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NOTE FROM ANDY

Hello everyone! We had a BLAST at Granite Goodness LIVE on Nov. 20. BIG thank you to our sponsor Grappone Automotive, the Rex Theatre, and our panelists Corinne Benfield, Mike Skelton, Steve Turner, and Shana Brunye.

We’ll be dropping the recording of the live show this week, so stay tuned!

Don’t miss last weeks episode featuring Anthony S. Poore and Jo Porter from the New Hampshire Center for Justice & Equity (thanks for our friends at NH Possible!)

SPONSOR

We’re often told the world is falling apart. Indeed, the loudest headlines focus endlessely on what’s going wrong. At Granite Goodness, we highlight the other half of the story… the steady, often quiet progress that real people create every day across our corner of the world.

Many challenges that once felt overwhelming are now improving because tons of people worked to make things better. The same is true for local stories of progress.

That spirit of optimism and possibility is why I’m proud to have Grappone Automotive sponsor this newsletter.

If you’d met the Grappones in 1924, you’d only have a picture of some scrappy Italians who operate and run a small gas station in NH. Missing from that impression would be the thriving business and community ecosystem built from the family over the next century, and the thousands of people who helped to make that happen.

Amanda Grappone, their fourth generation steward, joined me earlier this year on Granite Goodness to share that journey, also joining us at Granite Goodness LIVE!

In honor of their 100 years of service to New Hampshire, we also compiled 100 local stories of Granite Staters making the world better in 2025.

Thank you to Amanda and the entire Grappone family for their support of Granite Goodness and for being our presenting sponsor at Granite Goodness: LIVE!

And now, enjoy some good news : )

-Andy

GRANITE GREENERY - Sustainability & Environment

New Hampshire launches ASPIRE to accelerate homegrown clean energy

New Hampshire’s Community Power Coalition has launched ASPIRE, a new program giving renewable developers a stable, predictable path to build more local clean-energy projects. With seven proposals already in and 68 member communities involved, ASPIRE is poised to boost affordable, community-driven clean energy across the state. - NH Community Power Coalition

New England’s last coal plant switches off for good

In Bow, NH, the Merrimack Station coal plant has closed three years ahead of schedule, ending coal use across all of New England. The site will be reborn as a clean-energy hub with solar and battery storage, and advocates say the transition will meaningfully shrink the region’s carbon footprint. - NH Bulletin

Newport bets on trails, Main Street, and the river

Newport is leaning into the outdoor economy with help from the EPA’s Recreation Economy for Rural Communities program. The town is working to better connect Main Street to the Sugar River Rail Trail and regional paths, update wayfinding, boost walkability, draw more visitors, and fold in flood protection and ecosystem restoration at the same time. - Northern Border Regional Commission

Lancaster runs its transfer station on sunshine

Lancaster, NH has built what is believed to be the region’s first off-grid municipal transfer station, powered entirely by solar panels and electric equipment. Grants covered nearly half the cost, and the new system cuts diesel use, trims utility bills, and shows how electric loaders plus rooftop arrays can save towns thousands of dollars each year. - Construction Equipment Guide

GRANITE GRIT - Building & Infrastructure

New Hampshire on track for universal broadband by 2026

New Hampshire officials say the state is now positioned to reach 100 percent broadband access by 2026, years ahead of schedule. Updated federal rules let the state use a wider mix of technologies, including satellite, to reach the last few thousand unserved locations. With funding allocated and providers lined up, New Hampshire is close to ensuring every home and business can get online. - NH Business Review

New program accelerates affordable workforce housing in New Hampshire

New Hampshire is launching InvestNH 2.0, a 7 million dollar initiative that gives communities and developers new tools to speed up affordable workforce housing. The program funds redevelopment, site work, safety upgrades, and construction, helping bring projects to life faster and ensuring at least 20 percent of units remain affordable for working families. - NH BEA

Allenstown upgrades its wastewater plant to protect the Merrimack

Allenstown is beginning an $11 million overhaul of its wastewater facility, adding new clarifiers and modern systems that will send cleaner water into the Suncook and Merrimack Rivers. It’s a small town project with big downstream benefits, helping safeguard a watershed shared by nearly 200 New England communities. - Hoyle Tanner

Monadnock region secures $65 million for safer roads and stronger connections

New Hampshire’s new 10-year transportation plan brings about $65 million in investment to the Monadnock region. Communities across the area will see safer roads, upgraded bridges, and new pedestrian connections. - Monadnock Ledger Transcript

GRANITE GROWTH - Economy & Workforce

Plymouth State builds a rural opioid response talent pipeline

Thanks to a $1.56 million federal grant, PSU is launching the Plymouth Area Rural Opioid Training Collaborative, a program that will train more behavioral health professionals, fund paid fellowships, and build a stronger regional network for medication assisted treatment. - Plymouth State University

A new apprenticeship strengthens NH’s early-childhood workforce

A partnership across ApprenticeshipNH, River Valley Community College, and Head Start is launching a new apprenticeship model that blends 4,000 hours of paid work with coursework leading to a degree. It’s built to ease New Hampshire’s shortage of early-childhood educators. - Apprenticeship NH

New Hampshire invests nearly 2 million dollars to fuel small business growth

New Hampshire is directing $1.99 million to eight organizations that help entrepreneurs sharpen their skills, access coaching, and secure the tools they need to launch and grow. The funding will support 339 small business owners statewide and strengthens the local networks that make New Hampshire’s startup community thrive. - NH CDFA

NH program helps hundreds step into nursing careers

Elliot Hospital’s Granite State Partners Program has supported 300 aspiring nurses, bringing together more than 40 partners to remove barriers like tuition, childcare, and transportation. - Manchester Ink Link

GRANITE GADGETS - Science & Innovation

New Hampshire continues to emerge as a rising powerhouse in life sciences

New Hampshire’s life sciences sector is surging, with industry establishments up 87 percent and employment up 28 percent since 2019. With more than 50 companies now in the NH Life Sciences network, the state is fast becoming a regional hub for biotech and medical technology. - Manchester InkLink

UNH opens new cleanroom to power advanced research

UNH has unveiled a new ISO7 cleanroom at the John Olson Advanced Manufacturing Center, giving students, researchers, and local companies access to a cutting-edge space for microelectronics, space technology, and precision manufacturing. - UNH Today

Manchester mill aims to revolutionize organ donation

A historic mill in Manchester’s Millyard has been renewed as a modern United Therapeutics research center, where scientists are developing 3D-printed structures that could eventually support lab-grown lungs. - NH Business Review

GRANITE GRATITUDE - Nonprofits & Public Sector

Record $40 million gift boosts opportunities for New Hampshire students

Saint Anselm College has received a historic $40 million gift from Robert and Beverly Grappone, strengthening programs in business, the humanities, nursing, and campus life. - Philanthropy News Digest

Moody’s upgrade signals stronger, more reliable care for New Hampshire residents

Moody’s decision to raise Elliot Health System’s bond rating from A3 to A2 shows that New Hampshire’s healthcare network is becoming more stable, well-resourced, and prepared to deliver high-quality care. - Manchester Ink Link

NH Speedway grants fuel new opportunities for New England youth

Speedway Children’s Charities New Hampshire awarded $155,600 to 43 nonprofits across the region, helping to expand mentoring, arts, education, and a range of confidence building outlets for kids across New England. - NH Motor Speedway

That’s it for this edition of the Good News in New Hampshire Newsletter! We also post on Instagram, Linkedin, and Facebook. Be sure to check out our other newsletter covering all of New England!

Stay tuned for upcoming newsletters covering Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. Learn about the people behind these stories on our podcast. You can customize what you recieve from us here.

This newsletter is shared in partnership with our friends at NH Rocks and The Granite Post. Subscribe to the Granite Post here for NH news you can use!

Hungry for other stories of progress, innovation, and good news beyond the borders of New England? Check out our friends at or The Progress Network.

If you are interested in sponsoring this newsletter or partnering with us, please reach out at hello@granitegoodness.com.

-Andy

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NOTE FROM ANDY

Don’t miss our interview this week with Seacoast Eat Local! Coming out Wed.

Be sure to check out our new statewide newsletters for each state in New England, rolling out over the next couple weeks. You can adjust your subscription preferences if you’d like to to receive any of these here.

IN THIS EDITION

New Hampshire expands Community Power to nearly half the state, invests millions in EV charging and clean energy, and reaches national highs in air quality. Big housing projects in Concord, Dover, Portsmouth, and Laconia signal momentum on affordability. UNH and Dartmouth drive breakthroughs in sustainability, AI, and space research, while nonprofits help cut opioid deaths, erase millions in medical debt, and strengthen mental health care.

SPONSOR

This is a special newsletter. It’s a compilation of my favorite stories from 2025 (so far!), following up a similar roundup at the end of 2024:

We’re often told that the current year is uniquely terrible, that everything is falling apart, and that hope for a better future is naive and stupid. Certainly, if you only pay attention to the worst headlines, it can feel that way.

But at Granite Goodness, we tell a different story.

Most big problems build slowly. By the time they reach the news cycle, it’s easy to present them in an overture of overwhelm and terror.

Absent from this pattern is a glaring question, though: what happens next? Once the spotlight for an awful thing moves on, where are the smart people mobilized to do something about it? Who is talking about them?

Take a scan of today’s headlines and you might miss for example, that the United States has possibly entered the first period on record where every major cause of premature death (car crashes, murder, obesity, overdoses) is declining together. (thanks for pointing this out !). Or that we are on track to achieve a historic low in the number of people imprisoned in America.

All of these problems were once presented as overwhelming— hopeless even— capturing the attention of many media cycles. But quietly over time, millions of people collaborated, innovated, and worked to make it better. If all one saw was the initial snapshot of a problem, you’d miss the world of possibility that came afterward.

This is why I wanted Grappone Automotive to sponsor this newsletter.

Grappone is an extraordinary company, employing hundreds of people with a stellar reputation for integrity and service. Amanda Grappone— the 4th generation steward of the business— joined me earlier this year on Granite Goodness to talk about her book, celebrating the 100 year journey of her family’s company.

If you’d met the Grappones in 1924, you’d only have a picture of some scrappy Italians who operate and run a small gas station in NH. Missing from that impression would be the thriving business and community ecosystem built from the family over the next century, and the thousands of people who helped to make that happen.

In that same spirit of possibility, here are 100 local stories of Granite Staters making the world better this year, honoring 100 years of legacy and service to New England.

Many thanks to Amanda, and the whole Grappone family for their support!

-Andy

GRANITE GREENERY - Sustainability & Environment

1. Community Power rates adjust as local energy progress accelerates

   Starting August 1, 2025, Community Power rates will rise to 13.2–13.7¢ per kWh, still lower than increases from traditional utilities. Thanks to strong local advocacy, customers won’t see extra charges from past utility losses. The Community Power Coalition of New Hampshire is also moving forward with new local energy projects, like a 5MW solar array in Warner set to power 1,200 homes. — Community Power Coalition of New Hampshire

2. Great Bay Changemakers Program builds local leadership for clean water

   The Great Bay Changemakers program is empowering residents across New Hampshire’s coastal watershed to take action for clean water through hands-on Bootcamps, community events, and civic engagement training. Backed by the NH Charitable Foundation and Great Bay 2030, the program helps participants understand how local decisions impact river health. – National Estuarine Research Association (NERRA)

3. Forest society celebrates 200th conserved property with Bean Forest in Farmington

   The Society for the Protection of NH Forests has reached a major milestone, announcing its 200th conserved forest—the 280-acre Bean Forest in Farmington. With this latest addition, the Forest Society now conserves nearly 67,000 acres across New Hampshire. – Society For the Protection of NH Forests

4. NH wins $15 million for EV charging infrastructure

   The New Hampshire Department of Transportation will receive $15 million to expand public EV charging infrastructure statewide, enhancing access in both urban and rural areas. The project will install 199 charging ports across nine regions, supporting the state’s transition to electric vehicles and promoting sustainable transportation. - US Dept. of Transportation

5. UNH to help design nature based solutions for marginalized communities

   UNH is leading a $6 million project, Equitable Nature-based Climate Solutions (ENACTS), to develop Nature-based Solutions (NBS) for climate resilience in medium-sized cities like Manchester, which will serve as one of the project’s key hubs. ENACTS will engage local communities to design socially equitable strategies—such as tree programs, public parks, and stormwater controls—aimed at addressing climate-related flooding and heat island effects. - UNH Today

6. NH makes progress in food waste reduction

   Earlier this year, New Hampshire implemented a groundbreaking food waste law aimed at reducing landfill use, cutting methane emissions, and providing new opportunities for food recovery, composting, and job creation. The law requires facilities generating over a ton of food waste weekly to redirect it to recovery or processing facilities, supported by a $500,000 grant program and infrastructure development, with the goal of cutting solid waste disposal by 25% by 2030 and 45% by 2050. - NH Bulletin

   Shout out to Granite Goodness guest Tom Irwin, who wrote this article!

7. UNH earns highest possible sustainability ranking for 3rd year in a row

   The University of New Hampshire (UNH) earned a platinum rating from AASHE’s STARS program, making it one of only eight U.S. institutions and the only one in New England to achieve this top sustainability status. UNH’s efforts include sustainability courses in 90% of departments, research in 84% of areas, and initiatives like thermal energy storage and sustainable dining. - University of New Hampshire

   Shout out to Granite Goodness guests Fiona Wilson and Dovev Levine, who lead and support UNH’s sustainability work!

8. Millions in federal funds assist NH energy efficiency and emission reduction measures

   U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen celebrated the allocation of $70 million in federal funding from the Inflation Reduction Act to New Hampshire, part of a total $150 million secured for energy efficiency and clean energy programs in the state. These funds will help Granite Staters lower home energy costs through initiatives like home energy rebates, weatherization for low-income households, heat pump adoption, and solar programs, while also supporting workforce training and grid resilience projects. - Senator Jeanne Shaheen

9. Community Power now reaches nearly half of New Hampshire residents

   As of 2025, nearly half of New Hampshire’s population has access to Community Power programs, giving towns and cities more control over their electricity sources and pricing. Since the 2019 law enabled local energy aggregation, 46 communities—including Concord—have joined the initiative, helping residents access affordable and renewable energy options while shaping the future of the state's energy landscape. – Concord Monitor

10. Seacoast towns team up for clean energy in regional challenge

    Dover, Durham, Exeter, Newmarket, and Portsmouth joined forces for the Seacoast Energy Challenge, a six-month initiative to boost participation in renewable energy through local Community Power programs. The effort led to over 100 new opt-ups to cleaner electricity, saving an estimated 80 tons of CO₂ and showing the power of community-driven climate action. – Community Power Coalition of New Hampshire

11. NH awards $3.3M in LCHIP grants to protect land, water, and historic sites

    The Land and Community Heritage Investment Program (LCHIP) has awarded $3.3 million in matching grants to 26 projects across New Hampshire, supporting the conservation of over 3,300 acres and the rehabilitation of 14 historic buildings. Notable awards include expansions to the Morse Preserve in Alton and the protection of Campton Bog—critical steps for preserving wildlife habitat, water resources, and climate resilience. – Society for the Protection of NH Forests

12. NH Food Alliance launches strategic food system plan

    New Hampshire’s new Food and Agriculture Strategic Plan offers a clear, actionable roadmap to grow the state’s farms, fisheries, and food businesses. With over 140 recommendations from 30+ organizations, it aims to boost viability, attract investment, and promote equity—empowering stakeholders to drive lasting, system-wide change. - NH Food Alliance

13. New Hampshire launches registry of carbon credit properties

    New Hampshire has unveiled a new registry highlighting over 182,000 acres of forest enrolled in carbon credit programs, showcasing the state’s growing role in climate solutions by preserving trees to absorb carbon. Supporters see it as a forward-thinking step that balances environmental stewardship with transparency, while lawmakers explore ways to ensure local economies also benefit. - NH Bulletin

14. Successful cap & trade program eyes expansion

    The Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI)— of which New Hampshire is a member— is entering a new chapter of opportunity, as East Coast states explore ways to expand and strengthen this successful cap-and-invest program. With billions already reinvested in clean energy and emissions cut in half, RGGI stands as a proven model for state-led climate leadership. - NH Bulletin

