Help Reclaim Brattleboro-Hinsdale Island

Brattleboro, VT and Hinsdale, NH share a unique resource --- the island.

Unlike most islands in the Connecticut River's 410 miles, the Brattleboro-Hinsdale Island is accessible from both sides, connecting two states in a unique confluence of community and natural-area benefits.

Other than as a transportation right of way, the island has been neglected and largely abandoned for over a century. The Vernon Dam started operations in 1909, and higher water followed by flooding in the first three decades of the 1900s reduced the once 22-acre island to a spit of land carrying NH Rte. 119. The former NH Fish and Game boat launch on the downstream side more recently fell into disrepair, with the State of NH abandoning care for the river access and pull-off area.

As we approach the 100-year anniversary of the removal of the Island Park Pavilion (1927) and the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the island offers a timely opportunity to reclaim river connections and outdoor recreation access to SW NH and SE Vermont.

For Brattleboro and Hinsdale, there's no better way to celebrate the rich history of the river and island as integral to our towns, the region's settlement, and the nation's founding.

We can do a lot with organized volunteerism, but even volunteer cleanups and events include costs for permits, promotion, supplies, and follow-up. Your support, however large or small, will make this work possible. By contributing to the "Island Park Fundraiser," you will support immediate stewardship and restoration efforts of this special resource shared by two states and two communities.

Thank you!