In September of last year, after years of work by many local people, the U.S.Congress made it official and approved the national Wild and Scenic River designation for the Upper Missisquoi and Trout Rivers.  This required an extensive study justifying the designation and approval by the abutting Towns.  The Society played a minor role answering questions about the history of our area, and reviewing / providing written input for the nomination.  We also hosted one of their meetings at Pratt Hall.

     Among the requirements for designation is the body of water must have at least one Outstandingly Remarkable Value (ORV) .  According to federal guidelines "to be an ORV the resource must be of local, state, regional or national significance.  It must also be river-related such as:  within about 1/4 mile from the riverbank, contribute substantially to the functioning of the river ecosystem, 
and / or owe its location or existence to the river.  ORVs are recreational (fishing, canoing, hunting, sightseeing...), historical/cultural, scenic/aesthetic, or natural history (wildlife, plants, water quality, geology...)."   Montgomery's covered bridges were among the ORVs which helped qualify The Trout River for the designation.  Once the designation was approved an advisory committee made up of representatives from each Town was formed.  

     One of their missions is to sponsor events that promote a better understanding of the rivers.  They requested we host an event and present a program on our covered bridges.   We agreed and invited the Covered Bridges Garden Club, the Hectorville Bridge Committee, and Montgomery Conservation Commission to join in.  On Oct 4th about 50-60 people attended the event at Pratt Hall which included short pitches from each group and our presentation on the history of Montgomery's covered bridges.  The  Hall was decorated with covered bridge models donated by the elementary school, paintings, a quilt, and we re-designed and printed new pamphlets with maps which we provided to all.  We were honored to have several Jewett family descendants there too who added a personal touch to the discussions.  Attendees were then encouraged to tour the bridges and enjoy the beautiful day.  Sweets were provided by "Sam" Murphy and fresh cider was served.