Pressey Brook Headwaters

When you set out on the Appalachian National Scenic Trail in Lyme, New Hampshire, your adventure might begin with a walk through the serene Pressey Brook Headwaters. These 74 acres contain gorgeous headwaters that meander through the lush landscape with picturesque views from the hiking trail. Imagine yourself here on a dewy summer morning, seeing local wildlife like beavers, moose, and hermit thrush, taking in the gorgeous morning sun on your face, and feeling the crunch of leaves under your boots.

Because of our work here, this section of the Appalachian Trail will lie on public land, protected by a forested buffer, ensuring a wilderness experience for the 3 million hikers who make the trek each year. Once protected and handed over to our partners at the National Park Service, a portion of the land already used as alternative parking by trail users could be formalized as a parking site, enhancing the trail’s impact and creating a more accessible trail for all who visit.

The protection of the land goes beyond supporting community health and the natural experience of hikers. It also safeguards essential wetlands, wildlife corridors, headwaters, and forests that make up the beautiful view from the path. By protecting the namesake headwaters, we can help ensure clean drinking water for the community and mitigate the effects of extreme flooding in Lyme and nearby Hanover—and create a greener future for more New Hampshire residents.