New Hampshire Winter Trout Stocking

Brook Trout | Credit: NPS

Trout are popular with ice fishing anglers in New Hampshire. Each fall, the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department (NHFG) stocks trout in streams, rivers, lakes, and ponds to enhance the Granite state's winter ice fishery.

Winter anglers interested in catching trout in New Hampshire can find regulations and places to fish on the NHFG website.

New Hampshire lakes and ponds that were stocked with trout during the fall of 2024 and are open to ice fishing include:

Akers Pond in Errol, Beaver Pond in Woodstock, Bow Lake in Strafford, Cedar Pond in Milan, Big Diamond Pond in Stewartstown (opened January 1, 2025), Higher Ground Pond in Wentworth, Highland Lake in Andover, Hildreth Pond in Warren, Little Dan Hole Pond in Ossipee, Manning Lake in Gilmanton, Martin Meadow Pond in Lancaster, Mascoma Lake in Enfield, Mirror Lake in Woodstock, Newfound Lake in Bristol, Oguntz Lake in Lyman, Pearl Lake in Lisbon, Perch Pond in Lisbon, Pleasant Lake in Deerfield, Streeter Pond in Sugar Hill, Sunapee Lake in Newbury, Tewksbury Pond in Grafton, Webster Lake in Franklin, White Lake in Tamworth, and Winnisquam Lake in Laconia.

In addition to those locations, numerous other New Hampshire waterbodies are open for year-round fishing.

“The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department’s hatcheries stock post-spawn brook and brown trout into selected waterbodies that do not have a closed season before winter,” said Fish and Game’s Inland Fisheries Program Supervisor John Magee. “These fish can range from 2 to 3 pounds each. Numbers, dates, and stocking locations vary annually. I would encourage anglers of all skill levels to take advantage of this season’s stocked opportunities throughout New Hampshire when weather conditions are favorable and once the ice is safe.”

Productive locations to fish include in some of the tailwater fisheries such as the Newfound River, according to Magee. “When water levels are drawn down on larger lakes for the fall, prize-sized fish often drop down below dams, creating opportunities for savvy winter anglers.

New Hampshire free fishing day is January 18.

For more information about ice fishing in New Hampshire, visit www.wildlife.nh.gov.

source: New Hampshire Fish and Game Department

Vineyard Wind Turbine Blade Failure

In July, news of an incident in the Vineyard Wind offshore development project off Nantucket Island surprised residents, mariners, and offshore wind stakeholders. 

On Monday, July 15, 2024, Vineyard Wind, a joint venture between Avangrid and Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners, issued an initial statement regarding an incident involving blade damage on a wind turbine in its offshore energy area

"On Saturday evening, Vineyard Wind experienced blade damage on a wind turbine in its offshore development area. No personnel or third parties were in the vicinity of the turbine at the time, and all employees of Vineyard Wind and its contractors are safe and secure. As part of its permitting, Vineyard Wind has detailed plans to guide its response to incidents such as this. Following those protocols, Vineyard Wind established a safety perimeter, and worked with the U.S. Coast Guard to issue notice to mariners. GE, as the project’s turbine and blade manufacturer and installation contractor, will now be conducting the analysis into the root cause of the incident. As that analysis takes place, Vineyard Wind will continue working with federal, state, tribal, and local stakeholders to ensure the health and safety of its workforce, mariners, and the environment."

On July 17, representatives from Vineyard Wind and General Electric, the turbine manufacturer, attended the Town and County of Nantucket Select Board meeting to provide an update on the recent turbine blade failure and the ongoing debris recovery efforts.

The meeting, held in the Community Room at 4 Fairgrounds Road, also allowed for virtual participation. Over 60 people attended the meeting in person, 170 participated online, and over 1600 people tuned in to watch online.

During the meeting, members of the GE and Vineyard Wind teams responded to questions from the Select Board and the public for over three hours.

Jen Cullen, Vineyard Wind's Senior Manager of Labor Relations & Workforce Development, provided an update during the final minutes of the Select Board meeting. She reported that the integrity of the GE Vernova blade had been compromised, with an increased possibility of it detaching from the turbine.

She also reiterated that a 500-meter safety zone around the turbine has been maintained since Saturday night, with constant monitoring. Cullen further explained that Vineyard Wind has mobilized a response team and observed new debris entering the water. The company is notifying various authorities and communities, including the US Coast Guard, federal and state agencies, and local and tribal partners.

On July 17, the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) issued a statement regarding an incident involving blade damage on a Vineyard Wind offshore turbine:

“Following the July 13, 2024, blade failure incident at Vineyard Wind, BSEE has issued a Suspension Order to Vineyard Wind to cease power production from all its wind turbine generators until it can be determined whether the blade failure affects any other VW turbines. The Suspension Order suspends power production on the lease area and suspends installation of new wind turbine generator construction: Those operations will remain shut down until the suspension is lifted. BSEE has also issued a Preservation Order to safeguard any evidence that may be relevant to determining the cause of the incident.

As of this date, there are no reported injuries or harm to any marine resources or mammals from the incident. BSEE is onsite with Vineyard Wind as investigations are underway. BSEE will conduct an independent assessment to ensure the safety of future offshore renewable energy operations.”

