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The Rocks in Bethlehem, NH is an extraordinary place. This property managed by our strategic partners, the Society for the Protection of NH Forests, is a Christmas tree farm, a historic retreat, an education center and a 1,400 acre working forest. Thousands of people come to it every year to get outside, learn about the forest and forest industries, and see firsthand the value of the Forest Society’s work.

In February 2019, disaster struck.

Fire devastated the Tool Building, where The Rocks’s classrooms, offices and farm operations were housed. But the Forest Society has a long history of coming together as a team and emerging stronger.

The destruction of the Tool Building exposed both a panoramic mountain view and an opportunity: to create a unique outdoor event space. Plans were developed to convert the property’s historic 19th century Carriage Barn into an energy-efficient education center.

“Many people don’t recognize how important it is to perpetuate and care for forests. There are long-term benefits that play a large role in the economy, both by protecting critical resources and promoting recreation.”

Jack SavagePresident, Society for the Protection of NH Forests

Alnoba is proud to support the efforts to rebuild The Rocks into something even more impactful. We’ve pledged $250,000 for the rebuild in honor of our long-time friend, Jane Difley, who boldly led the Forest Society for years before passing the torch to current president Jack Savage.

The changes will see the property emerge as the Forest Society’s northern headquarters, a center for work to conserve and protect New Hampshire’s beautiful and irreplaceable North Country wilderness.

We were also delighted to bring a load of fresh-cut Christmas trees from The Rocks to the Farm at Eastman’s Corner, part of Alnoba. Needless to say, these beautiful trees sold out within a week.

Best of all? Christmas tree farms like the one at The Rocks provide a valuable habitat for New Hampshire’s wildlife. Learn more by treating your ears to this wonderful episode of the Forest Society’s Something Wild podcast, produced in partnership with NH Audubon and NHPR.