Following the written decision from the New Hampshire Site Evaluation Committee (SEC) regarding the Northern Pass, Stephanie Meeks, president and CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, and Jennifer Goodman, executive director of New Hampshire Preservation Alliance issued the following statements:

“We applaud the decision released today by the New Hampshire Site Evaluation Committee. Denying the Northern Pass proposal is the right choice for the people of New Hampshire,” said Stephanie Meeks, president and CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. “This project would despoil some of the most beautiful and historic scenic landscapes in the country. The official denial of this proposal is an important step in protecting and preserving this national treasure now and for future generations.”

“We understand that today’s decision will likely be appealed,” continued Meeks. “The National Trust will continue to actively participate in the state and federal review processes for this project to ensure that that these cultural landscapes are protected.”

During the Site Evaluation Committee (SEC) review process, the National Trust for Historic Preservation, along with the New Hampshire Preservation Alliance and other intervenors, expressed concerns about the proposed Northern Pass project’s negative impacts to historic resources.

“The N.H. Preservation Alliance is grateful to the National Trust for Historic Preservation for its excellent assistance, and thanks people along the proposed route who shared concerns and information about individual properties as well as significant agricultural landscapes, village settings, and scenic views,” said Jennifer Goodman, executive director of the New Hampshire Preservation Alliance. “New Hampshire not only enjoys a rich history, but also an impressive commitment to civic responsibility and environmental stewardship.”

The National Trust also raised strenuous objections during the Department of Energy’s federal permitting process, citing the harm that the project would cause to New Hampshire’s cultural landscapes.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation has been advocating for the protection of this significant landscape since 2011 and designated the site a National Treasure in 2015.