Merck Access
Name of Project: Merck Access 
Location: Bloomfield, VT
River: Nulhegan River
Type of Project: Paddling Boat Access
Public Access: Yes
Date Completed: 2015
Size: 73 Acres
Water Frontage: 18,126
Landowner: Vermont River Conservancy
Property Description: This property contains about 73 acres of land with approximately 10,885 feet of frontage on the main stem of the Nulhegan River and an additional 7,241feet or more on the Nulhegan East Branch. The Protected Property was owned by Essex Timber Company and conveyed to VRC in July 2015. The eastern side is bounded by the Nulhegan River East Branch and contains 3 sections. Section 1 is divided by several parcels of privately owned land with developed camps; these privately owned “inholdings” are not part of the protected property. Section 2 lies between the Main Stem and East Branch of the Nulhegan River and just south of Route 105. Section 3 is bounded by a railroad to the south and the Main Branch of the Nulhegan River to the north. The two branches of the river converge just southeast of the property and flow into the Connecticut River about 7 miles further to the east.
The Vermont River Conservancy and the Northern Forest Canoe Trail will be working to establish a paddler’s campsite along the main stem of the Nulhegan. Creation of a campsite in this area will increase public access to the Merck property and serve as a suitable campsite location along the Northern Forest Canoe Trail.
Directions: Approximate location: 2361 VT RT 105, Bloomfield, VT
From Montpelier, follow US-2 E for about 30 miles to St. Johnsbury. Merge onto I-91 N, toward Newport. Take exit 23 for US-5 toward State Route 114/Lyndonville/East Burke. Turn right onto US-5 N. After about 2 miles, take a slight right onto VT-114 N. Stay on this road for 23 miles until reaching the town of Island Pond. Take a right onto VT-105 E/E Brighton Road, and follow for about 14 miles. The property will be on the right approximately half a mile after crossing the railroad tracks. There is a cleared parking pull-off in front of the neighboring Dumaine property, marked with a Vermont River Conservancy sign.