On July 18, Vineyard Wind, issued an update with information about the remaining turbine blade:

"This morning, a significant part of the remaining GE Vernova blade detached from the turbine. Maritime crews were onsite overnight preparing to respond to this development, though current weather conditions create a difficult working environment. Despite these challenging weather conditions, a fleet of vessels remains at sea managing the situation and working to remove bulk debris. We have deployed additional crews to Nantucket Island in anticipation that more debris could wash ashore tonight and tomorrow as we continue to monitor additional coastal communities.

We are staying apprised of GE Vernova’s efforts to manage the situation, including the removal and recovery of the remaining blade attached to the turbine. With public officials, we will continue to keep the islands informed of developments as we work closely with state, federal, local, and tribal partners to respond to this evolving situation, with the safety of our personnel, the public, and the environment as our highest priority.

If debris is found by members of the public, property owners, or local officials, they are advised to immediately contact our reporting hotline: 833-609-5768. Reports of debris can also be sent directly to the cleanup contractor at this link: Recon Survey (NRCC) (arcgis.com)."

The Vineyard Wind project was one of two commercial scale offshore wind projects in U.S. federal waters that were approved in 2021.

According to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) ,the 800-megawatt Vineyard Wind 1 Offshore Wind Energy Project is located approximately 12 nautical miles offshore Martha's Vineyard and 12 nautical miles offshore Nantucket.

sources: Town and County of Nantucket, Vineyard Wind

Related Information

Town and County of Nantucket

USCG Guidance on Navigational Safety In and Around Offshore Renewable Energy Installations

Coastal Communities Issues

Hammonasset Beach State Park in Connecticut

Hammonasset Beach State Park, located in Madison, Connecticut, is a haven for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

As Connecticut's largest shoreline park, it boasts over two miles of sandy beaches where visitors can bask in the sun or take a refreshing swim in the Long Island Sound.

The park is not only a summer hotspot but also a year-round destination with its bustling campground and serene nature preserve.

The name "Hammonasset" means "where we dig holes in the ground," a reference to the area's agricultural past along the Hammonasset River. 

The park offers a variety of activities, from surfcasting and bird watching to biking on the three-mile BURT trail that connects West Beach to Meigs Point.

Cyclists can also enjoy miles of cycling paths, including a connector to the Shoreline Greenway Trail, which is set to extend all the way to Lighthouse Point Park in New Haven.

The park is open 24 hours for camping or fishing from Memorial Day through Columbus Day, with reservations available for its campground. 

Accessibility is a key feature at Hammonasset Beach State Park, with beach wheelchairs available on a first-come-first-served basis and a boardwalk that allows for scenic strolls along the coast. The park is also pet-friendly, and offers picnic areas for family gatherings.

While at the park, visitors can explore local cuisine with a range of nearby restaurants offering everything from New York-style pizza to fresh seafood. The park's proximity to various hotels and attractions makes it an ideal location for a day trip or an extended stay. 

With its rich history, diverse activities, and beautiful natural landscapes, Hammonasset Beach State Park is a jewel in Connecticut's state park system, drawing over one million visitors annually to enjoy swimming, sunbathing, a night under the stars camping, and other experiences.

Common Loon | Credit: USFWS

Hammonasset Beach State Park's diverse habitats make it a premier birdwatching destination.

With its combination of beaches, marshes, grasslands, and wooded areas, the park attracts a wide array of bird species throughout the year, making every visit a unique opportunity to observe birds in their natural setting.

The park's location along the Long Island Sound makes it an important stopover for migratory birds, and it has been recognized as an Important Bird Area by Audubon Connecticut.

Early morning is typically the best time for birdwatching, as many birds are most active during this time. Additionally, the park's birdwatching community is quite active, and joining a guided birdwalk can provide insights into finding and identifying the park's avian residents.

Along shorelines, birdwatchers can look forward to spotting aquatic birds including terns, gulls, oystercatchers, loons, and the federally and state-threatened piping plover.

The brackish tidal marshes serve as foraging grounds for various wading birds during the nesting and post-nesting dispersal seasons, and the marsh also provides critical habitat for the northern harrier, which has one of the highest banding totals in North America.

The park's grasslands are a stopover habitat for grassland species including killdeer, black-bellied plover, American golden plover, and sandpipers such as the pectoral, buff-breasted, and upland sandpiper.

The young forest upland areas within the park are a magnet for migratory landbirds during spring and fall migrations, making it a prime location for birding groups and educational trips.

The Willards Island Nature Trail is a prime location for birdwatching, providing a mix of habitats including tidal wetlands, grasslands, and wooded areas that attract different bird species. The trail is relatively short, but it offers a concentrated birdwatching experience with opportunities to see shorebirds, songbirds, and raptors.

Another excellent spot is the Moraine Trail, which winds through a diverse landscape offering views of both the marsh and the Sound. This trail is particularly good for spotting migratory birds in the spring and fall.

The Meigs Point area, with its nature center and surrounding habitats, is also a hotspot for birdwatching. The center itself hosts a variety of educational programs that can enhance the birdwatching experience.

The park's extensive beach areas are also ideal for observing shorebirds, especially during low tide when they come to feed. The West Beach area, with its sandy stretches and nearby salt marsh, is a good place to see plovers, sandpipers, and other coastal birds.

The Cedar Island area, accessible via a boardwalk, is another excellent birdwatching location, particularly for seeing waterfowl and wading birds.

