will be occurring, the entire trail system will be closed for the duration of this construction project. Construction is expected to start on October 15th, 2025 and last about four to six weeks before reopening. We ask that hikers and visitors find alternative walking spots during this time to ensure everyone’s safety during construction. There will be operators delivering material and operating mechanized equipment on the trail for the duration of construction, which will be unsafe for pedestrians and dogs.
How is this project being funded?
This project is being funded by private donations, as well as through a Recreational Trails Program (RTP) grant. If you would like to donate to stewardship and community educational programs on the Merrimack floodplain property, we welcome your contribution! Donations can be made online HERE.
How will water quality, habitat, and wildlife be protected during construction?
The Forest Society will follow best management practices for environmental protection during construction as outlined in the State of NH’s Best Management Practices for Erosion Control During Trail Maintenance and Construction. This will include erosion control measures to prevent any runoff into Mill Brook or the Merrimack River. The timing of construction (after October 15) has been deliberately chosen to have the least impact on wildlife, as it is outside of breeding and nesting seasons. We also do not plan to cut any additional trees for this project, and other than the new turn-around/seating area near the river kiosk, the entire project will be within the line of the existing trail. All required permits from the State and City of Concord have been secured for this project.
What will be different for visitors after this construction project is done?
The trail system on the MROECA floodplain will remain in the same location as previously, but users will have an even and compact pathway without rocks and roots from the parking area to the Merrimack River. A small turn-around area near the river kiosk will allow for wheelchairs and mobility devices to easily maneuver, and there will be some additional seating (benches) in several areas. The remainder of the two-mile trail system will remain unchanged.
We ask that visitors please keep their dogs on leash while on the trail system at the MROECA floodplain and pick up and pack out dog waste. These use guidelines are already in place, but with more people who have mobility challenges using the trail system, it will be more important than ever for dogs to remain close to their owners and the trail to be free of dog waste.
How does this project align with broader conservation and community goals for this property?
The Merrimack River Outdoor Education & Conservation Area has been a destination for Concord-area community members for many decades, thanks to its gentle walking paths, mix of interesting natural communities, beautiful scenery, river access, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Concord elementary school classes visit the floodplain trails every year, with 150-200 students coming to learn about the natural environment. The property is also routinely utilized by classes from NHTI and UNH, as well as for UNH Cooperative Extension programs, and hosts an annual 5K running race hosted by Northeast Delta Dental as well as a walk for animals hosted by Pope Memorial SPCA.
It is the Forest Society’s hope that the accessibility improvements planned for the MROECA trail system will allow a broader segment of the population, including those with disabilities who may have been unable to visit previously, to enjoy the property. We plan to continue to engage the East Concord community on the Merrimack floodplain property with field walks, experiential learning opportunities, and events that celebrate the positive influences that natural spaces can have on our physical and mental well-being. Our goal is to make the property welcoming for all visitors, and we recognize that welcoming and celebrating diversity makes our community healthier and stronger.