15. New Group Solar Project to Expand Renewable Energy for NH Communities

    A new 5-megawatt solar project in Warner, NH—developed by Encore Renewable Energy and supported by the Community Power Coalition of New Hampshire (CPCNH)—will provide clean, low-cost electricity to public entities through the state's group net metering program. - Community Power Coalition of New Hampshire

16. Portsmouth Moves to Protect Drinking Water with $1.47M Easement

    Portsmouth will acquire a conservation easement on 44.6 acres near the Bellamy Reservoir, the city’s largest drinking water source, to prevent development and protect water quality from runoff contamination. Backed by state and federal grants totaling $1.48 million, the project could come at no cost to the city and has strong support from local leaders, clean water advocates, and the community. – Portsmouth Herald

17. New Hampshire Counties Among Cleanest in U.S. for Air Pollution

    Hillsborough, Belknap, and Grafton counties ranked among the cleanest in the nation for air quality in the American Lung Association’s 2025 “State of the Air” report. With no high ozone days in Belknap and Grafton and consistently low pollution levels across the state, New Hampshire continues to be a leader in clean air. – Patch News

18. Community power expands to 20 new communities, saving them ~$1.4 million

    In their most recent quarterly update, the Community Power Coalition of NH has announced that Community Power service now covers 75 communities across the state, representing ~170,000 customers. The 20 new communities are projected to save customers ~$1.4 million in their first four months of service. - Community Power Coalition of NH

19. ~$1M awarded to NH for Merrimack River watershed protection

    Nearly $1 million in federal funding is coming to New Hampshire for conservation work in the Merrimack River watershed as part of a $139 million coastal resilience grant program. The funds will support stream-crossing projects to restore habitats for native species like brook trout and American eel while mitigating flood risks. - NH Business Review

20. SELT conserves 28-acre Brentwood property for wildlife and farming

    SELT has completed the conservation of the 28-acre Fuller property in Brentwood, ensuring its protection for wildlife connectivity and future farming. Funded by the Town of Brentwood, SELT donors, and grants, the easement includes an option to purchase at agricultural value to keep the land actively farmed. - SELT

GRANITE GRIT - Building & Infrastructure

21. New Hampshire Housing Supply Coalition launches

    A new statewide coalition— spearheaded by the NH Business and Industry Association— is uniting business leaders, realtors, and advocates to push for bold housing solutions in New Hampshire, focusing on land use reform, streamlined permitting, and funding support. With housing shortages threatening the state’s economy and workforce, the effort signals growing momentum to make New Hampshire more affordable, vibrant, and competitive. - WMUR

    Shout out to Granite Goodness alums Mike Skelton and Corinne Benfield for leading and participating in this group!

22. Executive Council allocates $50 million for new manufacturing facility

    The New Hampshire Executive Council approved a $50 million bond to support GreenSource Fabrication’s new manufacturing facility in Charlestown, which will produce sustainable Ultra High-Density Interconnect (UHDI) printed circuit boards and create up to 100 new jobs. - NH Business Finance Authority

23. State expansion of broadband reaches 60% completion

    New Hampshire’s $90 million broadband expansion plan has surpassed the halfway mark, with 28,000 of 48,000 targeted addresses now having access to high-speed internet, according to the Department of Business and Economic Affairs (BEA). - Broadband Communities

24. Laconia planning 2,000 new homes

    The proposed Laconia Village development would add 2,000 homes and approximately 3,500 residents over a decade, significantly expanding the city’s population and economic potential. - Laconia Daily Sun

25. Northern Forest Center provides innovative solutions for rural middle-income housing

    Through innovative investments and redevelopment projects (like restoring Lancaster, NH's Parker J. Noyes building) and creating affordable middle-class housing, the center is fostering vibrant, sustainable communities while attracting workers, families, and new economic opportunities to the region. - Daily Yonder

26. Portsmouth has 1,000+ housing units “in the pipeline”

    
    Portsmouth city planner Peter Britz says 1,000 to 1,500 new housing units are in development, potentially pushing the city’s population toward 25,000 for the first time since the early 1990s. - Portsmouth Herald

    Shoutout to Granite Goodness alum & Portsmouth Mayor Deaglan McEachern, for helping make it easier to build in Portsmouth!

27. Affordable housing project in Brookline moving forward

    The project will include 58 senior housing units, 30 workforce housing units, and 10 market-rate units, alongside preserved open space and commercial development, marking a significant step toward addressing housing affordability in high-opportunity communities. - Union Leader

28. 123 affordable apartment units in Concord near completion

    The Pembroke Road Apartments Phase 2 in Concord is nearing completion, adding 84 new units to the 123-unit development by Tamposi Brothers Holdings LLC. Supported by a $3 million InvestNH grant and Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, the project aims to alleviate New Hampshire’s housing crisis, with many units designated for income-restricted tenants. - Concord Monitor

29. PSU Unveils Bold Plan for Housing and Innovation in the North Country

    Plymouth State University is turning campus buildings into much-needed workforce housing and laying the groundwork for a life sciences hub at Tenney Mountain. Plans include up to 30 affordable apartments in Belknap Hall and a future innovation park to expand New Hampshire’s growing tech corridor. - Laconia Daily Sun

30. Tiny Homes Take Root as New Hampshire Embraces Creative Housing Solutions

    Cities like Dover, Keene, Peterborough, and Claremont are leading the way in welcoming tiny homes as both primary residences and accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Thanks to new zoning tools like Dover’s cottage overlay district, developments such as the 44-home Cottages at Back River Road are showing how small-scale living can offer privacy, affordability, and community—all on just 3.5 acres. – Union Leader

31. Laconia Leads on ADUs, Expanding Housing with Simpler Rules and Local Support

    Laconia is at the forefront of accessory dwelling unit (ADU) development, allowing detached and attached units by right across all single-family lots. Recent zoning changes eliminate the need for planning board approvals, making it easier for homeowners to add flexible, affordable housing. – Laconia Daily Sun

32. Federal block grants fuel housing, health, and child care projects across NH

    Seven projects across New Hampshire will receive a combined $3.2 million in Community Development Block Grants, supporting housing, addiction recovery, and child care services. The Roosevelt School redevelopment in Keene will add 30 affordable housing units. In Lebanon, a new inpatient center for pregnant and parenting women with substance use disorder will be built at Dartmouth Hitchcock. – NH Business Review

33. New loan options help NH homeowners build ADUs without refinancing low-rate mortgages

    Three New Hampshire Mutual Bancorp banks are now offering fixed-rate, second-position loans to help homeowners finance accessory dwelling units (ADUs) without losing their low-interest primary mortgages. These loans aim to make ADU construction more accessible as the state looks to expand housing options. – The Registry Review

34. Portsmouth project to add 240 workforce housing units

    Service Credit Union plans to build a mixed-use development in Portsmouth with approximately 240 housing units, primarily offered at workforce rental rates. The project aims to expand affordable housing options for local employees and workers. – Portsmouth Herald

35. Merrimack County proposes major assisted living expansion

    Merrimack County is advancing a $50 million plan to transform unused space in the McLeod Building into a modern assisted living and memory care facility, adding 80 much-needed beds to support the region’s aging population. – Concord Monitor

36. Dover to welcome 88 new affordable apartments near train station

    An 88-unit apartment complex called The Railroad Apartments is set to open this fall in downtown Dover, offering below-market rents and convenient access to public transit. Designed with commuters in mind, the development will provide modern, affordable housing just steps from the train station—opening doors to Boston and beyond at a fraction of city prices. – Foster’s Daily Democrat

37. Construction begins on Village on Technology Hill in Londonderry

    North Branch Construction has broken ground on The Village on Technology Hill, a mixed-use development in Londonderry that will combine industrial, residential, and retail spaces to support economic growth and community living. With 440 new apartments, a childcare center, and major business hubs, the project will create jobs, attract businesses, and provide much-needed housing in Southern New Hampshire. - Manchester Ink Link

38. NH communities lead the way in housing solutions

    New Hampshire Housing’s new report highlights how eleven communities are tackling housing challenges through zoning reforms, community-driven planning, and innovative solutions. With support from the InvestNH initiative, towns like Keene, Bethlehem, and Canterbury have implemented creative strategies such as cottage court districts, cluster developments, and density-friendly zoning changes. - NH PBS

39. Keene receives $1.8M grant for solar-powered pavilion

    Keene has been awarded nearly $1.8 million through the Timber for Transit grant to help fund a $2 million solar-powered pavilion on Gilbo Avenue as part of a larger downtown infrastructure project beginning in 2026. The 230-by-30-foot pavilion will feature 120 solar panels to power downtown lighting and events, while also serving as a flexible space for parking and community gatherings like food truck festivals. - NH Business Review

GRANITE GROWTH - Economy & Workforce

40. New Hampshire ranks #1 in public safety and economic opportunity

    U.S. News & World Report has once again ranked New Hampshire among the best states to live, placing it first in both public safety and economic opportunity, and second overall. Gov. Kelly Ayotte credited the state’s success to law enforcement, business leaders, and New Hampshire’s independent spirit. The Granite State also received high marks for low pollution, internet access, and economic equality. – NH Journal

    Shoutout to Granite Goodness alum Senator Maggie Hassan, whose leadership as Governor helped maintain and enhance New Hampshire’s quality of life.

