Androscoggin Ranger District Open House and Community Awards

Gorham, NH – September 19, 2018 The Androscoggin Ranger District is hosting an Open House on September 27th from 4:00pm to 6:00pm at 300 Glen Rd. in Gorham, NH to offer an opportunity for the local community to learn more about what the Androscoggin Ranger District has to offer, while enjoying a family friendly event. You’re welcome to stay for the entire Open House, or drop by to check out the pollinator garden and take a short walk on the nature trail. Smokey Bear will be welcoming guests in the parking lot, and is delighted when children want to have their picture taken with him!

The Open House is a perfect opportunity to thank volunteers from the local community who helped with the new wildlife displays and Visitor Center Renovations. Join us at 5:00pm for the inaugural Annual Androscoggin Ranger District Local Community Award ceremony and help us recognize your neighbors.

Throughout the event there will be activities for children and adults, with indoor and outdoor conservation education activities, including a storybook trail activity. Several exhibits will be on display in the Visitor Center, including NEW Wildlife exhibits, local CCC and Dolly Copp historical displays, and the White Mountain National Forest Centennial/Peoples Forest display. Local historian and Forest Service retiree Dave Govatski will be available to answer questions.

White Mountain National Forest Artist in Residence and local artist, Quinn Morrissette will join us to talk about his residency and show photos of his sculptor in progress at Dolly Copp Campground. Quinn grew up in Berlin, NH and like many North Country kids, he spent much of his childhood outside, and the environment of northern New Hampshire provides both the source and inspiration for much of his work. “My project as Artist in Residence has been to create work that reflects our bond and interdependence with nature, and that inspires those who come in contact with it to carefully consider the White Mountain National Forest and its role in our lives, especially during the celebration of its 100th birthday,” he said.

Androscoggin District Ranger Jen Barnhart and District staff will be available to answer questions and talk about recreation, wildlife, forestry, search & rescue/avalanche, and fire programs. “We want to acknowledge and honor local community members who are dedicated and passionate in helping us manage our landscape, and help us with the work we do locally on the Forest to meet our mission,” said Jen Barnhart. “I hope this event will increase connectivity to the local communities and remind people the Androscoggin Ranger District is a local resource.”

Visitor Center staff will be on hand to assist visitors with any questions and offer information about annual recreation passes, Christmas tree and firewood permits, and make suggestions for recreation activity opportunities in the area.

We hope you will join us! Snacks and homemade treats will be available.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *