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 Sarah Hanninen and Nancy Stehno, who monitor as a team!
How long have you volunteered for PLC and how did you hear about the opportunity?
Sarah: This is my first year volunteering for PLC. I heard about the opportunity when I went through the NH Natural Resources Stewards (NRS) Program in Fall 2020.
Nancy: I started volunteering with PLC when they first developed the “Walk in the Woods” outings program about a decade ago. I helped develop and lead walks. I continue to co-lead the ever popular “Paddle on the Pond” event on Deering Lake. (Pre-Covid)
I learned about monitoring through the PLC newsletter and when I walked a property with a friend.
What property/properties do you monitor?
The Sullivan and Jennings easements, both in Goffstown
What is your favorite part of being a property monitor?
Sarah: It’s a great excuse for a walk in the woods! I get to appreciate all the natural systems interacting with each other with my fellow NRS graduate, Nancy. Plus, you get a little thrill when you find a survey pin or blaze indicating the property line. Some are tricky to locate!
Nancy: My favorite part of monitoring is being out in the woods. I enjoy seeing the diverse flora and fauna along the way.
What is the biggest challenge you have faced as a property monitor?
Sarah: So far, the biggest challenge has been getting up to speed on our properties: becoming familiar with the easements and the layout and terrain of the properties themselves.
Nancy: This is my first year as a monitor. I guess the biggest challenge is coordinating the time and date with my co-monitor and then having the weather cooperate!
What piece of advice would you give to someone monitoring a conservation easement for the first time?
Sarah: Team up with a buddy. It’s more fun with a friend.
Nancy: As a first-time monitor, I was thankful for the experienced people who came along with us!
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a property monitor?
Sarah: It feels mutually rewarding. We get to spend the morning walking around beautiful properties while doing a stewardship service for the land and PLC. Plus you make all kinds of fun discoveries along the way.
Nancy: Enjoying the time discovering interesting things with my co-monitor, Sarah Hanninen.
Interested in volunteering with PLC as a property Monitor?
Complete our Volunteer Inquiry Form and PLC’s Stewardship Coordinator Dan Ewald will be in touch soon!
Photos by Sarah Hanninen
