Hinesburg – December 23, 2013 – (RealEstateRama) — The late Henry H. Carse spent much of his life in service to Vermonters. For decades, he served in the Vermont legislature, as the town moderator, and the town school director. Now, through his family, his legacy of service will continue in the form of a new 225-acre natural area that was conserved with the Vermont Land Trust and donated to the University of Vermont by way of the UVM Foundation.
Henry purchased the land in the 1970s. It includes the majority of Hinesburg’s largest wetland complex and contains significant natural diversity. The property abuts his family’s farm, on which they raised Scottish Highland beef cattle. He is remembered as speaking of conservation on many occasions.
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Henry passed away in 2008. In 2012, his family approached UVM, the Vermont Land Trust, and the Hinesburg Land Trust to inquire about protecting the land.
“Our basic interests were clear: to preserve the natural treasures of the land while providing public access and educational programs,” said his son, Henry Ralph Carse.
By donating conservation and public access easements to the Vermont Land Trust and donating the land itself to UVM, the family has ensured that the property will remain undeveloped, open to the public, and its natural features will be protected.
The University will use the land for educational and research purposes.
The property is located east of Baldwin Road in Hinesburg, with views of the beaver pond, nearby hills, and Camel’s Hump in the distance. The large pond and surrounding hills provide a haven for plant diversity and wildlife.
“The property’s wetland, calcium-rich ledges, and uplands have an impressive mix of uncommon species and forest types, including a red maple–northern white cedar swamp,” said Bob Heiser of the Vermont Land Trust.
“Acquiring the Carse conservation land will allow our students and faculty access to a wonderfully diverse landscape for educational and research pursuits,” said Rick Paradis, Director of UVM’s Natural Areas Center. “The area contains natural communities and biodiversity elements not found on other UVM-owned lands.”
The Hinesburg Land Trust raised funds to help cover the costs of the conservation of the Carse property.
“It is fitting that this transfer of ownership is happening during this season of giving,” said Lenore Budd of the Hinesburg Land Trust. “The Carse family’s generosity will be felt for many years as visitors to the property take advantage of the opportunity to enjoy and learn from nature.”
