George M. Bald: State leadership needed on easement issue

Conservation easements are designed to protect the public interest by ensuring that land remains accessible for recreation and preserves its historical uses and environmental significance. When such easements are funded with public tax dollars, there is a clear expectation that the land will be managed in a way that aligns with the core purposes of the easement. In the case of the Connecticut Lakes Headwaters Trust, that includes logging that follows the best forestry practices, wise recreational uses and access to the land. Anyone acquiring this property would be aware of these requirements prior to closing.

On Oct. 9, 2003, as Commissioner of the former Department of Resources and Economic Development, I had the honor, alongside Gov. Jeanne Shaheen, U.S. Sen. Judd Gregg and others to sign into protection the largest tract of land in New Hampshire’s history. It was a remarkable effort on the part of many state agencies, recreation organizations, federal partners, the local towns, environmental groups and conservation nonprofits. My agency played a key role in this effort as we included Parks and Recreation, Forest and Lands, Travel and Tourism and Economic Development divisions that were affected by the project. We acquired the development rights and established an easement to ensure the property’s future remains consistent with the planned vision and commitments made to all stakeholders.