Map Showing Andover Area PFAS
By Harvey Pine
Remaining Hopeful for a Second Nesting
By Donna Baker-Hartwell
Scientist Explains PFAS and Why They Are Health Hazards
Awareness can help to limit exposure
By Harvey Pine
PFAS is an acronym that rose to prominence in New Hampshire and the nation nearly a decade ago, when the contaminant was discovered in groundwater at the Pease Air Force Base in Greenland, New Hampshire. The contamination spread to public water wells and was present in concentrations above health standards. The source of PFAS contamination […]
Preservation Committee Urges Public to Give Loons Space
Nests are vulnerable to boat wakes and threats
Press release
The Loon Preservation Committee (LPC) is reminding the public that from now through mid-to-late July, loons will be nesting throughout the state. Loons nest on lakes and ponds and often build their nests along the shoreline of islands, in marshes, or along the mainland shoreline. Adapted for life in the water, loons cannot walk on […]
Not “One and Done” — May Frost Takes Farmers by Surprise
Many plants died; some survived 26-degree temps
By Lorna Carlisle
Okay — you win some, you lose some. The hard frost on May 18 took a lot of farmers by surprise. Even commercial farmers lost a lot of crops. Apples, peaches, strawberries, blueberries, and other fruits could all be affected by the freeze. Depending on where you live, it could make a big difference whether […]
Critical Trio of Seed Starting: Water, Light, and Heat
Heat mats are a good investment
By Lorna Carlisle
When you start seeds, three things are critical: water, light, and heat. I am a firm believer in a heat mat if you can afford one. They come in various sizes but a 21” x 48” mat is around $75. It’s a good investment that should last for years. Some articles recommend putting seedlings […]
Banded Loon Pair Returns to Highland Lake on “Ice Out” Day
Chicks could hatch by fourth of July
By Donna Baker-Hartwell
Loons returned to Highland Lake on April 11 – the same day as “ICE OUT”. They will be seen coming and going for the next several weeks. Other loons will visit the lake and be scouting for mates and nesting territory. Highland Lake is too small to provide room for more than one nesting pair. […]
New Parking System Begins at Seacoast State Parks
ParkMobile and Park Smarter apps are easy
Press Release
Guests and outdoor enthusiasts visiting seacoast state parks this spring and summer can expect an easier way to pay for parking. On April 1, the New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation will launch an enhanced parking program for its metered parking lots along the seacoast. Partnering with IPS Group, Inc. and ParkMobile, the new […]
Trout Sale Fundraiser Offers Chance to Stock Ponds
Order deadline is May 15; pick up May 21
Press Release
Do you want to participate in the biggest catch of a fundraiser? Spring is the time to stock your backyard ponds! Rainbow and brook trout are available in 6 – 8 inch and 10 – 12 inch sizes. Trout, size 6 – 8 inches, can be picked up on Sunday, May 21, from 1 to […]
Farm Stand Owner Believes in Growing in the Soil
Shares gardening tips to save on fresh veggies
By Lorna Carlisle
Note: Lorna Carlisle, who recently joined the Beacon’s new Content Committee, agreed to help us find, and write, articles about gardening, farm stands, and helpful suggestions. She lives in Salisbury, and has been running a farm stand since 2005, at the North of Concord Farm (located across from the Barn Store on Route 4). She […]