Community Assistance

 

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Community Technical Assistance

The Taking Action for Wildlife team offers direct technical assistance to communities interested in incorporating wildlife and habitat information into their land conservation, land-use planning, land stewardship, and outreach. 

Who Should Apply: Any New Hampshire community is welcome to apply.  Applications are usually submitted by Conservation Commissions, but we also encourage applications from other municipal boards or committees seeking assistance related to wildlife and habitat protection.  

Applications should reflect interest from multiple members of the commission or board, with a strong interest in pursuing a tangible goal or project.   

What to Expect: There is no fee for this assistance. Communities must commit to at least one meeting with Taking Action for Wildlife staff, which can be held during a regular Conservation Commission meeting.  We typically require approximately one hour of meeting time to review relevant wildlife and habitat information and facilitate discussion to help clarify goals and next steps. 

How We Can Help: While applicants should be prepared to do the work required to achieve the desired outcome, our team can support you in accomplishing your goals or project. Below are examples of ways we can support your community. Assistance may help to:   

Outreach and Education

- Design and plan educational events (e.g., talks, walks, BioBlitzes, or workshops)
- Develop educational materials such as signs or brochures 
- Conduct outreach to private landowners about land conservation or habitat management 

Land Stewardship

- Implement wildlife habitat management on town-owned lands 
- Assess and address potential impacts of trails or recreation on wildlife 

Land Conservation

- Identify and prioritize land conservation opportunities using State Wildlife Action Plan maps 
- Develop a Conservation Prioritization Checklist 

Land-Use Planning

- Explore land-use planning tools such as overlay districts, setbacks, and buffers, and assess how they can protect wildlife and habitats 
- Identify which tools are currently in use and opportunities for future protections 

Natural Resources Inventories

- Understand the value of a Natural Resources Inventory (NRI) 
- Receive guidance on creating or updating your community’s NRI 

Professional Support

- Identify appropriate natural resource professionals or consultants to meet your community’s needs 

Additional Project Ideas: Need more details? Here are a few examples additional detailed examples of potential community projects. Got other ideas?  Let us know what you are thinking – even if it’s not listed here! We’re happy to discuss whether your idea falls within the scope of assistance we can provide. 

How to Apply: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Please discuss your interest with fellow Conservation Commission members and submit one application per community. We will follow up within 2-3 weeks of receiving your application. 

APPLY HERE

Questions? Please contact Emma.Tutein@unh.edu