Walpole, NH (February 7, 2025) – Monadnock Outdoors has created an Adaptive Recreation Survey to identify adaptive outdoor recreation interests in the Monadnock region of New Hampshire to improve access and supports for people with adaptive recreation interests and their caregivers. 

Our goal is for community members of all abilities to feel welcome, and have the information they need to get more involved with Monadnock Outdoors!

Monadnock Outdoors is seeking survey responses from individuals with adaptive outdoor recreation interests or caregivers of individuals with adaptive outdoor recreation interests.

Additionally we are seeking service providers in our region to share this survey within their community and networks!

The survey, an outreach toolkit for sharing the survey, additional information on Monadnock Outdoors' programs and resources can be accessed, here!

Monadnock Outdoors is a partnership of community leaders dedicated to building a healthier, more connected community where individuals thrive by engaging with nature and maintaining an active lifestyle.

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Our goal is to promote physical activity, active transportation, and a love for the outdoors to contribute to the overall well-being and vitality of the Monadnock region.

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As one of the six Workgroups of the Healthy Monadnock Alliance, Monadnock Outdoors is committed to advancing active living in the region, ensuring that all residents have the knowledge, confidence, and motivation to get active and connect with nature and our community. By collaborating with local organizations and community members, we aim to create a supportive environment that fosters a culture of well-being and outdoor recreation.

This initiative is made possible by Cheshire Medical Center's Healthy Monadnock Alliance.

Through this survey we hope to do the following: 

- Identify a list of adaptive recreation equipment that would suit the interests of our community, and what would be most universally helpful to prioritize purchasing.

- Identify critical access points for outdoor recreation and what improvements need to be made to ensure they are suitable for adaptive recreation.

- Identify ways to improve the region’s culture on supporting accessibility and adaptive recreation.

What is Adaptive Recreation?

Adaptive recreation, also known as inclusive recreation, supports people with disabilities to participate in recreational activities. It involves modifying equipment, teaching methods, and services to accommodate the interests of participants. 

What is a Gear Library?

A gear library is a free community resource in which community members can borrow gear for their outdoor adventures! Gear can include trekking poles for hiking, camping equipment such as tents, fishing equipment, binoculars, and even kayaks! Monadnock Outdoors currently offers a free Gear Library program through a partnership with the Keene Public Library -- open for use among all Cheshire County community members! Utilizing the gear library is a great way to try something out, save on costs for your next adventure, etc.!

Please note: Survey responses are strictly confidential and will be used for internal purposes only.

For assistance in completing the survey please contact info@cheshireconservation.org or (603)-904-3011

To get involved with Monadnock Outdoors, for questions or additional information please contact Benée Hershon: benee@cheshireconservation.org or 

(802) 518-0993

Monadnock Outdoors meetings are held the fourth Wednesday of each month at 10am via zoom.

The Cheshire County Conservation District (CCCD) serves as the workgroup facilitator of Monadnock Outdoors.

The Cheshire County Conservation District promotes the conservation and responsible use of our natural and agricultural resources for the people of Cheshire County by providing technical, financial, and educational assistance. Our goal is to encourage the stewardship of healthy soils, productive ecologically sound farms, diverse wildlife, productive sustainable forests, healthy watersheds, and clean water to ensure those resources are available for future generations. Established in 1945, the Conservation District operates out of Walpole, NH where we work alongside the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service and other conservation partners. For more information, contact Amanda Littleton at 603-756-2988 ext.4 or email at amanda@cheshireconservation.org

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