The Charles Bean Conservation Area was donated to the Town of Hebron in 1970 by Charles D. Bean. When writing the property deed, Bean assigned two responsibilities to the Town of Hebron and the Hebron Conservation Commission: “to preserve for the foreseeable future the area’s present natural beauty free from roads, trails, swimming and camping areas, and all man-made structures” and “to maintain the area in such a way as to promote the conservation of wildlife.”
This area has recently become a popular “shallows” area for boaters. There is a sandy beach that juts out from the property – seemingly an inviting place to spend a summer afternoon – but the results of human activity on the beach and surrounding land areas have, in recent years, caused serious harm. Trash, human and pet waste and trails beaten through the once-pristine habitat have all negatively affected the health of the ecosystem. This is particularly concerning considering the special and fragile nature of this sanctuary, which an ecological assessment determine to be a a very sensitive natural community that includes nesting birds and rare species.
While the conservation commission regularly monitored the area and removed trash and human and animal waste, it became clear that the responsibilities required by the deed were not being met—the area was not being maintained in a way that promoted the conservation of wildlife. And the deed is clear on the potential consequences for the town: ‘In the event the property herein described cased to be used in accordance with the stated restrictions, the same shall revert to the said Charles L. D. Bean, his heirs or assigns.” Ceding ownership of the Charles Bean Conservation Area would be a loss of a much-appreciated wildlife sanctuary for the area’s residents and visitors.
In 2020 the Hebron Select Board authorized the Hebron Conservation Commission to place “No Trespassing” signs on the beach areas, but these signs were frequently ignored and even removed, with continued disturbance of the habitat. In 2021 the Select Board will be enforcing the no trespassing status of this area with the assistance of the Hebron Police Department and NH Marine Patrol. Boaters can still moor in the shallows outside of the sanctuary and enjoy wildlife from a safe distance, but are asked to stay off the land and beaches, just as they would any other private property around the lake.
Whether you enjoy the lake by motorboat, canoe, or kayak, please help maintain the ecological integrity of this special resource by not landing your vessel and coming ashore at the Bean Sanctuary. Follow our Northern Newfound Water Trail map and guide to enjoy all the best sights of the northern end of Newfound Lake.
