THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED. WE APOLOGIZE FOR ANY INCONVENIENCE AND HOPE TO RESCHEDULE FOR LATER IN THE SEASON!

The John Hay Refuge was established in 1987 when the Service acquired the former summer estate of John Hay, from his daughter-in-law, Alice Hay. Mrs. Hay wanted the estate to be set aside “… for public use as an inviolate sanctuary for migratory birds, as a migratory bird and wildlife reservation…” The Refuge originally comprised 164 acres including the family residence, a gate house, lake shore house, and garage. In 2008, the Service transferred 84 acres, including all the buildings to The Fells, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the Hay Family Estate. The remaining 80-acre refuge, when combined with The Fells property, includes the longest stretch of undeveloped shoreline on Lake Sunapee. Habitats include an expansive mature forest, a small meadow, shoreline on Lake Sunapee, and Minute Island, just off shore.

Join Steve Agius, Wildlife Refuge Manager with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, as he presents the history and natural characteristics of the Hay Refuge and its partnership with The Fells. The presentation will be followed by an easy to moderate hike into the Refuge.

Meets in the John Hay Classroom in the Gatehouse. Members: free. Non-members: $10. Advance registration requested.

To reserve call 603-763-4789 x3.