Cheshire Pond Conservation Area Management Plan

The Jaffrey Conservation Commission purchased the Cheshire Pond Conservation Area (CPCA) to become town-owned land in May 2007. The 66-acre property lies on the northwestern side of Cheshire Pond, a 38-acre body of water visible from Route 202 where the Contoocook River flows northeast over the D.D. Bean dam. The acquisition process started when an abutter contacted the Conservation Commission in the spring of 2005 indicating the property’s availability. Residents voiced interest in the preservation of this area’s open space, wildlife habitat, and wetlands. After lengthy negotiations and preparatory work, the Commission’s offer to buy the property was accepted; and Jaffrey citizens voted to ratify the purchase of this 66-acre parcel at Town Meeting in March 2007.

The Cheshire Pond Conservation Area has an existing trail, several game trails, extensive wetland areas, a diversity of wildlife, and a substantial underlying aquifer.

A series of public meetings were held between August and November 2007 to hear opinions and concerns about the potential management of the CPCA from town residents. This management plan is a result of those meetings. It is a guidance document for individuals desiring to utilize the property and for those interested in aiding the Commission in its management role. Although official in its current form, it should be regarded as a dynamic document that will change with experience and as the needs of the Conservation Area change.

Click here for CPCA Management Plan