In New Hampshire, conservationists of all kinds are celebrating the resolution of a six-year effort to safeguard the forests and streams of the vast Androscoggin Headwaters. The agreement with Plum Creek Timber last month completes the permanent protection of more than 30,000 acres. It’s the third-largest such deal in the state’s history.

The same tranquil beauty that lures adventurous fishermen, paddlers, and hikers has long made the region attractive to private buyers seeking sites for second homes. The conservation deal will shield the property from development while ensuring the majority of the land remains open to public recreation and sustainable timber harvesting—both critical to the local economy.

“It was important to strike a balance between conservation of critical wildlife habitat and ensuring continuation of jobs associated with managing the many forest resources on the land,” says The Trust for Public Land’s Rodger Krussman. “Our mission is to protect land for people, and this project is a great example.”