For those looking to combine birdwatching with a leisurely walk, the park's boardwalk offers a comfortable path along the beachfront where one can spot seabirds and, occasionally, birds of prey overhead. The park's open fields are also worth exploring, as they can be home to different species of sparrows and other grassland birds.

Beyond birds, the Meigs Point Nature Center within the park is home to over 50 species of local wildlife, including turtles, snakes, amphibians, crabs, and fish.

Visitors can engage with hands-on displays and participate in nature walks and presentations, gaining an up-close experience with these animals.

The center also hosts a variety of native animals, providing an educational and interactive experience for all ages. The Nature Center's touch tank presentations allow for a tactile experience with marine creatures, fostering a deeper connection and understanding of the park's aquatic residents.

The park's beaches and tidal pools are also rich with marine life. Visitors can discover tiny crabs, seashells, and various fish species, and may even catch a glimpse of a lobster. 

In addition to the wildlife, the park's habitats themselves are noteworthy. Approximately 600 acres of brackish tidal marsh, 300 acres of grass parking and camping areas, and about 100 acres of young forest upland contribute to the park's biodiversity.

This variety of habitats supports a wide range of species and offers visitors a chance to explore different ecosystems within a single visit.

For wildlife enthusiasts, it is recommended to visit during different seasons and times of day to observe the various species found at Hammonasset Beach.

Related Information

Connecticut

Coastal Connecticut Waterfront Experiences

2024 New England Saltwater Fishing Show

The New England Saltwater Fishing Show will be held March 8-10, 2024 at the Rhode Island Convention center in Providence, Rhode Island.

Sponsored by the Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association (RISAA), the show features boats, fishing tackle, equipment, raffles and giveaways, youth casting area, fishing seminars, and much more.

With 300 booths, this is the largest show of it’s kind in the north east. Covering everything including tackle, rods, reels, lures, electronics, charter guides, boats, motors, accessories, clothing, artwork, and much more.

An array of  seminars will be presented by accomplished captains, authors, local anglers, and others. Experts will cover regional fishing, regulations, gear, techniques, and other information.

General admission is $15 at the door. Kids 11 and under are free, and can visit the kid’s casting area. Free entry for all ladies on Sunday.

For more information, visit www.nesaltwatershow.com.

The Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association is a non-profit organization, created to provide a forum for recreational saltwater anglers;  to provide education to members concerning fishing techniques, improved catches, and overall enjoyment of fishing;  to foster sportsmanship;  to support marine conservation and sound management of fisheries resources;  and provide a unified voice to preserve and protect the rights, traditions and the future of recreational fishing in Rhode Island.

Coastal Communities Issues

Climate change, storms, flooding, wind power, the COVID-19 pandemic, public access, infrastructure, and numerous other issues hold potential to impact coastal communities in New England.

As the frequency and severity of coastal storms and other weather events increases, communities are facing increased pressure to confront climate change, sea level rise, and related issues.

Issues surrounding resiliency are challenges for many coastal communities. Reports and images in the news of flooding and weather-related damage are becoming more and more common.

Federal, state, and local governments are all tasked with addressing the effects of weather and climate driven events. Immediate actions are needed after events occur. In addition, governments must consider options for preventing or mitigating climate-related damage.

In recent years public access to coastal areas has declined steadily. Communities are under pressure to protect existing public access and create new facilities when possible.

Skyrocketing property values are complicating many of these issues. As waterfront properties increase in value, conflicts are inevitable.

Rapidly inflating property values can upend traditional patterns for residents and businesses. In some cases, businesses can no longer operate due to high operating costs. Businesses may also be impacted when workers are driven out of coastal communities by excessive housing costs.

Offshore renewable energy installations (OREIs) are another challenge facing coastal New England. An array of existing and planned OREI projects may affect coastal communities in a variety of ways.

Residents have presented a range of opinions concerning OREIs in New England.

Offshore wind proponents cite benefits including sustainable electricity, high quality employment opportunities, better infrastructure, and others.

Critics of offshore wind power projects have concerns about possible negative effects of wind turbines and associated equipment.

Recent Developments

In October 2023, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) identified a Draft Wind Energy Area (WEA) in the Gulf of Maine, opening a 30-day public review and comment period. The Draft WEA covers approximately 3,519,067 acres offshore Maine, Massachusetts and New Hampshire. 

In November 2023, the New Bedford Port Authority received $24 million through the Department of Transportation’s Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP) for the Leonard’s Wharf Rehabilitation and Extension Project in the Port of New Bedford.

Leonard's Wharf has been identified in offshore wind industry studies and by offshore wind developers as a site that would greatly enhance New Bedford’s ability to stage offshore wind projects, as well as to serve as an operations and maintenance base.

In December 2023, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) completed its environmental review of the proposed Sunrise Wind energy project, which is located approximately 16.4 nautical miles (nm) south of Martha’s Vineyard, Mass., approximately 26.5 nm east of Montauk, N.Y., and 14.5 nm from Block Island, R.I. 

In December 2023, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Marine Debris Program announced the release of its "United States Marine Debris Emergency Response Guide."

In January 2024, the NOAA tide gauge at Bar Harbor, Maine observed its highest water level on record, reaching 4.33 feet above MHHW.

