Mission
The purpose of the Orford Conservation Commission is to promote the proper utilization and protection of natural resources and protect the watershed resources within the Town of Orford in accordance with (New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated (RSA) 36-A, Conservation Commissions.
Japanese Knotweed (“Bamboo”) is invading Orford!
Japanese Knotweed (Reynoutria japonica) is an extremely fast growing invasive herbaceous plant in the buckwheat family (Polygonaceae). Native to Asia, it was introduced to the United States sometime during the late 1800’s as an ornamental plant. Unfortunately, it crowds out native species and can grow at a rate of up to 8 centimeters a day in the spring. It’s found in every state except North Dakota, Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Florida and Hawaii.
Many people mistake Japanese knotweed for bamboo, as the stems are jointed and hollow. Unlike bamboo the plant has large semi-triangular leaves that alternate on the stem. It is a large, fast growing shrub-like plant that can grow through asphalt and concrete and reach 9 feet in height. It has large woody rhizomes that can grow up to 10 feet deep and 40 feet long, and remain dormant for years. It can regenerate from rhizome pieces as small as ½ inch.
What can we do to help control the spread of this non-native, invasive, and potentially damaging plant?
Adopt a Roadside / Adopt a Streambank!
Is there a colony of knotweed on YOUR property or nearby along Orford’s roadsides and byways? Is there a section of Jacobs or Archertown Brook on or near your property already being overrun by knotweed?
Would you be willing to volunteer some of your time to help to stop the spreading of this plant?
The Orford Conservation Commission can show you what to do. It’s easy – no power tools, no chemicals needed – but persistence is essential.
Please join us and join the effort to control the invasion!
Please see links below for additional information.
https://slate.com/technology/2019/05/japanese-knotweed-invasive-plants.html
https://wildlife.state.nh.us/invasives/
https://www.agriculture.nh.gov/divisions/plant-industry/faq-invasive-species.htm
Leadership
Members
Bob Hedges – Chair
Edmond Cooley – Vice Chair
Harry Pease
Alternates
Fran Plaisted – Secretary
Emily Bryant – Asst. Secretary
John Miller
Kevin Follensbee, Selectboard Liaison
Contact & Hours
Upcoming Events
HIKE ORFORD
With the New Year now upon us, it is customary to make resolutions and commitments to a better self.
“Hike Orford” is a great resolution to make as we enter the new year. Let’s do it!
The Orford Conservation Commission has 4 outings planned for the winter months to help you fulfill your “Hike Orford” resolution! As the dates approach, we will be sharing details on the outings. In the meantime, you can mark these dates in your calendar to get the New Year off to a great start:
January 12th, Sunday, we are sponsoring, with the Upper Valley Land Trust, our annual Mountain View Farm Full Moon Snowshoe hike
January 18th, Saturday, we will be hiking up Ten Mile Trail to see the frozen (hopefully) Bracket Falls
February 22nd, Saturday, we will be hiking up Stonehouse Mountain and exploring the just-opened new trail and southern-facing outlook
March 22nd, Saturday, we will be hiking the Orford Heritage Trail from Grimes Hill Road to Indian Pond Road.
Four great outings to get the new year started!!
Mark your calendars! Hike-specific details will be shared as the dates approach. Our January 12th Full Moon Snowshoe Hike is less than two weeks away!
> We will be publishing our Summer 2025 hiking schedule in March. Stay tuned.
