On July 1, SELT expanded the Ayers to Isinglass Preserve in Barrington with the conservation and acquisition of 381 acres along the western shore of Ayers Pond. This exciting project came to fruition through partnership with the Bedford family, which has deep roots in Barrington and Strafford, tracing their lineage to the 19th century.
The Bedfords’ land is a gem! From great blue heron nests, spotted salamanders in the numerous vernal pools, and wetland areas critical to migratory birds and waterfowl, the Ayers to Isinglass Preserve protects the surrounding forest and water quality of Ayers Pond. Its diverse topography features small caves, rock crevices, and large boulder areas important to wildlife such as bear, moose, deer, small mammals, and roosting bats.
This special place was protected thanks to the generosity of more than 35 families, the Ayers Lake Association NH, and support from public and private partners, including Barrington, NH – Town Government, LCHIP, Land and Community Heritage Investment Program, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service North American Wetlands Conservation Act, the State Conservation Committee – NH Moose Plate Program, New Hampshire Charitable Foundation– Great Bay 2030, Great Bay Resource Protection Partnership, and the Bafflin Foundation. We are especially grateful for the generosity of the Bedford family, who sold their land at a bargain sale price.