Related Information

New NOAA Facility on Naval Station Newport in Rhode Island

Coastal New England Facts

National Parks of Boston Economic Report 2022

Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park | credit: NPS

A new National Park Service (NPS) report offers insights into the economic benefits of the National Parks of Boston.

Approximately 2.5 million visitors to National Parks of Boston in 2022 spent $167.3 million in communities near the park.

That spending supported 2,090 jobs in the local area and had a cumulative benefit to the local economy of $255.4 million.

The peer-reviewed visitor spending analysis was conducted by economists at the National Park Service. The report shows $23.9 billion of direct spending by nearly 312 million park visitors in communities within 60 miles of a national park.

The report is available at the U.S. National Park Service website (nps.gov).

The National Parks of Boston is a collection of three National Park Service sites – Boston National Historical Park, Boston African American National Historic Site, and Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park.

For more information on the National Parks of Boston, visit: www.nps.gov/bost, www.nps.gov/boaf, and www.bostonharborislands.org.

source: National Park Service

Related Information

Massachusetts

Boston Lighthouse Webcams

Boston Lighthouse Webcams

Boston Lighthouse - Little Brewster Island | credit: NPS

Four new webcams have been installed on Little Brewster Island in Boston Harbor. Viewable by the public, the cams provide panoramic real-time views from Boston Lighthouse of the island and surrounding areas.

The cameras enhance maritime safety by providing a picture of real-time sea conditions and visibility at the outer reaches of the harbor, allowing mariners to make informed decisions about their trip prior to leaving the dock.

The webcam’s installation is the result of cooperative efforts between the U.S. National Park Service, Hull Lifesaving Museum, U.S. Coast Guard Sector Boston and Aids-to-Navigation Team Boston.  

Originally built in 1716, Boston Light is the nation’s oldest lighthouse station. It became a National Historic Landmark in 1964 and is still an active aid-to-navigation.

The lighthouse casts a 27-mile light beam through a second-order revolving Fresnel lens that was installed in 1859.

Looking North

Looking northward from Boston Light, the camera displays the northern approaches into Boston Harbor, with Graves Light visible into the distance. The smaller Brewster Islands, Middle and Outer, are in the midground, with the Shag Rocks on the near right.

Looking East

Looking east from Boston Light, the camera captures Massachusetts Bay.

Looking West

The westward view shows downtown Boston in the distance, with several islands including Great Brewster and Georges Island in the midground.

Looking South

 The southern view captures the town of Hull across the Nantasket Roads shipping route.

Free public access to the webcams is available at:

www.nps.gov/boha/learn/photosmultimedia/webcams.htm

Related Information

Massachusetts

New England Facts

Long Island Sound Futures Fund Grants 2023

In December, federal and state environmental agencies and officials from New England and New York, including the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), announced 39 grants totaling $12 million to organizations and local governments to improve the health of Long Island Sound.

The grants are matched by $8 million from the grantees themselves, resulting in $20 million in total conservation impact for projects in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont.

An array of Long Island Sound Futures Fund (Futures Fund) 2023 grants will support projects that improve water quality by preventing 2.7 million gallons of stormwater and 101,000 pounds of nitrogen pollution from flowing into Long Island Sound waters.

The projects will also remove 120 tons of marine debris from the sound and support planning for restoration of 880 acres of coastal habitat and 102 miles of river corridor vital to fish and wildlife.

The projects are designed to reach 30,000 people through environmental education programs that increase awareness of how to improve the health and vitality of the Sound.

Funding for the grant program comes from the EPA as part of the Long Island Sound Study (LISS), with additional support from FWS, NFWF, and The Zoetis Foundation.

The LISS initiated the Futures Fund in 2005 through EPA’s Long Island Sound Office and NFWF. Since its inception, the Futures Fund has invested $56 million in 640 projects.

The program has generated an additional $65 million in grantee matching funds towards these projects for a total conservation impact of $121 million.

Futures Fund projects have opened 121 river miles for fish passage, restored 842 acres of fish and wildlife habitat, treated 208 million gallons of stormwater pollution, and engaged 5 million people in protection and restoration of the sound.

A complete list of the 2023 Long Island Sound Futures Fund grants recipients is available on the NFWF Long Island Sound Futures Fund website.

Long Island Sound provides economic and recreational benefits to millions of people while also providing habitat for countless numbers of invertebrates, fish, and migratory birds.

Related Information

New England Facts

NOAA Marine Operations Center - Naval Station Newport Rhode Island

NOAA Ship NANCY FOSTER | credit: NOAA

The Newport Rhode Island waterfront will become the home of another important U.S. government maritime facility.

In December 2023, the U.S. Navy, on behalf of NOAA, awarded $146,778,932 to Skanska USA, from New York, to design and build a new NOAA facility on Naval Station Newport in Rhode Island.

This facility will eventually be the new home of NOAA’s Marine Operations Center - Atlantic. 

While the details of the facility’s design are still being finalized, requirements include having a pier that will accommodate four large vessels, a floating dock for smaller vessels, space for vessel repairs and parking and a building to be used for shoreside support and as a warehouse. Construction is anticipated to be completed by 2027. 

The contract to design and build the new NOAA facility was awarded following a request for proposals that was open from January to August 2023. 

The design and construction of the facility is funded in part by the Inflation Reduction Act. Funding supports community efforts to prepare, adapt and build resilience to weather and climate events.

