In the woodland known as “Cathedral Pines” just southwest of Shingle Place Hill, there is a plaque affixed to a rock that states “To the Glory of God and For the Benefit of Man These Woods are Preserved Forever — 1879”.  This commemorates the legacy of the first parcels of land purchased for permanent conservation in Manchester.  A few residents of our Town had the foresight to protect this lovely wooded area in its natural state.

​

Now we know just how ecologically critical it is to preserve large contiguous tracts of undeveloped land.  The soil and trees sequester carbon; all of the vegetation takes up atmospheric carbon dioxide and releases oxygen; the wetlands absorb excess water to prevent flooding — then release it gradually to become our drinking water downstream.  Our woodlands and wetlands provide habitat for countless species of common and rare species of fungi, plants and animals, from tiny insects and mollusks to birds and mammals.

 

Moreover, geologically uplifted and forested bedrock units such as Shingle Place Hill shield us from the noise and automobile exhaust from nearby roadways as we seek the refuge and peace of walking the trails of our beautiful conservation lands.

​

Development of this particular parcel, situated next to Cedar Swamp at the headwaters of Sawmill Brook threatens natural resources that cannot ever be recovered.