41. Manchester featured in 2025 best places to live ranking

    Manchester, NH earned a spot on Livability.com’s 2025 Top 100 Best Places to Live list, recognized for its mix of affordability, amenities, and strong economic opportunity. The list highlights cities with populations between 75,000 and 500,000 and median home values under $500,000. Livability’s data-driven approach evaluates housing, healthcare, education, environment, and more. - Manchester Chamber of Commerce

42. Report reveals that NH higher education fuels $7.6B in statewide growth

    New Hampshire’s public and private nonprofit colleges and universities contributed $7.6 billion to the state economy in 2023, supporting more than 50,000 jobs, according to a new report from the New Hampshire College & University Council. – New Hampshire College & University Council

43. New Hampshire leads nation in trade complexity, signaling strong potential for future growth

    New Hampshire now ranks first in the U.S. for the complexity of its international trade—a key indicator of long-term economic growth. With a dense network of advanced manufacturers, especially in aerospace and precision machinery, the Granite State exports to top global economies like Germany and Japan. This mix of high-tech industries and global reach positions New Hampshire for continued innovation and economic resilience. – NH Business Review

44. New Hampshire maintains low unemployment rate amid national trends

    New Hampshire reported a 3.0% unemployment rate in February 2025—well below the national average of 4.1%—with about 754,500 residents employed across key sectors like tech, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing. Despite a slight uptick from previous months, the state’s strong job market and business-friendly policies continue to support economic stability. – Let’s Move to NH

45. State opens assistance program for NH child care workers

    
    A new six-month pilot program in New Hampshire offers tuition assistance to child care workers who earn too much for existing subsidies but still struggle to afford care, capping costs at 7% of household income. The initiative could benefit up to 200 workers and aims to ease workforce shortages while helping more parents return to work. – NHPR

46. Innovative metallurgy firm to open facility in Exeter

    Massachusetts-based Phoenix Tailings plans to open a first-of-its-kind metal production facility in Exeter, NH, aiming for waste-free processing of critical minerals used in electric vehicles and defense technology. The company intends to produce 200 tons of metals annually, hire around 30 employees initially, and move critical metals manufacturing to the U.S. - NHPR

47. Report finds that immigrants make up 7% of NH workforce, provide key economic strengths

    Foreign-born workers make up nearly 7% of New Hampshire’s workforce, including 61% who are naturalized citizens, and they participate in the labor force at a higher rate than U.S.-born residents. A state report highlights that between 2013 and 2023, immigration brought 62,600 residents to New Hampshire, helping to offset an aging workforce. - NH Business Review

48. $8.7 million awarded to towns across NH for economic development

    Thirteen projects across New Hampshire will receive $8.7 million in grants from the Northern Border Regional Commission’s Catalyst program to support rural economic development. Major recipients include $1 million each for a new residential substance use treatment facility in Lebanon, a childcare center in Gorham, and accessible trails in Conway. - NH Department of Business & Economic Affairs

49. Bright future for NH manufacturing as MEP secures $925K in federal support

    New Hampshire’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership has been saved—and supercharged—thanks to $925,000 in federal funding through the CHIPS and Science Act. Once at risk of elimination, the program will now help local manufacturers strengthen supply chains, adopt cutting-edge tech, and create good jobs. With support from the state’s congressional delegation, NH MEP joins a powerful national network driving economic growth and innovation. - Rep. Maggie Goodlander . – NH Business Review

    Shout out to Granite Goodness alum Maggie Goodlander who helped make this happen!

50. Manchester named third-best run city in America by WalletHub

    Manchester has been ranked the third-best run city in the U.S. in WalletHub’s 2025 study of 148 cities, climbing from 18th last year. The Queen City earned top marks for low budget per capita and strong performance in safety and economic strength, ranking 15th and 8th in those subcategories. Nearby Nashua also made the top five, reinforcing southern New Hampshire’s growing reputation for smart, efficient governance. – Manchester Ink Link

51. NH moves up 7 spots in Uhaul’s “Growth States” ranking

    The U-Haul Growth Index for 2024— an indicator of which states are experiencing resident inflows or outflows— shows New Hampshire moving from 40th to 33rd, bucking the northeast trend of decreases in the rankings. - UHaul

52. NH population increases 2.3% since 2020

    New Hampshire’s population has grown by 31,486 since 2020, fueled by nearly 30,000 new residents from other states, primarily Massachusetts, and 11,000 international immigrants. This positive migration trend brings exciting opportunities for growth in housing, the labor force, and school districts. - WMUR

53. New report highlights the strength & diversity of small business in NH’s economy

    A recent report from the NH Community Development Finance Authority states that “small businesses” comprise 99% of all NH businesses, with 49.8% of NH’s workforce being employed by small business. A growing share of these businesses are run by nonwhite or LGBT individuals. - NH Community Navigator

54. NH ranked as one of healthiest states for women and children in new report

    The United Health Foundation has released the America's Health Rankings® 2024 Health of Women and Children Report, offering a comprehensive analysis of 123 health measures from 33 data sources to assess the well-being of women and children across the United States. Notably, New Hampshire ranks as one of the healthiest states for women (#6) and children (#1), followed by Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, and Vermont. - Business NH Magazine

55. Granite State delivers nation’s best taxpayer ROI

    According to WalletHub’s latest analysis, New Hampshire offers the highest return on taxpayer investment in the country—thanks to strong outcomes in safety, education, and environmental quality, all without a state income tax. With low unemployment, low poverty, and efficient government services, Granite Staters are getting exceptional value for every tax dollar. – WalletHub

56. JetBlue adds direct Manchester–NYC flights for summer travel

    JetBlue will launch nonstop summer service between Manchester and New York City’s JFK Airport starting June 12, providing quick, one-hour connections through Oct. 25. The new route is expected to boost international travel options for Granite Staters, offering easier access to global destinations via JFK. – WMUR

57. New Hampshire emerges as a rising hub for life sciences and biofabrication

    New Hampshire is rapidly becoming a leader in life sciences innovation, with more than 1,000 bioscience companies statewide, cutting-edge research institutions, and major investments in advanced medical manufacturing. Anchored by the work of Dean Kamen’s ARMI and the ReGen Valley Tech Hub, this growing ecosystem is creating new therapies, jobs, and educational pathways—while staying rooted in community values and collaboration. – Business New Hampshire Magazine

58. State universities ease degree pathways, saving students time and money

    New Hampshire's public higher education systems have introduced over 100 streamlined pathways to help community college students transition seamlessly into bachelor’s degree programs at Keene State College, Plymouth State University, and the University of New Hampshire. - Seacoast Online

59. UNH and Lonza launch new program to support life sciences careers

    The University of New Hampshire and Lonza Biologics, Inc. have established the Lonza Scholars Program, providing annual scholarships to four outstanding first-year students majoring in biology, biochemistry, or bioengineering, with up to 16 scholars supported by 2028. Scholars will gain mentorship, site visits, and career opportunities, strengthening workforce development in New Hampshire’s life sciences industry. - UNH Today

GRANITE GADGETS - Science & Innovation

60. UNH and Dartmouth use AI to preserve endangered languages

    Researchers at UNH and Dartmouth are using AI to help revitalize endangered languages. Dartmouth’s Rolando Coto Solano is building speech recognition tools for Indigenous languages like Bribri and Cook Islands Māori, enabling faster transcription and language learning. At UNH, grad student Ivory Yang developed NüshuRescue, an AI model that helps preserve Nüshu, a rare script once used by Chinese women. Both efforts highlight how New Hampshire institutions are combining tech and culture to protect global linguistic heritage. – Dartmouth News