The act also supports improvements to weather and climate data and services, and NOAA’s fleet of research airplanes and ships. 

“By co-locating with Naval Station Newport, we are able to make our ship operations more efficient and increase long-term cost savings through sharing common capabilities,” said NOAA Corps Rear Admiral Nancy Hann, director of NOAA Marine and Aviation Operations and the NOAA Commissioned Officer Corps.

NOAA’s fleet of 15 research and survey ships are operated, managed and maintained by NOAA Marine and Aviation Operations. The fleet supports a wide range of marine activities, including fisheries surveys, nautical charting and ocean and climate studies.

Two of NOAA's most important research vessels are based out of Newport, Rhode Island:

NOAA Ship Henry B. Bigelow is a fisheries survey vessel built specifically for NOAA to support the study and monitoring of marine fisheries and marine mammals. Henry B. Bigelow operates along the northeast and mid-Atlantic coast, from Maine to North Carolina.

NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer is dedicated to exploring the open ocean for the purpose of discovery and the advancement of knowledge about the ocean. Missions of the 224-foot vessel include mapping, site characterization, reconnaissance, advancing technology, education, and outreach.

source: NOAA

Related Information

Rhode Island

2022 Southeast Land Trust Wild & Scenic Film Festival

2022 Southeast Land Trust Wild & Scenic Film Festival
Friday April 22nd, 2022 | 7:00 - 9:00 PM
The Music Hall
28 Chestnut St, Portsmouth, NH 

On Friday April 22nd, 2022, the public is invited to join the Southeast Land Trust (SELT) in person and online for the 12th annual Wild & Scenic Film Festival.  

This year’s films combine exceptional filmmaking, beautiful cinematography, and first-rate storytelling to inform, inspire and ignite solutions and possibilities to restore the earth and human communities while creating a positive future for the next generation.

Attendees can expect award-winning films about nature, community activism, adventure, conservation, water, energy and climate change, wildlife, environmental justice, agriculture, and more. 

A volunteer film committee has hand-picked a program from the award-winning films curated by the South Yuba River Citizens League (SYRCL) and national Wild & Scenic Film Festival.

Tickets are $20 For more information, visit https://seltnh.org/wildandscenic/

To watch the program remotely participants must create an account with Qudio. If opting to buy virtual tickets viewers will be prompted to create an account during the purchase process.

If tickets are purchased through The Music Hall, ticketholders will receive an email with directions to register for the online event to watch virtually or in person.  

All ticket holders to SELT’s Wild & Scenic Film Festival will be able to watch the program on Demand from 10:56PM on Friday, April 22 through 11:56 PM Wednesday, April 27 through a registered Qudio Account. 

The Wild & Scenic Film Festival was started in 2003 by the South Yuba River Citizens League (SYRCL, pronounced ‘circle’), a watershed advocacy group based in the Sierra foothills of Northern California. 

The festival’s namesake is in celebration of achieving Wild & Scenic status on 39 miles of the South Yuba River in 1999. The festival celebrates its annual event in Nevada City, CA each winter featuring over 150 award-winning films and welcoming filmmakers, celebrities, and activists who bring a human face to the environmental movement.

SYRCL’s Wild & Scenic Film Festival is a call to action. The films illustrate not only the challenges facing our planet but the work communities are doing to protect the environment and the places we love. The stories give us a sense of place and what it means to be responsible stewards of the earth.

The Southeast Land Trust (SELT) conserves and stewards land for the benefit of people and nature in New Hampshire. SELT serves 52 towns and cities of Rockingham and Strafford counties and has conserved tens of thousands of acres, including nature preserves, hiking trails, farmland, and scenic vistas. Learn more at seltnh.org.

source: Southeast Land Trust

Leaf Peeping Tips

Autumn is prime time for leaf peeping in New England. This article offers a variety of tips for planning a trip to view fall foliage and other natural beauty in New England.

To experience beautiful views of fall foliage in the New England region, travelers should plan ahead whenever possible. Leaf peeping can be done on day trips, overnight excursions, or multi-day vacations.

New England states provide travelers with extensive resources for trip planning. Most states provide fall foliage forecasts, weekly updates, and route information.

Other sources of leaf peeping information can be include local contacts such as county tourism officials, innkeepers, restaurant staff, and members of the travel industry.

Although many travelers prefer to enjoy fall foliage from their own vehicle, an array of options exist. Leaf peeping can be enjoyed by train, bus, or other modes of transportation. More intimate views can sometimes be found by hiking. 

Choosing items to take on a trip will depend on the length, transportation mode, and other factors. For most travelers, water is an essential item. Other useful accessories might include snacks, eyewear, proper clothing, and a digital camera.

For independent travelers, navigation is an important subject to consider. Although smartphones and other electronic devices are convenient, it's usually good to have paper maps and possibly a compass.

Weather can be another factor to consider. Fall is usually a time when there are plenty of bright clear days which are suitable for leaf peeping and nature appreciation. Between periods of fair weather, storms or other natural events can limit travel opportunities.

The fall season in New England can be a great time to enjoy the outdoors. Travelers can make the most of their time by doing pre-trip research, being ready on short notice, and taking opportunities when they arise. 

Vermont Free Ice Fishing Day 2021

 

This year's Vermont free ice fishing day is Saturday, January 30, 2021. On Vermont free ice fishing days, anyone, resident or nonresident, may go fishing in Vermont without a fishing license.

