Thompson and Meserve's Purchase, New Hampshire

2016-09-03 16 54 02 View eastbound down the Mount Washington Auto Road at about mile 6.7 (about 5760 feet above sea level) in Thompson and Meserve's Purchase Township, Coos County, New Hampshire

Thompson and Meserve's Purchase is an unincorporated area located in Coos County, New Hampshire, United States. It is one of the state's unincorporated areas, meaning it is not part of any municipality and is directly managed at the county level. Primarily, Thompson and Meserve's Purchase is known for its vast wilderness areas, making it a significant location for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountain climbing.

Geography

Thompson and Meserve's Purchase is situated in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, covering a significant portion of the northern part of the state. The area is notable for containing parts of the Presidential Range, including the base of Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeastern United States. The terrain is rugged and heavily forested, with numerous rivers and streams flowing through the landscape, contributing to the area's natural beauty and biodiversity.

History

The history of Thompson and Meserve's Purchase dates back to the 18th century when the land was originally acquired through land grants. The name "Thompson and Meserve's Purchase" refers to the individuals who first purchased the land from the state. Over the years, the area has remained largely undeveloped, with its primary use being for timber harvesting and outdoor recreation. The lack of development has helped preserve its natural state, making it a valuable resource for conservation efforts and a haven for wildlife.

Recreation

Outdoor recreation is a major attraction in Thompson and Meserve's Purchase. The area's rugged terrain, combined with its natural beauty, makes it a popular destination for hiking, with numerous trails ranging from easy walks to challenging mountain climbs. The Appalachian Trail, a famous long-distance hiking path that extends from Georgia to Maine, passes through the area, attracting hikers from around the world.

In addition to hiking, Thompson and Meserve's Purchase offers opportunities for skiing and snowboarding during the winter months. The proximity to Mount Washington provides access to some of the most challenging and scenic ski slopes in the region. Furthermore, the area's rivers and streams are popular among anglers, offering excellent conditions for fishing.

Conservation

Conservation efforts in Thompson and Meserve's Purchase are focused on preserving the area's natural beauty and biodiversity. The region is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, some of which are rare or endangered. Conservation organizations and government agencies work together to protect these habitats from the impacts of development and climate change. Efforts include land protection, wildlife management, and environmental education programs aimed at promoting sustainable use of the area's natural resources.

Administration

As an unincorporated area, Thompson and Meserve's Purchase does not have its own local government. Instead, it is administered directly by Coos County officials. This includes oversight of land use, law enforcement, and the provision of certain public services. Residents and property owners in the area are subject to county regulations and policies, and they participate in county-level elections to vote on matters of local governance.