Welcome to the Hogback Mountain Conservation Association news and blog page.
10/29/08
HOGBACK WALKS The foliage and weather cooperated on October 18 for our third and final Hogback hike for the season. Over 40 walkers of all ages enjoyed the scenery, fresh air and sunshine, and listened to information imparted by our four nature guides. Enthusiasm was high, with requests for tracking courses this winter, and more hikes next summer.
NEW GRANT Just as exciting was the decision of the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board late last month to award $318,590 to the Hogback Conservation Project. Five members of the Hogback Mountain Conservation Association accompanied Joan Weir of the Vermont Land Trust to Richmond for the board hearing, and waited with baited breath to hear the decision. This grant is a key component in our funding strategy.
FUNDRAISING STATUS We have now raised $1,308,471 towards our project goal of $1.737 million. The funding so far has come from a variety of sources. Grants comprise $479,590, leadership donations total $700,000, the Town of Marlboro appropriated $50,000 at a special town meeting in June, and other donations and pledges total $78,881.
NEXT STEP To make this conservation project possible, we need to raise an addition $428,529 from the community – an ambitious but achievable goal that, if achieved, will protect this land for today and for future generations. We are making plans now to launch a widespread community appeal early next year. If strong support continues, and donors are able to contribute soon, we may be able to achieve some cost savings and complete the project ahead of schedule.
FUTURE NOTICES AND EVENTS If you would like to continue receiving updates on Hogback happenings, please email us a quick note asking to be added to the list. Our email address is hogback1@sover.net. To keep costs down, we try to use email whenever possible, but are happy to use regular mail for those without email access.
Below is a recent photo by Barbara Cole of a moose on the south side of the property.
For more photos of the consrvation area, follow the link below:
www.flickr.com/photos/hogbackmountain