Connect with of how decisions people make in New Hampshire communities affect our economy and quality of life. Lorraine Stuart Merrill and Peter Francese, co-authors of the new book, Communities and Consequences II: Rebalancing New Hampshire’s Human Ecology, show how our policy choices have turned us into the second-oldest state in the nation. Planner Steve Whitman of Resilience Planning & Design LLC joins the authors in sharing compelling case studies of how people are working together to create vibrant and welcoming places for people of all ages and backgrounds, and foster a thriving future for their communities and the state. Learn how these examples (like in Lancaster, NH; photo here) integrate practical and effective historic preservation and creative land use strategies with cross-generation appeal. The current public health crisis and economic uncertainties have heightened awareness of the shortages and importance of essential workers—explore ways communities can provide more housing choices to meet their needs.

Merrill is a writer and farmer. She’s the former commissioner of agriculture, markets and food and a Preservation Alliance board member. Demographer Francese is a speaker and writer on population and consumer trends. Whitman is a professional planner and educator. His work focuses on community planning for “vibrant, resilient and inclusive places.”

To sign up, email projects@nhpreservation.org with "October 16" in the subject line. Co-sponsored by Plan NH.

First-come, first-served. Participants will be sent sign-in information for Zoom video or phone access, and will be asked to consent to be recorded. The Preservation Alliance plans to post the sessions afterwards for members and friends.

Get a copy of the book by emailing projects@nhpreservation.org and enjoy a sneak preview of the trailer for the companion documentary film by Jay Childs, scheduled to debut October 22 on NH PBS.