61. Dartmouth and IISc launch global academic partnership

    Dartmouth and the Indian Institute of Science have formalized a new partnership to foster international research and education, bringing together top faculty and students across disciplines from both institutions. Through Global Dartmouth, this collaboration aims to spark innovation in fields like energy, engineering, medicine, and more—while deepening academic exchange between the U.S. and India. – Dartmouth News

62. UNH interstellar probe to be launched in 2025 mission

    UNH’s IMAP-Lo instrument has been installed on NASA’s Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe (IMAP) spacecraft, launching in 2025. It will help scientists study how the sun interacts with space by measuring particles from the galaxy and mapping the heliosphere, the protective bubble around our solar system. - UNH Today

63. UNH researchers analyze 700 million aurora images

    UNH scientists have developed AI tools to categorize 700 million aurora borealis images from NASA’s THEMIS data set, improving our ability to study and predict geomagnetic storms. This massive database, collected over 18 years, will help researchers better understand how solar wind interacts with Earth's magnetosphere, protecting critical communications and infrastructure. - UNH Today

64. Prestigious R1 research classification retained by UNH

    The University of New Hampshire has maintained its R1 classification for the highest research activity, reaffirming its position among the nation’s top research universities. With $252 million in external funding, over 1,000 active research projects, and 79 doctoral degrees awarded in 2024, UNH continues to drive innovation and economic impact in New Hampshire and beyond. - UNH Today

65. UNH external research funding grows to $242 million

    The University of New Hampshire's competitive research funding reached $252 million in fiscal year 2024, marking a $42 million increase from the previous year and more than doubling since 2019. This funding supports nearly 1,000 projects, tackling critical issues like ocean energy, agroforestry, tick-borne diseases, and space sustainability. - UNH Today

    Shoutout to Granite Goodness alum President Elizabeth Chilton, who now leads this extraordinary university!

66. Laconia based company works with UNH to build model for space weather

    Scientists at the University of New Hampshire and Rogue Space Systems in Laconia are collaborating to develop an advanced model to predict space weather by tracking electron flux levels in radiation belts, aiming to protect satellites and spacecraft from damage. - WMUR

67. Plymouth State University awarded grant to study seasonal snow

    Plymouth State University has received a $192,000 NOAA grant to develop the nation’s first Snow Drought Index, analyzing nearly a century of Northeast snowpack data to better understand climate change’s impact on winter precipitation and related disasters. - Plymouth State University

68. Dartmouth researchers study plankton’s potential as a carbon sink

    Dartmouth professor Mukul Sharma is testing a new way to fight climate change by adding clay dust to the ocean to boost its carbon storage. Early experiments show clay helps trap carbon from tiny plants, sinking it to the ocean’s depths for long-term storage, with more research planned to study its potential and safety. - NH Public Radio

69. UNH researchers explore antifreeze proteins for breakthroughs in medicine and biotechnology

    A team of researchers at the University of New Hampshire (UNH) is studying how antifreeze proteins (AFPs), found in organisms that survive extreme cold, could revolutionize cryopreservation in medicine and biotechnology. Led by Associate Professor Krisztina Varga, the team is exploring AFPs as a safer alternative to traditional freezing agents, with potential applications in organ preservation, stem cell storage, and food technology. - UNH Today

70. UNH scientists pioneer manure-powered greenhouse heating to boost winter farming

    Researchers at the University of New Hampshire are developing innovative, manure-based heating systems to help small and mid-sized farms extend their growing seasons and reduce fossil fuel use. By turning agricultural waste into renewable energy, the project offers a cost-effective, scalable solution to support year-round food production, cut emissions, and strengthen New England’s local food systems. – UNH Agricultural Experiment Station

71. UNH and UNE patent real-time molecular sensor for medicine and manufacturing

    Scientists at UNH and the University of New England have patented a new sensor that detects molecular changes in real time, with promising uses in medicine, biomanufacturing, and environmental monitoring. The technology uses special polymers that react to changes like temperature or pH, allowing faster, cheaper, and more precise testing than traditional methods. – University of New Hampshire

72. Dartmouth study reveals how songbirds adapt to changing populations

    Using 50 years of hand-drawn maps from New Hampshire’s Hubbard Brook Forest, Dartmouth PhD student Miranda Zammarelli and professor Richard Holmes found that songbirds adjust their territory sizes based on population density. The study supports a key ecological theory and shows how flexible, self-organizing behavior helps birds thrive in changing environments—a finding with major implications for conservation. – Dartmouth News

73. UNH’s CoCo lab turns pandemic tools into scientific powerhouse

    Born from UNH’s COVID-19 testing infrastructure, the Collaborative Core Wet Lab (CoCo Lab) is now powering breakthroughs in wildlife health, water quality, invasive species detection, and pandemic preparedness. By applying high-throughput DNA analysis to everything from moose scat to estuary water samples, researchers are tracking disease, protecting ecosystems, and strengthening New Hampshire’s ability to respond to future public health threats. — University of New Hampshire

74. UNH scientists pioneer ocean mapping technology and application

    UNH researchers helped the U.S. claim 1 million square kilometers of new seabed territory in 2023, a major step toward unlocking the ocean’s vast potential for science, safety, and sustainability. With most of the seafloor still unmapped, their work is driving progress on global efforts to chart the ocean, inform climate models, guide infrastructure planning, and protect fragile ecosystems. — University of New Hampshire

75. Dartmouth trial finds AI therapy chatbot significantly improves mental health symptoms

    In a first-of-its-kind clinical trial, Dartmouth researchers found that an AI-powered therapy chatbot called Therabot led to significant reductions in symptoms of depression (51%), anxiety (31%), and body image concerns (19%) in participants diagnosed with mental health disorders. — Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine

76. Ten new members join NH Life Sciences, boosting innovation and collaboration

    NH Life Sciences (NHLS) announced the addition of ten new members, including Celdara Medical, Mascoma LLC, 3X Genetics, Upstart Sciences, and Sunrise Labs. The expansion reflects NHLS’s growing role in making New Hampshire a national hub for medical innovation, workforce development, and patient-centered research. – NH Life Sciences

77. Record six UNH faculty earn prestigious NSF CAREER awards to advance research and innovation

    Six early-career UNH professors have won the National Science Foundation’s highly competitive CAREER awards, the most in the university’s history. Their projects span climate-ready infrastructure, AI decision-making, reliable cloud software, fall-prevention technology, advanced hydrogels for healing, and ecological monitoring. - UNH Today

78. Dartmouth’s modular robots show real-world potential for disaster relief

    Dartmouth researchers have tested modular cube-shaped robots outdoors for the first time, where they crawled through tight spaces, bridged gaps, and even formed makeshift shelters. Lightweight and reconfigurable, the robots can be air-dropped and quickly assembled, offering promising new tools for disaster relief and emergency response. - Dartmouth

79. UNH aims research o keep rural youth in NH

    UNH professor Cindy Hartman won a $250,000 NSF grant to explore why rural youth stay or leave New Hampshire. Working with teens in three communities, her team will map the messages they hear about success and help towns create opportunities that make staying and thriving in NH a real choice. - UNH Today

80. UNH researchers probe how plastic-eating bacteria impact ocean carbon storage

    UNH scientists are joining a $660k NSF-funded project to study how bacteria feeding on carbon from ocean plastics may disrupt nutrient cycles and weaken the ocean’s ability to store carbon. The team will conduct fieldwork in nutrient-poor gyres and model impacts on the marine food web. – UNH

81. NH-LIFT launches seed grant programs to boost research collaboration

    The NH-LIFT project, a four-year initiative funded by the National Science Foundation's EPSCoR program, is offering Collaboration Seed Grants to foster partnerships among faculty and industry and Catalyst Seed Grants to support graduate students in conducting early-stage research for multi-institutional projects. - EPSCoR New Hampshire

GRANITE GRATITUDE - Nonprofits & Public Sector

82. NH sees 35% drop in opioid deaths, outpacing national decline

    New Hampshire saw a 35% decline in fatal opioid overdoses from 2023 to 2024—outpacing national trends—thanks to coordinated efforts across law enforcement, public health, and treatment networks. Governor Kelly Ayotte and state officials praised programs like Operation Granite Shield and the Doorways initiative, highlighting New Hampshire’s success in expanding access to care, reducing stigma, and keeping communities safer. – Office of the Governor Kelly Ayotte

    Shoutout to Granite Goodness alum Mark Lefebrve, who was instrumental in helping make this happen!

