MacDonald Lot
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Introduction
The Macdonald Lot is a 78.9 acre forested area that lies between East Foss Farm and Oyster River. Access can be gained through East Foss Farm, off of Foss Farm Road in Durham, NH. The woodland contains old growth comprised of large diameter pines and oaks. Other tree species found in the area are maple, cedar, musclewood, and buckthorn. There have been no management objectives for this property and generally is used infrequently by UNH or local townspeople.
History
The Ray MacDonald Natural Area was originally designated as 13 acres of wooded land that borders the Oyster River. The land was left to the University of New Hampshire in 1977 by Ray F. and Elizabeth MacDonald. The property was purchased by the MacDonalds as part of the Hamel farm. The land was donated to UNH to ensure that it was not subdivided and to prevent further pollution to the Oyster River.
Present Use
The MacDonald Lot is a valuable resource to the university. It contains one of the three natural areas that the woodlands and natural areas office manages. Mountain biking is prohibited on the trails within the natural area to protect the integrity of the property. The plant community in the Macdonald Lot is diverse and it is extensively used for research and education by UNH.
