Bear-Paw’s Mission, Vision, & Values
Mission
Cultivate a resilient network of wild and working lands to sustain connections across communities of people, plants, and wildlife.
Vision
A region in which our communities and lands are diverse and thriving, people are nourished by their connection to the outdoors and each other, and we are collectively stewarding wild and working lands for future generations.
Values
We intentionally build community. We value relationships among all Bear-Paw members, board, and staff. We encourage a deep and loving relationship with the land.
We work together in a spirit of friendship and inclusion. We recognize the importance of joy and creativity in our collective commitment to our mission and appreciate the unique gifts that each community member brings to our work.
We maintain flexibility in our work. We rely on informed knowledge, from Indigenous principles to scientific studies, to promote the resilience of natural and human communities.
The Bear-Paw region exists within the traditional ancestral homeland of the Abenaki, Pennacook, and Wabanaki Peoples past, present, and future. We honor them with gratitude and are honored to steward these lands today.
Burbank Woods
Isinglass
North River Preserve
Burbank Woods
Marston Family Farm
Johnsonboro Road Preserve
Open Space Conservation
Bear-Paw's primary focus is to work with landowners to accomplish their land conservation goals through the use of conservation easements. Conservation easements are a proven legal framework that restrict the future development of land while allowing it to remain in private ownership. Bear-Paw provides impartial, technical assistance to landowners and often serves as an intermediary between landowners, town officials, and other conservation partners.
Land Stewardship
A conservation easement deed is just the first step in Bear-Paw's promise to protect open space forever. Whether the easement is on a family farm, an undeveloped woodlot, or a public access hiking area, we ensure that the conservation values outlined in the easement deed are being upheld. Our volunteer monitors visit each easement on an annual basis. Bear-Paw works with Towns and landowners to maintain trails and provide guidance on new trail systems, forest management plans, and other property uses.
Outreach and Education
Bear-Paw hopes to get all people as excited about the natural world as we are. Connecting to the outdoors, whether through the diversity of wildlife, growing food, or a dog walk along a scenic road are all ways to enjoy the beautiful region. We hold monthly events to help you connect to your region.