83. NH Gives raises $3.4 Million for nearly 650 nonprofits in just 24 Hours

    In a powerful show of community support, NH Gives raised over $3.4 million for nearly 650 nonprofits across New Hampshire during its 24-hour online giving event. Organized by the NH Center for Nonprofits, the annual effort has now raised more than $22 million since 2016—fueling local impact and strengthening the Granite State’s vibrant nonprofit sector. – Union Leader

84. New study names New Hampshire the safest state in America

    According to a new analysis by High Rise Financial using FBI crime data, New Hampshire ranks as the safest state in the U.S., with the lowest overall violent crime index score of 13.67 out of 100. With remarkably low rates of murder, assault, robbery, and arson, the Granite State continues to lead the nation in public safety. – USA Today Network New England

85. Manchester Police report shows crime down, community trust up in 2024

    In its 2024 annual report, the Manchester Police Department highlights major progress, including a 15% drop in total crime and an 18% decline in calls for service compared to the 10-year average. – Manchester InkLink

86. STEM-MoBILE brings hands-on learning to 12,000+ across New Hampshire

    In its first year on the road, the University of New Hampshire’s STEM-MoBILE delivered dynamic science and tech programming to over 12,000 people—including nearly 9,500 K–12 students—across 45 towns. From May 2024 to May 2025, the mobile lab made 135 trips to schools, camps, and community events, traveling more than 5,300 miles to spark curiosity and expand opportunity. – University of New Hampshire

87. PMAC awarded $625K in tax credits to restore historic south meeting house

    Portsmouth Music and Arts Center (PMAC) has received $625,000 in tax credits from the NH Community Development Finance Authority to help transform the historic South Meeting House into a vibrant community visual arts school. The credits allow NH businesses to direct their state tax dollars toward the project, turning taxes into local impact. – Portsmouth Music and Arts Center

88. NH ranks 10th in nation for adult mental health outcomes

    New Hampshire ranks 10th in Mental Health America’s 2024 national report, indicating a relatively low prevalence of adult mental illness and strong access to care. The ranking reflects positive outcomes across measures like insurance coverage, treatment access, and lower rates of serious psychological distress compared to most states. — Mental Health America

89. $72M in medical debt to be wiped out for NH residents

    Thousands of Granite Staters are getting a fresh start as $72 million in medical debt is set to be erased, thanks to a major debt relief initiative by the nonprofit Undue Medical Debt. The organization recently purchased and retired over $30 billion in medical debt nationwide, and New Hampshire residents are among the beneficiaries. The relief will focus on individuals earning under 400% of the federal poverty level, lifting a major financial burden for many. - NHPR

90. NH improving mental health wait times

    A federal judge says New Hampshire is making strong progress in ending ER boarding for psychiatric patients. Thanks to new beds and community investments through its “Mission Zero” initiative, the state has significantly reduced waitlists—often down to single digits. While some timelines may need adjusting, the judge called the state’s efforts “very, very pleasing,” signaling real momentum toward faster, more humane mental health care. – NHPR

91. Manchester sees sharp drop in overdose rates, projecting lowest in a decade

    
    Mayor Jay Ruais announced that Manchester is on track for a 49% drop in suspected overdoses and a 51% decline in suspected overdose deaths this year—potentially the lowest levels since the start of the opioid epidemic. Officials credit coordinated efforts among public health teams, first responders, and community partners. – City of Manchester

92. NHHRC launches second overdose prevention van to expand life-saving efforts

    The New Hampshire Harm Reduction Coalition (NHHRC) has launched its second Overdose Prevention Van, expanding its reach to high-need areas and strengthening the state’s response to opioid overdoses. With essential supplies like Naloxone and drug-checking strips, the van will provide life-saving resources at no cost, complementing NHHRC’s harm reduction programs that have already reported 964 overdose reversals in 2024. - Manchester Ink Link

93. Liberty House receives $20,000 grant to support veterans’ independence

    Liberty House has been awarded a $20,000 grant from the Service Credit Union Impact Foundation and the Robert Irvine Foundation to further its mission of helping New Hampshire veterans rebuild their lives. The funding will support Liberty House’s transitional housing program, which provides veterans facing homelessness, PTSD, and other challenges with recovery resources, employment connections, and pathways to independent living. - Manchester Ink Link

94. Food access and education program expands after support from NH Charitable Foundation

    With programs in 32 schools and growing (thanks to the NH Charitable Foundation), the Cornucopia Project continues to foster deep connections between children, their food, and their communities, creating a new generation of engaged and knowledgeable food stewards. - NH Charitable Foundation

95. UNH-grown trout helps feed thousands through Gather partnership

    The University of New Hampshire has donated nearly 60 pounds of smoked steelhead trout to Gather, a Seacoast food pantry serving over 10,000 residents monthly. Raised in UNH’s AquaFort—a self-contained aquaculture system cultivating fish, mussels, and kelp—the locally grown trout is both high-quality and sustainable. – UNH Today

96. Mr. Mac’s campaign supports veteran homelessness efforts

    Manchester’s Mr. Mac’s Macaroni and Cheese launched its May “Mac Gives Back” campaign, pledging $1 from every Classic All-American Mac sold to Harbor Care, a nonprofit helping end veteran homelessness in New Hampshire. With around 150 homeless veterans statewide, the initiative highlights community-based solutions and growing momentum to connect more veterans with permanent housing. – Manchester Inklink

97. Manchester donates vehicle to expand addiction recovery outreach

    The Manchester Fire Department has donated a retired SUV to HOPE for NH Recovery to help transport individuals seeking addiction treatment. Dubbed the “HOPE Car,” the vehicle will enhance outreach capacity as overdose rates in Manchester continue to decline. – Manchester Inklink

98. Safer workplaces saves NH money for 14th year in a row

    New Hampshire approved a 6.1% cut to workers’ compensation rates for 2026, the 14th straight annual decrease. The change saves businesses money, protects workers, and highlights long-term progress in safety, healthcare, and the state’s economy. - NH Insurance Dept

99. New Hampshire ranked America’s least corrupt state

    A new Cato Institute analysis finds New Hampshire has the lowest corruption conviction rate in the nation at 0.07 per 10,000 government employees, far below the U.S. average. Known as the nation’s freest state, New Hampshire’s decentralized political system disperses power widely, leaving little room for corruption and fostering a culture of accountability and integrity. - Josiah Bartlett Center for Public Policy

100. NH community colleges ranked best in New England, top 10 in nationally

     New Hampshire’s Community College System has been ranked the best in New England and among the top 10 nationwide by Wallethub. Serving more than 21,000 students each year, the system was recognized for affordability, innovation, and strong employer partnerships that prepare students for careers and further education. - Office of Gov. Kelly Ayotte

That’s it for this edition of the Good News in New Hampshire Newsletter! This newsletter is shared in partnership with our friends at NH Rocks! We also post on Instagram, Linkedin, and Facebook.

Be sure to check out our other newsletter covering all of New England!

Stay tuned for upcoming newsletters covering Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. Learn about the people behind these stories on our podcast. You can customize what you recieve from us here.

Hungry for other stories of progress, innovation, and good news beyond the borders of New England? Check out our friends at Fix The News or The Progress Network (where we are a proud member!)

If you are interested in sponsoring this newsletter or partnering with us, please reach out at hello@granitegoodness.com.

Thanks for reading!

-Andy

Don’t want to recieve this newsletter? Adjust your preferences here.

NOTE FROM ANDY

Here’s another fresh batch of good news, curated for New Hampshire!

For any subscribers who missed this week’s New England newsletter, here are some updates:

• Going forward, I plan to publish a regular New England newsletter, and then an additional newsletter focused on one state in New England on a rotating basis. Today we’ll do NH (as is tradition). There will be slight overlap with the stories featured in the New England newsletter, but each newsletter has 15-20 stories, so the state level ones will have many unique stories not featured in the regional one.

