Winchendon, MA – North County Land Trust (NCLT), in partnership with Mount Grace Land Conservation Trust, has embarked on an ambitious campaign to safeguard 200+ acres of forest at the southern reaches of Lake Monomonac. This collaboration, which also involves local residents, aims to raise the final $154,000 needed to reach the total goal of $760,000.
The Millers River, originating from the hills of New Hampshire’s Wapack Range, meanders southward through Winchendon, MA, forming the picturesque 700-acre Lake Monomonac. The forested land surrounding the lake plays a crucial role in maintaining water quality, biodiversity, and the ecological health of the area. Acting as natural sponges, the forests collect rainwater and gradually release it into rivers and lakes. Additionally, the forest soil acts as a filter, removing sediments and other pollutants from the water, ensuring cleaner and healthier water resources at a fraction of the cost of human-made treatment systems.
Preserving this land holds paramount importance for preserving water quality, biodiversity, and scenic beauty. Unfortunately, many development plans have been proposed for the land. This includes proposals to add over 200 camping lots or install ground-mounted industrial solar panels. By protecting this area, the watershed of both Lake Monomonac and White’s Mill Pond, which then flow into Whitney Pond and the Millers River, will also be secured.
Recognizing the interconnectedness between water and the forested lands through which it flows, NCLT and Mount Grace are leading the charge as partners to protect this vital region. The partnership extends to the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game, a local private conservation buyer, town administrators, Winchendon Springs Lake Association, Monomonac Lake Property Owners Association, as well as concerned residents from Winchendon and New Hampshire.
The conservation of this land will establish a connection between the Winchendon Springs Wildlife Management Area and hundreds of acres of forest conserved by the Town of Winchendon. These landscapes are considered crucial habitats by Massachusetts’ Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program, and their preservation will enhance species migration and foster resilience in the face of climate change. 
The goal is to establish a new 200+ acre conservation area with trails that will benefit the entire region, providing opportunities for outdoor recreation and protecting vital wildlife habitats in the Millers River headwaters.
While initial costs have been covered through Mount Grace’s Leigh Youngblood Conservation Opportunity Fund and NCLT Acquisition Funds, the permanent conservation of most of the forested hills, vernal pools, wetlands, and river channels at the south end of Lake Monomonac requires the support of the wider community. NCLT and Mount Grace are united in their commitment to keeping the land accessible for passive recreation and ensuring its continued role as critical wildlife habitat.
Join North County Land Trust in their efforts to protect the entire Monomonac Hill property by contributing to the campaign. Your support will make a lasting impact on the preservation of this precious natural resource and the well-being of the Winchendon community.
For more information or to contribute, click here.