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NH Audubon Backyard Winter Bird Survey  February 13 and 14

This Audubon-sponsored project asks participants to report any bird species visiting their yard or feeders
 over the weekend of February 13 and 14. Details about how to obtain the survey forms and how to count the 
species can be found at: https://nhbirdrecords.org/backyard-winter-bird-survey/
Originally, the census was designed only for cardinals and tufted titmice, but since 1987, it has been expanded
to include all winter bird species. There is no specified length of time that you must watch. You can even  record
the number of squirrels, whether gray or red. The results are posted on the Audubon website as soon as compiled.
There is no charge, but donations are appreciated.

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Land Conservation
(NH Forest Society information)

A conservation easement is a permanent, legally binding agreement between a landowner and a qualified conservation
organization or public agency that restricts use of the land to protect its significant natural features. In NH, this is
authorized by RSA 477: 45-47. The landowner continues to own and manage the land while giving up the right to
engage in certain intensive uses of the property. Allowed uses could include agriculture, forestry, non-commercial
outdoor recreation, wildlife habitat management, and all other uses that are compatible with the conservation goals
for the property, and not specifically prohibited. Some prohibited activities include subdivision and development,
mining and excavating, disturbing wetlands, or disposing of waste. Conservation easements may involve costs for
surveying, assessing, or legal and professional services. Financial benefits to the landowner may include a federal
income tax deduction, a federal estate tax reduction, or reduced local property tax value. A qualified professional can
assist you in answering these financial questions.
For more information about conservation easements, you can contact the Forest Society or the Tilton Conservation Commission.

 

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