Muzzleloader hunting season for deer begins locally today and runs through November 12. Regular firearms season for deer is November 13 - December 8. Archery season has been underway for weeks. Waterfowl and other bird seasons are also ongoing.
Hunting is allowed in Dunbarton's conservation areas.
Those who will be sharing the woods with hunters are advised to wear blaze orange or another highly visible color and lots of it to make yourself stand out. Do not wear tan or white. If you are out with your dog, make sure it is highly visible too.
The Merrimack County Champion Black Gum Tree
After giving a talk at our town hall this spring, Kevin Martin, the author of Big Trees of New England, visited our Kuncanowet Town Forest and Conservation Area to see Dunbarton’s claim to fame in the big tree arena.
He sent a few photos and this note:
“Letting you know that my grandson and I canoed across Gorham Pond and hiked in to check out the black gum there. The measurements are 111" Circumference, 67' H, and 41' ACS, for 187 points. Thought it to be in fair condition. Was 107" C in 1989 and 111" C in 2010 so seems to have stopped growing.
“Sapsuckers like it. Holes show in the close-up photo.
“Neat spot with a few other large gum within view of this one. Should still be county champ.”
Click on each photo to see full size.
Big Trees Presentation May 7
If you want to learn about the biggest trees in New Hampshire and Northern New England then be sure to attend this presentation Tuesday evening
Wooden boatbuilder, outdoorsman and Big Tree Program measurer, Kevin Martin, will be showing and discussing these trees as described in his new book Big Trees of Northern New England.
You will hear how he got involved with finding the trees, how lumber from similar trees is used in his boatbuilding work, and how wildlife will use these impressive parts of our landscape.
The discussion will cover trees on public land in the region, and where they are located so you can go see them for yourself. He will highlight some trees local to the Dunbarton area.
Books will be available after the presentation for those interested.
The presentation is at the Dunbarton Upper Town Hall and starts at 6:30 p.m. The Upper Town Hall is located above the Dunbarton Public Library.