November 2013, Pemi Wilderness Suspension Bridge Removal Update – The remaining debris from the Pemi Wilderness suspension bridge removal project, along the East Branch of the Pemi, in the New Hampshire White Mountains appears to have been removed out of the designated wilderness area. The debris is now outside of the wilderness boundary along the Pemi East Side Trail. However, some debris does remain at the Black Brook bridge site, which was also removed during this project.
Since 2009, when the bridge was removed, I have been making regular trips to the bridge site to document the progress of debris removal. Unforeseen issues turned the debris removal into a 3 + year long project. You can view a slideshow here showing the progression of debris removal over the last 3 years from the bridge site.
The help of many volunteers removing debris over the last three years is the reason why the site looks as it does today. Most of the volunteers will never be publicly known, and more than likely do not want recognition for their part in this project. These are the type of volunteers needed in the White Mountains. They are not looking for glory and are only interested in bettering the White Mountains for everyone.
To this day the Pemigewasset Wilderness bridge removal project causes heated debates among groups of hikers. The reality is Forest Service has stayed true to protecting designated wilderness areas from human impact. I commend them for this. It is exciting to see the Pemigewasset Wilderness a little wilder.
The Pemi Wilderness bridge removal project looks to be a done deal. "Thank you" to every volunteer who gave up their time to better the White Mountains.
Happy image making..
Connect with us on Facebook | Historic Information Disclaimer | White Mountains History
References: Pemi Wilderness, Wilderness Trail suspension bridge removal project
Owner of ScenicNH Photography LLC
Erin Paul is a professional photographer, writer, and author who specializes in environmental conservation and historic preservation photography mainly in the New Hampshire White Mountains. His work is published worldwide, and publication credits include: Appalachian Mountain Club, Appalachian Trail Conservancy, Backpacker Magazine, and The Wilderness Society.
Thank you for posting this update, Erin Paul! This is great news for the Pemi and those who want to enjoy it in a wilder state!