New land protection projects are exciting for PLC and our members, so we share quite a bit of news about the work leading to the completion of a land or conservation easement acquisition.
But what happens after the closing date?
That’s where our volunteer Property Monitors come in! PLC Property Monitors are literally the eyes and ears of the organization. Their good work ensures that every PLC property and conservation easement is monitored each year and protected forever from encroachments or misuse.
They’re an amazing group of dedicated, passionate individuals and we wouldn’t be able to do what we do without them. We want you to Meet the Monitors, get to know them, and learn about the work they do.
In this edition of Meet the Monitors, you’ll meet David Brooks!
How long have you volunteered for PLC? How did you hear about the opportunity?
I started as a monitor seven (I think) years ago on a property that my daughter Rachel had monitored. She worked for the PLC for a year, updating property records for your files. When she moved away, I took over.
What property/properties do you monitor?
I monitor the two separate properties in the Rose Mountain foothills. One is right along a road, the other takes a bit of a hike halfway up Rose Mountain. For a couple of years I also monitored half of an island in the Piscataquog River but I gave up – it was such a pain to get to! Plus it was nothing but Japanese knotweed; it might have been improved by some development.
What is your favorite part of being a property monitor?
It’s gotten to parts of the region that I wouldn’t have seen otherwise. And I got one of those cool hats.
What is the biggest challenge you have faced as a property monitor?
I am terrible at finding my way around in the woods. I use a compass and follow all the rules you learn about cross-country trekking but within 10 minutes I’m walking in circles unable to find the big stone wall that should be here. Thank goodness for GPS or I’d still be wandering around on Rose Mountain somewhere.
What is the most rewarding aspect of being a property monitor?
Finding weird stuff like metal chairs sitting out in the middle of nowhere. I’ve found a couple of those, actually; hopefully not part of some dangerous woodlands ritual. A creek on part of my property is also part of a long-running genetic study on native trout, which is neat.
What piece of advice would you give to someone monitoring a conservation easement for the first time?
Don’t get carried away. Start with a simple easement, not one that has four disjoint properties separated by a bog, a creek and a property lined with “My Dog Will Eat You” signs.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
Be careful: Property monitoring is a gateway drug to outdoor volunteering. You start with a little boundary watching and the next thing you know you’re hauling boulders on a hillside in October rain as part of trail maintenance.
