Two young scientists bought 116 acres in 1997; 25 years later, they protected it for wildlife

Bonk and Trowbridge had planned to conserve the property since they bought it Laura Bonk and Phil Trowbridge bought 116 acres of undeveloped land in Allenstown, New Hampshire, in 1997. The couple were young scientists and outdoor enthusiasts at the time. They recognised the importance of the property, which lies along the northern boundary of Bear Brook State Park. About 25 years later, they placed the entire property under permanent conservation protection to preserve its wetlands, forests, water resources and wildlife habitat.The land, known as Derevya Farms, forms part of the Merrimack River watershed, according to Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests. Its location and natural features make it important for protecting water quality and providing habitat for wildlife. The property also includes frontage along Little Bear Brook, which flows into Bear Brook and the Suncook River. These waterways are tributaries of the Merrimack River watershed.The Bonk-Trowbridge family donated a conservation easement on the property to ensure that its conservation value would be protected permanently. However, the donation did not transfer ownership of the land. The family continues...