- Within Hanover there are numerous scenic locales which give
the town its character. These may include the fields, ridges,
wetlands which are scattered throughout the town.
- The water quality of Hanover's wetlands and tributaries emptying
into the Connecticut River is a major concern.
- The diverse topography within Hanover offers a range of habitats from lowlands to ridgelines.
Hanover is bounded to the west by the Connecticut River and to
the east by the ridge and slopes of Moose Mountain. Hanover's
landscape is defined by a series of hillsides, ridgelines and
valleys running roughly parallel to the Connecticut River. The
Upper Valley, in which Hanover lies, has been shaped by the Connecticut
River and its tributary systems.
Vegetation
Hundreds of years of settlement and development have shaped the
vegetation of Hanover. It consists of predominately forested
lands with open space interspersed with areas of high density.
The rural forested areas of Moose Mountain are protected by low-density
development, which maintains seasonal dwelling restrictions.
However, suburban residential uses are threatening the rural
forested character remaining in Hanover.
Topography
Moose Mountain is visibly the most extensive ridge that runs
north/south through Hanover. It's slopes are the origin for many
tributaries that supply the dominant water bodies of the Mink
Brook, the Hanover reservoir, and Goose Pond. Moose Mountain
is an important visual landmark because many points of Hanover
may be viewed from its highest elevations and likewise, the mountain
may be observed from many of these locales.
Another significant ridge to the west is made up of Velvet Rocks,
Balch Hill, Oak Hill, Lords Hill, and Huntington Hill. This group
of peaks runs relatively parallel to the Connecticut River and
encloses much of Hanover's development. These peaks offer views
of the Connecticut River, downtown Hanover, the Mink Brook, Moose
Mountain, and also to Vermont. .
Water Bodies
The Connecticut River creates a physical boundary between New
Hampshire and Vermont. However, steep and forested topography
currently limit views and access to the river from downtown Hanover.
The Mink Brook is one of Hanover's most unique resources.
With its origins connected to Moose Mountain, the river flows
to the Connecticut River, passing through Etna Village. The Mink
Brook is an important environmental resource as well as a linear
scenic corridor.
The Hanover Reservoirs, owned by the Hanover Water Company,
are the largest standing water bodies in Hanover. Although Hanover's
reservoirs are restricted to use, Storrs Pond, Occum Pond, and
Goose Pond are not.
With very few open water resources in Hanover it is vital to
protect those that exist from development and pollution. Without
protection from zoning regulations these important recreation
areas may be lost.
Wildlife Corridors
Hanover's wildlife is consistent with many of the species found
in the northeast. Hanover's landscape is unique because it is
composed of many diverse natural environments. Moose, deer, bear,
raccoon, skunk, and porcupine populate Hanover's higher elevations
because they provide the forested protection they demand. Otter,
mink, beaver, and muskrat inhabit Hanover's lower streams, swamps,
and wetlands for the unique habitat they provide. In addition
to these species, many species of birds such as the Kingfisher,
Blue Heron, Woodcock, Quail, Partridge, and the Barred Owl also
inhabit the Hanover region.
Many of Hanover's conservation lands are protected for fragile
natural habitats of rare and endangered species. Some of the
larger recognized wildlife corridors are Velvet Rocks, Oak Hill,
and the Mink Brook. In addition to these there are numerous smaller
habitats such as Ferson Road beaver pond, the Dogford Road wetlands,
and the field between Greensboro Road and the Mink Brook, to
name a few, are equally important wildlife corridors.