The last board of the Philbrick-Cricenti Bog’s walkway upgrade project was laid down during the week of October 6 in New London. This marks the completion of the project, which began in June of 2022. The work was performed by volunteer members from New London Conservation Commission, established in 1965, as well as the trail maintenance team and, most notably, by local resident Don Bartlett, who was the chief engineer, carpenter, and laborer.

The aluminum walkway was installed by High Country Aluminum Products. Robert Brown, the chairperson of the New London Conservation Commission, identified the need to upgrade the walkways so that people of all ages and abilities can access the “natural gem” of New London. Brown is quick to point out that the project was completed with privately donated funds totaling almost $230,000.00. A big thank you to all who donated.

The need for the upgrade was due to the increase in visitation to the bog. The log book identified visitors from 28 states and five countries in just one year. Further evidence that the walkways needed a safety upgrade was mentioned by writer Nicole Whitley in an article in the July/August 2019 edition of the New Hampshire Wildlife Journal. She wrote about the qualities of the bog and encouraged people to visit. However, she stated that the trail was “not suitable for very young children” and visitors should have a “good sense of balance” to navigate the two board walkways.

The completed Walkways Project now makes the Philbrick-Cricenti Bog safely accessible to
families and visitors of all ages. The wooden sections are now 32 inches wide and the aluminum sections are 36 inches wide, with a hand railing in many locations.

In addition to the upgraded walkways, 15 interpretive signs have been installed along the
walkways describing the unique plants and animals that thrive in this “kettle top” bog. The Philbrick-Cricenti Bog is a wonderful natural experience and has been recognized by
VisitNH.gov as one of the six most biodiverse landscapes to visit. To learn more, check out www.nl-nhcc.com.