• I may do state level newsletters more frequently— this is an experiment to engage the New England audience outside NH. There are 723 of you now, would love to know what kinds of content resonate with you most!

• You can opt in or out of which emails you’d like from us. If you’d only like to recieve the one covering NH, you can adjust that preference anytime here.

Last week I made new some new friends— AJ Kierstad and Jan Ziegler, check out their podcasts New England Take & It’s Freitag if you want to hear me chat about Granite Goodness with them. Tuesday I released my chat with NH Governor Kelly Ayotte.

Also STAY TUNED for an announcement of the first Granite Goodness live show.

IN THIS EDITION

New Hampshire invests in clean air and climate-smart farming, expands internet and bridges, and restores forests and trails. Research and education thrive with record NSF awards, cutting-edge robotics, and community colleges ranked top in the nation. Safer workplaces, outdoor recreation, and innovative housing policies strengthen the economy, while the state earns recognition as both the freest and least corrupt in America.

SPONSOR

A big thank you to my friend Jesse Lore and the team at Green Wave Electric Vehicles for sponsoring this newsletter.

I can’t speak more highly about Jesse. We first met when he emceed an event for NH Businesses for Social Responsibility— he was rapping in front of a room of 100 people. I thought to myself “who is this modern bard, with a love of electrification and hip hop?”

I think EV’s have all kinds of merits year round, but not everyone knows that the $4,000 used EV tax credit is ending this September. If you’re thinking of buying an electric vehicle sometime in the future, a good opportunity to do so is right now! Jesse is an incredible resource for anyone, who brings his values and personality to every part of his business at Green Wave. Plus, they plant 100 trees for every EV purchased. As Jesse puts it best:

“Save the planet with a really cool car at Green Wave.”

Learn more about Jesse and Green Wave on episode #40 of Granite Goodness.

And now please enjoy your regular dose of Granite Goodness : )

-Andy

GRANITE GREENERY - Environment & Sustainability

State commits $315,000 to clean‑diesel upgrades

About $315,000 in funding is available for municipalities and other public entities to upgrade diesel engines and non‑road equipment, reducing air pollution and improving public health. - NH Dept. of Environmental Services

Grants help 44 NH farms boost climate resilience

The 2025 NH Conservation Districts Climate Resilience Grant program awarded more than $1 million to 44 farms, representing every county in the state. Funding will support energy efficiency, drought‑ready irrigation, soil‑health practices and riparian restoration, helping farms adapt to climate change and improving viability statewide. – Morning Ag Clips

Research innovations boost NH agriculture and forests

The NH Agricultural Experiment Station’s CREATE program is funding projects like sensors to spot soil pests early, genetic studies to guide wildlife conservation, new ways to track harmful cyanobacteria, and research on heat and noise impacts in mussel farming. The goal is to protect crops, wildlife, and water while supporting sustainable industries. – UNH Today

Project underway to restore American chestnuts to New Hampshire forests

As part of the American Chestnut Restoration Project, the Grantham Conservation Commission planted 23 American chestnut saplings on local conservation land. The goal is to double the number of trees, providing future food sources for wildlife and reintroducing a species once common in New Hampshire. – WCAX

GRANITE GRIT - Building & Infrastructure

Fidium fiber expands high‑speed internet to thousands in the Upper Valley

More than 26,000 homes and businesses in Croydon, Grantham, Lebanon, Newport and Hartford are getting fiber‑optic internet, with 6,000 more slated to be connected before year’s end. A state grant and private investment are funding the rollout, which local officials say will improve quality of life by replacing slower DSL or cable connections. – NHPR

Bow and Jaffrey modernize bridge infrastructure

Bow and Jaffrey are upgrading critical crossings to keep their communities connected. Bow is replacing the Page Road bridge with a new concrete arch, and Jaffrey is building a modern bridge over Tyler Brook to replace culverts lost in the 2021 floods. Both projects are state- and FEMA-funded and will improve safety, resilience, and stream health for years to come. – Town of Bow, Jaffrey

Seabrook takes key step to complete New Hampshire’s East Coast Greenway trail

After years of delays, Seabrook selectmen have voted to pursue a management agreement with the state, moving closer to building a long-awaited rail trail that would connect Portsmouth to Seabrook as part of the 3,000-mile East Coast Greenway. The step, funded by the NH Department of Transportation, brings the region nearer to completing one of the last missing links in the cross-country walking and biking route. - NHPR

GRANITE GROWTH - Economy & Workforce

Forestry credential program strengthens workforce

The Granite State Division of the Society of American Foresters launched a free credentialing program with seven modules and field work to train high‑schoolers and adults, supporting the $1.6 billion forestry industry that employs over 12,800 people. - NH Business Review

Safer workplaces save state and businesses money for 14th year in a row

New Hampshire approved a 6.1% cut to workers’ compensation rates for 2026, the 14th straight annual decrease. The change saves businesses money, protects workers, and highlights long-term progress in safety, healthcare, and the state’s economy. - NH Insurance Dept

Outdoor recreation contributes billions to NH economy

Recent UNH research shows that that outdoor recreation contributes 3.4 % of New Hampshire’s GDP and supports roughly 31,000 jobs. - UNH Today

Housing conversion law spurs economic development

Legislation enabling unused commercial properties to be converted into housing and requiring timely permitting is expected to stimulate construction, create jobs and increase available homes. - Office of Gov. Kelly Ayotte

GRANITE GADGETS - Science & Innovation

Record six UNH faculty earn prestigious NSF CAREER awards to advance research and innovation

Six early-career UNH professors have won the National Science Foundation’s highly competitive CAREER awards, the most in the university’s history. Their projects span climate-ready infrastructure, AI decision-making, reliable cloud software, fall-prevention technology, advanced hydrogels for healing, and ecological monitoring. - UNH Today

Dartmouth’s modular robots show real-world potential for disaster relief

Dartmouth researchers have tested modular cube-shaped robots outdoors for the first time, where they crawled through tight spaces, bridged gaps, and even formed makeshift shelters. Lightweight and reconfigurable, the robots can be air-dropped and quickly assembled, offering promising new tools for disaster relief and emergency response. - Dartmouth

UNH helps lead national push to unlock success for Ph.D. students

UNH is joining a national project to make graduate school easier to navigate and more supportive, especially for first-generation Ph.D. students. The effort will provide clearer guidance on proposals, publishing, and conferences while surveying students and faculty across 14 STEM programs. - UNH Today

UNH study aims to keep rural youth in NH

UNH professor Cindy Hartman won a $250,000 NSF grant to explore why rural youth stay or leave New Hampshire. Working with teens in three communities, her team will map the messages they hear about success and help towns create opportunities that make staying and thriving in NH a real choice. - UNH Today

GRANITE GRATITUDE - Nonprofits & Public Sector

New Hampshire ranked America’s least corrupt state

A new Cato Institute analysis finds New Hampshire has the lowest corruption conviction rate in the nation at 0.07 per 10,000 government employees, far below the U.S. average. Known as the nation’s freest state, New Hampshire’s decentralized political system disperses power widely, leaving little room for corruption and fostering a culture of accountability and integrity. - Josiah Bartlett Center for Public Policy

NH community colleges ranked best in New England, top 10 in nationally

New Hampshire’s Community College System has been ranked the best in New England and among the top 10 nationwide by Wallethub. Serving more than 21,000 students each year, the system was recognized for affordability, innovation, and strong employer partnerships that prepare students for careers and further education. - Office of Gov. Kelly Ayotte

Manchester community center nears completion

The 20,000‑square‑foot Mark Stebbins Community Center is under construction on Manchester’s West Side; when it opens in fall 2026 it will house the Boys & Girls Club and Amoskeag Health to serve children and families. - NH Business Review

That’s it for this edition of the Good News in New Hampshire Newsletter! This newsletter is shared in partnership with our friends at the Granite Post and NH Rocks. Subscribe to the Granite Post here for NH news you can use!

We also post on Instagram, Linkedin, and Facebook.

Be sure to check out our other newsletter covering all of New England!

Stay tuned for upcoming newsletters covering Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. Learn about the people behind these stories on our podcast. You can customize what you recieve from us here.

Hungry for other stories of progress, innovation, and good news beyond the borders of New England? Check out our friends at or The Progress Network.

If you are interested in sponsoring this newsletter or partnering with us, please reach out at hello@granitegoodness.com.

