Howard’s Brook Conservation Land
The Conservation Commission purchased the Howard’s Brook Conservation Area in 2010 from the trustees of L & M Realty Trust. The property was dedicated in memory of Edward P. and Arline M. Fitch. The parcel lies in the northeast corner of Dunstable and has 265 feet of frontage on scenic Hardy Street. The property abuts 37 acres of Town Forest that connects to 13 acres of land held by the Dunstable Rural Land Trust (DRLT). Both the Town Forest and DRLT parcels were previously landlocked until the Commission purchased Howard’s Brook. Adjoins over 74 acres of protected land.
There is a vernal pool near the road and to the east of this pond, runs a pasture that slopes down to a perennial stream (Howard’s Brook), bordered by a forested wetland mix that transitions into deep marsh. Along the southern property line, there is a 1st order intermittent stream flowing easterly into the Howard Brook wetland system. This stream and BVW are primarily a Red Maple/shrub swamp.
Next to the road lies a small NHESP certified vernal pool. There is a perennial stream (Howard’s Brook) on the property. The parcel falls within the area designated as Priority Habitat for rare species (the bittern (Botaurus lentiginosus), Blandings Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii) and the blue-spotted salamander (Ambystoma laterale)). The entire premises is designated BioMap2 Core Habitat and a portion as BioMap 2 Critical Natural Landscape.
There is essentially no parking at or near this property. If you happen to be walking or bicycling by, stop and have a look.
