Survey Findings

Do community members know about Trescott?

Most community members are aware of The Trescott Property and have visited the property at least once. Of those surveyed, 90% are aware of where their water comes from.

Over 90% of survey respondents had heard of Trescott; almost the same percentage was aware that it is the town’s water source.

  

How do we get community members to care about the future of the property?

It is important to educate users on the role of the property as Hanover’s water supply–the primary goal of the Trescott Property.

Education through signage

Although most of those surveyed knew where Hanover’s water comes from, this has not necessarily translated to a respect for the property as a water source. This could in part be due to the fact that the most common dislike of the property is its signage. Fostering an environment where all permitted user groups, especially hunters, are understood and respected is imperative to maintaining the property as a viable water source.

  • Create signage that illustrates a cause-and-effect relationship between prohibited actions (i.e. letting dogs swim in the water) and the effects this will have on water quality
  • Post an illustrative graphic about the simple water treatment process that encourages users to keep away from the water
  • Post signage, especially in the fall during hunting season, that details the importance of hunting the deer population and how that has direct effects on protecting the water supply
  • Highlight nearby properties where prohibited activities, such as letting dogs off-leash and kayaking/canoeing, are permitted and encouraged
  • Educate users about tick protection when using the property

 

How do we further engage community members?

The most important take-away from the survey is that most people are aware of the Trescott Property, but mainly use the property for walking and hiking. Encouraging multiple uses for the property could increase the number of users.

Social Media

Increasing the social media presence for the Trescott Property to encourage responsible use from people throughout the Upper Valley could engage first-time users on the highlights of the property. Many users frequently visit other properties, so highlighting the unique aspects of the property, like historical signage and wooded trails, could increase usage.

Targeting specific user groups

The most prominent use of the property is hiking: 80% surveyed responded that they use the property to walk or hike. However, certain user groups are underrepresented at Trescott:

  • Hunters: this user group is crucial in maintaining a healthy ecosystem at Trescott, but only 6% of those surveyed are interested in hunting
  • Cross-country skiers: 62% of those interested in cross-country skiing do not do so at Trescott
  • Bikers: 60% of those interested in biking do not do so at Trescott

Reaching out to user groups about the opportunities that Trescott offers could encourage more frequent use and appreciation. Sending out a seasonal email or posting seasonal signs that highlight unique opportunities (i.e. hunting in the fall, cross-country skiing in the winter) might encourage users to visit the property for multiple purposes throughout the whole year.