HodgePodge Images: MMRG Shillaber Conservation Easement Grand Opening

Yesterday I attended the Grand Opening of the Shillaber Conservation Easement with the Moose Mountains Regional Greenways. MMRG was probably the first Conservation Organization that I started taking photos with - I have photos of the Woods Water and Wildlife Festival from 2007. They state on their website that, "Moose Mountains Regional Greenways services its member communities by conserving land, conducting research, providing technical services and advice to town land use boards, and freely distributing information through workshops and reports." Events like this grand opening remind me of their work with "the little guys" and makes me appreciate them even more.

In 2016 I worked with the previous executive director, Patti, in creating a postcard that went out to surrounding communities encouraging people to come together to collaborate on a greenways plan for the area. The primary photo, of Bowser Pond in the SPNHF Moose Mountains Reservation, was taken after a bit of a scouting trip to create a photo that looked similar to the logo at that time. (only the snowmobile and farmers pictures were not mine and I created the layout)

This was also the photo that was used on a chocolate bar created by Winnipesaukee Chocolates. They are known for creating and distributing candy and donating part of the proceeds back to the non-profit organization. I even got a byline.

The Shillaber property consists of 195 acres on the Farmington/Strafford town line. It has been maintained since the '70s or '80s by the Shillaber family who developed a Forest Management Plan shortly after purchase. Gemini tells me that, "A Forest Mangement Plan is a comprehensive, site-specific, written document that guides landowners in managing their forestland to meet their personal goals, which may include environmental, economic, and social objectives, such as enhancing wildlife habitat, increasing timber value, improving recreational opportunities, or ensuring long-term forest health". This shows a dedication to protection and stewardship. It is obvious while walking the property, which includes portions of the Berry River and a large marsh, making the property 30% wetlands, that it has been well-loved by now four generations.

The Berry River is an important water source for the town of Rochester, and they have taken part in this conservation project.

Access for this property is off of Sheepboro Road. There is currently an area that can be used for parking, though the land owner may make a shed in this area. I'm sure I will be back!

MMRG Link to the Shillaber Project including trail maps: https://mmrgnh.org/directory/shillaber-conservation-project

Did you find your way here after a hike where Kate was the volunteer photographer? Perhaps you've enjoyed her images or seen her byline on one of many environmental websites. Kate is a naturalist and largely self-taught photographer with a passion for capturing the beauty and urgency of the natural world. Having photographed hundreds of environmental events for nonprofit organizations—entirely self-funded—she is now asking for your help to upgrade her equipment. Your support will allow her to continue providing high-quality, impactful images that support conservation efforts. Ways you can help:

• Share this campaign with friends, family, and nature lovers at GoFundMe. https://gofund.me/4cff87b7e

• Follow me on social media to see the journey unfold at https://hodgepodgeimages.blogspot.com/2025/09/the-hodgepodge-images-project.html

• Connect me with organizations that might benefit from my photography. You can check out the HodgePodgeImage Portfolio website at https://HodgePodgeImages.com

Thanks!

HodgePodge Images: Exploring Nature and Photography at Keay Brook Preserve, Berwick, Maine

Last week marked a new chapter in my outdoor adventures as I took on the role of leader for a Naturalist and Photography hike organized by the Great Work Regional Land Trust (GWRLT) at their Keay Brook Preserve. Located conveniently close to home, this preserve has been a personal favorite for exploration and photography, and I have participated in numerous GWRLT-led hikes here.

My trail companions for that day were a small group comprising three individuals well-acquainted with GWRLT and two newcomers—a couple eager to learn about the land and its natural beauty. Despite my reputation for being quiet, I open up significantly when given the opportunity to hike and share my knowledge. Jane, the office administrator of GWRLT, enjoyed the experience immensely and even recorded some of my commentary during the hike. Throughout the walk, I shared various tips on nature photography, especially focusing on cell phone photography techniques because the best camera is the one you have with you. I demonstrated how to effectively use apps like iNaturalist and Seek for plant and animal identification. Additionally, I discussed the exposure triangle—aperture, shutter speed, and ISO—and explained how to move beyond the default "green box" settings on digital cameras to achieve better photographic results.

A significant part of the discussion revolved around the workings of Land Trusts, clarifying common misconceptions and emphasizing their role in conservation. Although I took only a few photos during the formal part of the hike, I returned afterward with both my digital camera and a film camera I am using for my UNH Darkroom class.

Walnut Grove Road

The trail itself, known as the River Loop, is approximately one mile long and mostly flat, making it accessible for most hikers. It meanders along the southern side of the Keay Brook Estuary, a term I thought required brackish water... The trail continues along the Salmon Falls River, which marks the border between Maine and New Hampshire. A notable feature along the route is the remains of an old bridge at the intersection with Walnut Grove Road. Although the wooden boards have been removed, I can only imagine how many people who climb across it as-is. The bridge’s footings are particularly fascinating; on the Maine side, they are constructed from beautifully cut granite, often with less than three inches between the stones, showcasing the craftsmanship of the past. Conversely, the New Hampshire side features cobblestones set in cement, weathered by time and the natural forces of gravity.

Enjoy some of the nature of the preserve through Kate’s eyes:

Banded Tussock Moth Caterpillar

Wild Chestnut, possibly American/European Hybrid

I love calico red maple leaves, even more so when they have cool shadows!

Oak Leaf Miner

Salmon Falls River

Walnut Grove Bridge

Keay Brook Estuary

Saturday I get to explore the brand-new Moose Mountain Regional Greenways’ brand new Shillaber Conservation Easement. Looks like good early fall weather for it!

Did you find your way here after a hike where Kate was the volunteer photographer? Perhaps you've enjoyed her images or seen her byline on one of many environmental websites. Kate is a naturalist and largely self-taught photographer with a passion for capturing the beauty and urgency of the natural world. Having photographed hundreds of environmental events for nonprofit organizations—entirely self-funded—she is now asking for your help to upgrade her equipment. Your support will allow her to continue providing high-quality, impactful images that support conservation efforts. Ways you can help:

• Share this campaign with friends, family, and nature lovers at GoFundMe. https://gofund.me/4cff87b7e
• Follow me on social media to see the journey unfold at https://hodgepodgeimages.blogspot.com/2025/09/the-hodgepodge-images-project.html
• Connect me with organizations that might benefit from my photography. You can check out the HodgePodgeImage Portfolio website at https://HodgePodgeImages.com

Thanks!