Due to COVID restrictions this year, the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department (VFWD) is unable to host its normal in-person Ice Fishing Festival that is normally held on Free Fishing Day. In place of that, VFWD created a Virtual Ice Fishing Festival that will give anglers the opportunity to learn about ice fishing basics.

According to a 2019 VFWD angler survey:

• Yellow perch, northern pike, and lake trout were the three most preferred species when fishing through the ice
• A majority of anglers rated the quality of fishing in Vermont as good or excellent
• Crowding at access areas and overall access to fishing was not seen as a significant problem in Vermont. 

source: Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department

First Day Hikes in New England 2021

A mix of virtual and group First Day Hikes will be held in New England to celebrate New Year's Day 2021. This article includes a selection of First Day hikes, walks, virtual tours, hiking areas, and other resources in New England.

First Day hikes are popular with individuals and families as a way to welcome the new year while enjoying the outdoors and connecting with nature.

In 2020,  nearly 85,000 people celebrated the New Year outdoors, collectively hiking over 176,366 miles throughout the country on the guided hikes. Other participants hiked state park trails throughout the day.

In normal circumstances, America’s State Parks host a full range of First Day Hike events. According to America’s State Parks (www.stateparks.org), states will be adapting their 2021 First Day hikes to keep people safe and healthy during the COVID-19 Coronavirus Pandemic.

Changes will include hikes with smaller groups, virtual hikes, self-guided hikes and trail challenges. States will be adding events and trails throughout the month of December. Hike distances and difficulty levels may vary from park to park.

 

New England First Day Hike Events:

Maine

Virtual Adventures - Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands

New Hampshire

Virtual First Day Hike Event - New Hampshire State Parks

Connecticut

Virtual and Self-Guided Hikes in Connecticut - Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP)

Hiking Areas in New England

While many First Day hikes are affected by the pandemic, the region has plenty of public lands and other areas where individuals and families can enjoy hiking, walking, and other outdoor recreation. The following are a few locations where hiking and exploring are possible.

The Green Mountain National Forest in western Vermont is one of New England's most popular hiking destinations. A public, federally managed national forest, Green Mountain is home to miles of trails and other areas for outdoor recreation. For information about health and safety precautions for Vermont, visit https://www.healthvermont.gov/response/coronavirus-covid-19

In Northwest Massachusetts, the Mohawk Trail Woodlands encompasses 361,941 acres of northern forests, wetlands, unique geology, and a biologically diverse ecosystem.

Along the coast of Massachusetts, Cape Cod National Seashore includes miles of sandy beaches, lighthouses, marshes, ponds, cranberry bogs, and upland landscapes. Twelve walking trails at the Cape Cod seashore are open year round. Cape Cod National Seashore is located approximately 20 miles east of Hyannis, MA.

In Rhode Island, state parks and saltwater beaches are open with limitations in place. The number of parking spots will be reduced, and parking gates may need to be closed at times depending on beach capacity. For more information, visit: https://riparks.com/covid19.php

 

2021 First Day Hikes Resources

The full listing of First Day Hikes and other special programs in America’s State Parks is available at:

https://www.stateparks.org/special-programs/first-day-hikes/

America's State Parks - First Day Hikes

American Hiking Society - First Day Hikes

 

Related Information

First Day Hikes in New England 2020

Christmas in New England

Coastal Connecticut Waterfront Experiences

New London Ledge Light | credit USCG

An incredible range of waterfront experiences can be found in Coastal Connecticut.

This article touches on a few of the state's most interesting destinations, including waterfront cities, historic towns, coastal resorts, beaches, seashores, and wild areas.

Connecticut is New England's southernmost state. Located on the western side of Long Island Sound, the coast of Connecticut is famous for its sandy beaches, scenic shorelines, and waterfront towns.

New London, Old Saybrook, New Haven, Bridgeport, Mystic, and other coastal communities are among the hundreds of possible destinations that are suitable for day trips, weekend getaways, and summer vacations.

Most Connecticut coastal towns are located within minutes of I-95, which provides travelers with reasonable access.

For northbound motorists, Greenwich is a good first stop off for food, shopping, and other needs. Nearby, Old Greenwich is known for its seaside views. At Greenwich Point, travelers can explore the park, public beaches, and Bruce Museum Seaside Center.

Norwalk is another coastal town with plenty of things to do. Oyster Shell Park has waterfront pedestrian paths with nautical works of art, harbor views along the Norwalk River, and educational exhibits. The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk includes displays of fish, crustaceans, and other marine life.

At Norwalk Beach, a pier provides view of Long Island and access for saltwater fishing. The annual Norwalk Boat Show and Oyster Festivals are popular with locals and tourists.

Not far to the east is Sherwood Island State Park. The 235 acre includes beaches, access for saltwater fishing, picnic areas and a 9/11 memorial.

Near Madison, Hammonasset Beach State Park is a haven for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. As Connecticut's largest shoreline park, it includes over two miles of sandy beaches on Long Island Sound.

Located along the Thames River, New London is one of Connecticut's oldest cities. Its waterfront area offers a variety of attractions and experiences. Ferry service from New London includes routes to Long Island and Block Island. Both ferry trips provide travelers with extensive views of Long Island Sound.

