Ossipee — February 29, 2008 — In a letter issued this week, members of the Ossipee Conservation Commission said the organization is within $19,900 of being able to purchase the Route 16 ‘viewshed’ property in its “Window on the Ossipee Mountains” initiative. Reporting on progress to date, the group said funds have come from donations by 16 businesses, two non-profit foundations and more than 200 individuals as well as from fundraising events.

With four weeks remaining before the April 1 deadline, the group urged those who contributed in 2007 to make another tax-deductible contribution in the new tax year.

Dan Hole Pond Watershed Trust, a local group active in protecting land in the Ossipee Mountains, recently announced it will acquire a conservation easement on the property at the time the property is purchased, ensuring its permanent protection as conservation open space.

The goal of the Windows project is to protect a well-known view of the Ossipee Mountains from Route 16 near Boulder Hill by purchasing land that was at one time used as a golf driving range. The project has captured public interest beyond Ossipee because of the large number of people who travel busy Route 16 on a regular basis.

Donations in any amount can be sent to Ossipee Conservation Commission; PO Box 67; Center Ossipee NH 03814. The Commission can also be reached at (603) 539-4181.