Have you ever wondered where the name “Squam” came from? Have you ever been curious about the first people whose homelands included the Squam watershed? Have you heard about invasive species and the damage they impose on the ecosystem and wondered what the land looked like before the invasion? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then the Squam History and Plant Tour is for you!
As part of the Squam Lakes Association’s Invasive Species Week, Lakes Region Conservation Corps members Christina and Shea will take you on an educational journey through Chamberlain Reynolds Memorial Forest. Participants will learn about the history of people on Squam and the history of specific native plants. The Squam watershed and trails reside on N'dakinna, the homelands of the Abenaki, Penacook, and other Wabanaki Peoples. The stewards of the land, past and present, are essential to the protection and future of the watershed.
It is important to mention that this tour is led by non-indigenous people, and we are still learning. A resource that we have found very valuable when exploring the Indigenous people of what is now called New Hampshire is www.indigenousnh.com.
Participants should come prepared with water and appropriate clothing. Tours are on July 22, leaving at 10 am and 1 pm. Registration is required. However, if you cannot attend the tours, the story walk will stay posted before and after the tour until July 28th! For more information or to sign up for this free Adventure Ecology program, visit the SLA website (squamlakes.org) or contact the SLA directly (603-968-7336). Be sure to check out more free Invasive Species Week events and other Adventure Ecology activities hosted by the Squam Lakes Association!
The Squam Lakes Association conserves the watershed's natural beauty, peaceful character, and resources for the public benefit. In collaboration with local and state partners, the SLA promotes the protection, careful use, and shared enjoyment of the Squam Lakes region's lakes, mountains, forests, open spaces, and wildlife all year round.