Further Reading

Connecticut Tourism Information

Maine Sea Grant Working Waterfront and Coastal Communities Promotion

Maine Sea Grant recently announced a competition to generate great ideas in support of Maine's working waterfront and coastal communities. Awards are available of up to $15,000.

Buoy Maine will focus on strengthening coastal/marine seafood and tourism related industries, highlighting the Maine Brand and experience, building resiliency, and helping Maine's coastal businesses survive the COVID-19 pandemic. Partnerships are encouraged.

Any business or non-profit connected to the Maine seafood or tourism industries or the heritage of its fishing communities are eligible to apply.

The competition will consist of three phases:

Participants will pitch their ideas via the Buoy Maine Virtual Pitch Competition by September 14, 2020.

Applicants that advance to the Pitch at the Buoy Maine Pitch Competition in October will share their idea in a 5-minute pitch. A judges panel will evaluate pitches, and awardees will receive up to $15,000 to further develop their innovation over the next 6 months. Pitches that receive awards will be made public after the Pitch event.

At the Share at the Buoy Maine Finale, selected awardees will share the product or project at a virtual public celebration, including lessons learned, successes, challenges, and how their ideas may support others. The finale will also be a networking event with investors.

For more information, visit https://seagrant.umaine.edu/funding-opportunities/buoy-maine/

source: Maine Department of Marine Resources

Connecticut Black Bear Encounters 2020

Black Bear | credit: USFWS

In Connecticut, interactions between black bears and people are continuing to rise, resulting in unprecedented numbers of complaints and requests for assistance, according to the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP).

Some of these interactions have been serious, including bears entering homes and gravely injuring both leashed and unleashed dogs.

As of July 8th, 2020 DEEP had received more reports of bears entering homes (25) than in any previous year.

Connecticut could triple the average number of black bear home entries experienced 2018 and 2019, according to DEEP. The number of home entries reported this year in June alone (17) equaled those reported during all of 2019.

DEEP is reminding residents of several best practices they can incorporate to help reduce the likelihood of an encounter with a bear. These practices, along with additional information, are available on DEEP’s “Living with Black Bears” website: https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Wildlife/Nuisance-Wildlife/Living-with-Black-Bears

Black bears that access and consume human-associated food (e.g. birdseed, trash, pet food) on a regular basis become habituated (comfortable around people) and food-conditioned (associate humans with food).

As the bear population continues to grow and expand its range, and bears become increasingly food conditioned, conflicts with humans will continue to increase, and food-conditioned bears pose a greater risk to public safety and often cause more property damage to houses, cars, pets, and livestock.

In the rare instance when a bear appears to be aggressive toward people, residents should immediately contact DEEP’s 24-hour dispatch line at 860-424-3333.

Bear sightings reported by the public provide valuable information to assist the DEEP in monitoring changes in the black bear population.

Anyone who observes a black bear in Connecticut is encouraged to report the sighting on DEEP’s website at https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Wildlife/Nuisance-Wildlife/Living-with-Black-Bears or call the Wildlife Division at 860-424-3011.

Information on the presence or absence of ear tags, including tag color and numbers, is particularly valuable. A common misconception is that a tagged bear is a problem bear, and a bear with two ear tags was caught on two different occasions because it was causing problems.

Actually, every bear receives two ear tags (one in each ear) the first time it is handled by DEEP. Most tagged bears have not been caught as problem bears, but rather as part of a project researching the state’s population.

DEEP suggests that municipalities adopt ordinances prohibiting the feeding of black bears, as a way of reducing conflicts between humans and bears. The towns of Hartland, Colebrook, and Barkhamsted have already adopted such ordinances

source: Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection

Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge 50th Anniversary

In 2020, Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its renaming in honor of the world-renowned marine biologist, author, environmentalist and former U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service employee, Rachel Carson.

The refuge's year-long celebration marks the formal dedication of the renaming, which took place on June 27, 1970. The 50th anniversary celebration will include an array of virtual and remote events.

During the 50th anniversary celebration, the refuge will be highlighting dozens of opportunities to explore its wealth of wildlife, habitat and natural resources, as well as Rachel Carson’s legacy.

Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, established in 1966 as the Coastal Maine National Wildlife Refuge, is comprised of 11 divisions, which span 50 miles of coastline in York and Cumberland counties, from Kittery to Cape Elizabeth.

Currently at 5,690 acres, the refuge will contain approximately 14,683 acres of various wildlife habitats when land acquisition is complete.

In addition to sheltering wildlife and protecting natural resources, Rachel Carson NWR offers a variety of experiences on public lands.

The refuge contains three main nature trails and many wildlife observation stations featuring every habitat type found on the refuge, hunting and fishing opportunities, interpretive and educational programs, a visitor information center, volunteering opportunities, and other recreational activities.

Anglers can access a variety of tidal fishing spots on the refuge. The fishing season is open year round for saltwater fishing to the head of tide.

Chauncey Creek, Brave Boat Tidal Creek, Ogunquit River, Stevens Brook, Webhannet River, Merriland River/Skinner Mill, Mousam River, Goosefare Brook, and Spurwink River were incorporated into the previous Refuge Fish Plan in 2000.

The 2020 Recreational Fishing Plan expands fishing opportunities available to the public by opening the Little River at Timber Point.

