Description
What makes this place special?
When TNC acquired the Joanne Bass Bross Preserve in January 2001, it not only conserved 501 acres of diverse forests and rocky ridges, it created a large 2,700-acre swath of contiguous conserved lands by connecting Miller State Park on Pack Monadnock Mountain with the Wapack National Fish and Wildlife Refuge on North Pack. Hikers can experience the benefits of this connection firsthand by traversing the 21-mile Wapack Trail, which passes through a corner of the TNC's preserve north of Pack Monadnock. Along the way, excellent views of Mount Monadnock, the White Mountains, and Uncanoonucs can be had from the ledges and rock outrcops. Hawk watching is outstanding during migration periods, with more than 3,400 broad-winged hawks and other raptors observed on a single day in 2010. Northern hardwood forests along the trails provide the opportunity to see spring wildflowers like trillium, pink lady’s slippers, and wood sorrel.
How was this place protected?
The Nature Conservancy partnered with the New England Forestry Foundation (NEFF) and the Monadnock Conservancy to acquire the preserve. The Monadnock Conservancy identified the land and organized local support. NEFF negotiated the agreement with the landowner, and TNC agreed to purchase and manage the land with help from local contributions. The preserve is named after Joanne Bass Bross, who loved the outdoors and spent many afternoons exploring this property.