MISSION

The New Hampshire Land and Community Heritage Investment Program (LCHIP) was created in 2000, with the adoption of NH RSA chapter 227-M. LCHIP is an independent state authority which awards matching grants to NH communities and non-profits to conserve and preserve New Hampshire’s most important natural, cultural, and historic resources, and to ensure the perpetual contribution of these resources to the economy, environment and quality of life in New Hampshire.

GOVERNANCE

LCHIP is governed by an 18-member Board of Directors comprising eight members of the public appointed by the Governor and Executive Council, two state Senators, two state Representatives, and representatives of the following state agencies: Department of Natural and Cultural Resources’ Division of Historical Resources and Division of Forests and Lands; Department of Environmental Services; Fish and Game Department; Department of Business and Economic Affairs; and Department of Agriculture, Markets and Foods.

GRANT FUNDS

Funding for LCHIP’s grant programs are generated by a $25 surcharge assessed on four types of documents recorded at county registries of deeds (the “LCHIP Surcharge”). Established by NH RSA 478:17-g, the LCHIP Surcharge has generated an average of $4,000,000 to $4,500,000 per year to the LCHIP Trust Fund, an account maintained by the State Treasurer.

ADMINISTRATIVE FUNDS

LCHIP receives $200,000 per year from the state’s Conservation License Plate program (Moose Plates) to be used for administrative expenses. The remainder of LCHIP’s administrative funding is generated through earned interest, the program’s Community Conservation Endowment (CCE) fund, and the LCHIP Trust Fund.

To learn more, contact Paula Bellemore, Executive Director at PBellemore@LCHIP.org or call 603-224-4113 ext. 14.