Rachel Carson was a world-renowned marine biologist, author and environmentalist who served as an aquatic biologist and editor-in-chief for the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. She has been credited with launching the contemporary environmental movement and awakening the concern of Americans for the environment.

In her writings, Rachel Carson displayed a unique ability to simultaneously engage her own sense of wonder as well as that of her readers through eloquent prose and investigation of natural phenomena and biological processes. Her work helped connect people to nature and inspire environmental stewardship.

Carson regularly summered on Southport Island, where she studied its beach and tide pools to research The Edge of the Sea (1955). Through tireless investigation for her greatest work, Silent Spring (1962), she linked the unrestrained use of post-World War II chemical pesticides with fearsome, biological consequences.

Overcoming industry and government pressure to abandon her research, Carson alerted generations to use chemicals with utmost caution, warning that their improper use would have devastating effects on public health and the environment.

As fitting recognition of Carson’s contributions to conservation after her death in 1964, the refuge was renamed in her honor.

source: USFWS

NOAA Northeast Region Aerial Whale Surveys

North Atlantic Right Whale | credit: NOAA Fisheries

A series of aerial surveys could provide important clues about whale movements off the New England Coast.

NOAA Fisheries scientists and colleagues from state and non-profit organizations conducted aerial surveys in the Northeast region through December 2019.

Additional flights are scheduled to occur in February, 2020.

During upcoming surveys, scientists hope to locate right whales in and near Nantucket Shoals.

Whales have been aggregating in the area recently, according to mariner's reports. NOAA scientists will also survey other areas where right whales were seen in the past.

Two recent aerial surveys used NOAA Twin Otter aircraft. The Northeast center’s aerial whale survey team conducts one based at Air Station Cape Cod.

Center staff and colleagues from other marine research organizations conducted a survey specifically for AMAPPS last fall, based at Barnstable Municipal Airport in Hyannis, Massachusetts.

Related Information

Wildlife in New England

Cape Cod National Seashore Winter Film Festival 2020

Nauset Lighthouse Eastham MA | credit: NPS

Cape Cod National Seashore Annual Winter Film Festival
January 26th thru February 23rd, 2020
Cape Cod National Seashore
Salt Pond Visitor Center
Eastham, MA

Cape Cod National Seashore’s Annual Winter Film Festival kicks off on Sunday, January 26 at 1:30 pm at Salt Pond Visitor Center in Eastham.

This year's festival explores the power of the human mind in overcoming extreme obstacles. Films show on Sundays at 1:30 pm on the theater-size screen in surround sound.

The auditorium is wheelchair accessible, and the movies are free, thanks to generous licensing funding provided by Friends of the Cape Cod National Seashore.

January 26: A Beautiful Mind--135 minutes. 2001 biographical drama based on the life of John Nash, Nobel Laureate in economics. The story follows Nash from his days as a graduate student through his fall into delusion and schizophrenia. Best Picture, Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Supporting Actress.

February 2: Gravity--91 minutes. 2013 sci-fi thriller starring Sandra Bullock and George Clooney as American astronauts stranded in space after a mid-orbit destruction of their space shuttle. Selected for American Film Institute's Movies of the Year List.

February 9: The Theory of Everything--123 minutes. 2014 biographical drama about theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking. Despite being diagnosed with motor neuron disease and being given two years to live, Hawking had a long career as a researcher and is regarded as one of the most brilliant theoretical physicists since Einstein.

February 16: Apollo 13--140 minutes. This 1995 film dramatizes the aborted 1970 Apollo 13 lunar mission. En route to the moon, an on-board explosion deprives the spacecraft of most of its oxygen supply and electrical power, forcing NASA flight controllers to abort the landing and get the three astronauts home safely.

February 23: In the Heart of the Sea--121 minutes. 2015 adventure-drama based on Nathanial Philbrick's nonfiction book about the sinking of the American whaling ship Essex in 1820, an event that inspired the novel Moby-Dick.

Salt Pond Visitor Center is located at 50 Nauset Road, at the intersection of Route 6 in Eastham, MA.

Rhode Island Offshore Renewable Energy Impacts Symposium

17th Ronald C. Baird Sea Grant Science Symposium
April 24, 2020
University of Rhode Island
Narragansett Bay Campus
215 South Ferry Road
Narragansett, RI 02882
uri.edu/gso

The University of Rhode Island Graduate School of Oceanography, Rhode Island Sea Grant, the Coastal Resources Center, and the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) Working Group on Marine Benthal Renewable Energy Developments (WGMBRED) are organizing an opportunity to share lessons learned from Europe regarding the interactions of offshore renewable energy with the environment.

ICES WGMBRED is an internationally recognized group of scientists working at the cutting edge of ecosystem-based science associated with offshore and marine renewable energy installation and environmental interactions.

Event presentations and discussions will focus on key issues identified by Rhode Islanders regarding the potential cause-effect relationships resulting from the construction and operation of offshore renewable energy installations and recommendations for minimizing impacts and promoting opportunities for positive biological outcomes.

This event is organized at the request of Rhode Island resource users, communities, and other stakeholders to inform future decisions.

For more information and to register for the symposium, visit:

https://seagrant.gso.uri.edu/special-programs/baird/

For more on URI’s expertise and involvement in the appropriate development of offshore renewable energy, visit:

https://web.uri.edu/offshore-renewable-energy/.

source: Rhode Island Sea Grant