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 Ted Graham and Marcy Tripp who monitor as a team!
How long have you volunteered for PLC and how did you hear about the opportunity?
About 10 years. I moved to Francestown in 2011, joined the board of the Francestown Land Trust and became aware of PLC almost immediately. A little later, I joined the PLC board and asked about volunteer opportunities which led to our becoming monitors. Paula Bellemore, who was then the Executive Director, recommended a PLC conservation easement in Francestown.
What property/properties do you monitor?
The Robinson Property that straddles the South Branch of the Piscataquog in Francestown.
What is your favorite part of being a property monitor?
Visiting the site each year and learning about the family that donated the easement, their motivation, and their commitment to conservation.
What is the biggest challenge you have faced as a property monitor?
This property is pretty straightforward, but it’s on both sides of the river. Locating the boundary markers is perhaps the biggest challenge.
What piece of advice would you give to someone monitoring a conservation easement for the first time?
Take a training course before setting out and go out with someone who knows the property already. In our case, we went out the first time with the monitor that had monitored the site for several years. Get to know the owner and meet them at the site if possible. Research the easement and its history. Take your camera!
What five songs would you put on your PLC property monitoring playlist?
There are many and this list certainly dates me. They’re not in any distinct order.
- Big Yellow Taxi – Joni Mitchell (“They paved paradise and put up a parking lot.” (1970)
- Don’t Go Near the Water – Beach Boys (1971)
- Pollution – Tom Lehrer (1962)
- Mother Earth – Tom Rush (1972)
- La Mer – Charles Trenet (1945); French
What’s the most unexpected or interesting thing you have encountered as a property monitor?
Hearing the property owner’s voice, asking “Can I help you?” As ever, I told them when I’d be coming. However, as I approached their house, they had installed a security camera with an intercom. They were at their home in Maine, and, after I got over being startled, we had a nice chat. Totally unexpected.
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!
