Photo by Paula Tracy

Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest

By Paula Tracy, InDepthNH.org

NORTH WOODSTOCK - New Hampshire's Republican governor teamed up with Democratic U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Maggie Hassan in a bipartisan push that has preserved the USDA's Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest from shutdown.

Back in April, Senators Shaheen and Hassan highlighted the threat and held discussions with state environmental leaders about the Trump Administration's intentions to shutter the site, renowned for its long-term studies on hydrology and ecological shifts.

At the Highland Center in Crawford Notch, the senators committed to partnering with Governor Ayotte and fellow Republicans to persuade USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins against closing the Hubbard Brook facility.

Their advocacy paid off.

Governor Ayotte and Senator Shaheen released a joint statement on Monday announcing that the USDA will maintain operations at Hubbard Brook and assess future arrangements for the distinct Bartlett Experimental Forest to safeguard these vital New Hampshire research hubs.

"New Hampshire's forests play a crucial role in our economy, environment, and daily lives," Governor Ayotte stated. "I held a constructive dialogue with Secretary Rollins and Senator Shaheen, and I value the USDA's pledge to sustain these essential research forests."

Senator Shaheen added, "Studies from Hubbard Brook and Bartlett have shaped forest management throughout New England for nearly a century, and losing them is not an option. I am glad the Administration listened to New Hampshire's concerns, and I thank Secretary Rollins for reconsidering the plan to close Bartlett facilities. We need real adjustments. I also appreciate Governor Ayotte's collaboration in defending these treasured assets. The labs and infrastructure at Bartlett must stay operational to support ongoing national research amid emerging issues."

Secretary Rollins affirmed no current plans exist to impact Hubbard Brook or its related sites, and pledged a review of Bartlett proposals.

"The Forest Service acknowledges its importance to local communities, the organization, and research collaborators, and is crafting a five-year research strategy alongside the White Mountain National Forest," the statement noted.

Governor Ayotte noted that she and the secretary explored USDA funding for upgrades at Bartlett Experimental Forest, such as ongoing bunkhouse renovations.

Senators Shaheen and Ayotte sought enhanced staffing for the forests and plan additional talks on the matter.

Established in 1955, the Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest in Thornton and North Woodstock has served as a cornerstone for hydrologic research across New England.