Thanks for reading!

-Andy

For more personal stories about progress and problem solving across New England, check our podcast, Granite Goodness, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube, and everywhere else.

Don’t want to receive this newsletter? Adjust your subscription preferences here. Reach out to us with questions or story tips at hello@granitegoodness.com.

In this edition: Community Power rates beat utilities (again) as local solar projects move forward. Great Bay Changemakers train residents to protect clean water, and the Forest Society celebrates its 200th conserved property. PSU unveils plans for workforce housing and a life sciences hub, while tiny homes and ADUs take root across the state.

We are also announcing our FIRST EVER SPONSOR for this newsletter and I couldn’t be happier to give a big thank you to my friend Jesse Lore at Green Wave Electric Vehicles in North Hampton, NH for his support of Granite Goodness.

EVs are great. They’re better for your lungs, your ears, your planet, cheaper to maintain, and way more fun behind the wheel (instant torque anybody?)

But getting one can pose all sorts of questions— are there enough charging stations? What’s up with these tax credits? How long does the battery last?

Enter: Jesse Lore, and his rollicking crew at Green Wave EV— New Hampshire’s first (and only) dedicated electric vehicle dealership. Earlier this year Jesse joined me on Granite Goodness to talk about his mission. It was, dare I say, an electrifying conversation.

You may walk into Green Wave expecting a regular dealership, but you will leave feeling like you joined a movement and a community. If you are at all curious about getting an electric vehicle, they are the people to talk to! Jesse and his team are the embodiment of Granite Goodness.

I myself am an EV owner who lives in northern NH and can attest that people like Jesse are on the front line of helping EV adoption get easier (and more fun) for Granite Staters.

And now please enjoy your regular dose of Granite Goodness : )

-Andy

GRANITE GREENERY - Sustainability & Environment

Community Power Rates Adjust as Local Energy Progress Accelerates

Starting August 1, 2025, Community Power rates will rise to 13.2–13.7¢ per kWh, still lower than increases from traditional utilities. Thanks to strong local advocacy, customers won’t see extra charges from past utility losses. The Community Power Coalition of New Hampshire is also moving forward with new local energy projects, like a 5MW solar array in Warner set to power 1,200 homes. With growing local control and clean energy investments, communities across New Hampshire are building a more stable and independent energy future. – Community Power Coalition of New Hampshire

Great Bay Changemakers Program Builds Local Leadership for Clean Water

The Great Bay Changemakers program is empowering residents across New Hampshire’s coastal watershed to take action for clean water through hands-on Bootcamps, community events, and civic engagement training. Backed by the NH Charitable Foundation and Great Bay 2030, the program helps participants understand how local decisions impact river health—and how they can make a difference. Alumni have gone on to lead grassroots campaigns, serve on town committees, create environmental art, and pass major initiatives like Exeter’s dam removal vote. – National Estuarine Research Association (NERRA)

Forest Society Celebrates 200th Conserved Property with Bean Forest in Farmington

The Forest Society has reached a major milestone, announcing its 200th conserved forest—the 280-acre Bean Forest in Farmington. Donated by longtime member Dottie Bean, the land features scenic fields, woodlands, and views of the Moose Mountains. Proceeds from the sale of the historic homestead will fund permanent stewardship, ensuring the trails and habitat Dottie loved remain protected. With this latest addition, the Forest Society now conserves nearly 67,000 acres across New Hampshire. A public celebration and walk will be held July 13 at the Bean Forest. – Society For the Protection of NH Forests

GRANITE GRIT - Building & Infrastructure

PSU Unveils Bold Plan for Housing and Innovation in the North Country

Plymouth State University is turning campus buildings into much-needed workforce housing and laying the groundwork for a life sciences hub at Tenney Mountain. The Kelly House has already been converted, and more homes are on the way as PSU explores creative ways to support faculty, staff, and the broader community. Plans include up to 30 affordable apartments in Belknap Hall and a future innovation park to expand New Hampshire’s growing tech corridor. - Laconia Daily Sun

Tiny Homes Take Root as New Hampshire Embraces Creative Housing Solutions

Cities like Dover, Keene, Peterborough, and Claremont are leading the way in welcoming tiny homes as both primary residences and accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Thanks to new zoning tools like Dover’s cottage overlay district, developments such as the 44-home Cottages at Back River Road are showing how small-scale living can offer privacy, affordability, and community—all on just 3.5 acres. As more towns consider similar changes, tiny homes are becoming a real solution to New Hampshire’s growing housing crunch. – Union Leader

Laconia Leads on ADUs, Expanding Housing with Simpler Rules and Local Support

Laconia is at the forefront of accessory dwelling unit (ADU) development, allowing detached and attached units by right across all single-family lots. Recent zoning changes eliminate the need for planning board approvals, making it easier for homeowners to add flexible, affordable housing. As the state considers broader reforms, Laconia is setting an example for how local action can help ease New Hampshire’s housing crunch. – Laconia Daily Sun

GRANITE GROWTH - Economy & Workforce

New Hampshire Leads Nation in Trade Complexity, Signaling Strong Potential for Future Growth

New Hampshire now ranks first in the U.S. for the complexity of its international trade—a key indicator of long-term economic growth. With a dense network of advanced manufacturers, especially in aerospace and precision machinery, the Granite State exports to top global economies like Germany and Japan. This mix of high-tech industries and global reach positions New Hampshire for continued innovation and economic resilience. As part of a growing regional hub alongside Massachusetts and Quebec, the state is quietly becoming a powerhouse of smart, sustainable growth. – NH Business Review

Bright Future for NH Manufacturing as MEP Secures $925K in Federal Support

New Hampshire’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership has been saved—and supercharged—thanks to $925,000 in federal funding through the CHIPS and Science Act. Once at risk of elimination, the program will now help local manufacturers strengthen supply chains, adopt cutting-edge tech, and create good jobs. With support from the state’s congressional delegation, NH MEP joins a powerful national network driving economic growth and innovation. “It’s a good day for New Hampshire manufacturing—and an even better one for its future,” said Rep. Maggie Goodlander (who also recently came on Granite Goodness!). – NH Business Review

Manchester Named Third-Best Run City in America by WalletHub

Manchester has been ranked the third-best run city in the U.S. in WalletHub’s 2025 study of 148 cities, climbing from 18th last year. The Queen City earned top marks for low budget per capita and strong performance in safety and economic strength, ranking 15th and 8th in those subcategories. Nearby Nashua also made the top five, reinforcing southern New Hampshire’s growing reputation for smart, efficient governance. – Manchester Ink Link

GRANITE GADGETS - Science & Innovation

UNH Study Highlights Resilient New Approaches to Farming in New England

A new UNH study shows that New England farmers are redefining success—crafting resilient, creative paths to viability beyond traditional food sales. With most farms earning under $25,000 annually, many are thriving by embracing agritourism, off-farm income, community support, and environmental stewardship. Instead of measuring success solely by profit, today’s farmers focus on sustainability, well-being, and keeping land in agriculture. The findings point to a hopeful future for local food systems—one shaped by innovation, adaptability, and strong community roots. – UNH Today

Tiny Wasp Reveals Clues to Evolution and Human Health

UNH researchers have discovered a new gland in Nasonia wasps that may explain how different species court and mate—and offer insights into human development and disease. Led by recent graduate Holly Hoag, the study shows how small changes in head structure can affect behavior, helping scientists better understand evolution and birth defects. The research was featured on the cover of Journal of Insect Science and shows the big impact of hands-on learning at UNH. - UNH Today

Dartmouth Study Reveals Early Bond Between Humans and Pigs

A new Dartmouth-led study shows pigs began their path to domestication in South China 8,000 years ago by choosing to live near humans and eat their cooked food and waste. Using dental analysis, researchers found evidence of rice, yams, and even human parasites in pig teeth—clear signs of close human-pig interaction. The findings highlight how curiosity and adaptability helped pigs become one of the first domesticated animals, shedding light on the early roots of human-animal connection and cooperation. – Dartmouth

GRANITE GRATITUDE - Nonprofits & Public Sector

NH Gives Raises $3.4 Million for Nearly 650 Nonprofits in Just 24 Hours

In a powerful show of community support, NH Gives raised over $3.4 million for nearly 650 nonprofits across New Hampshire during its 24-hour online giving event. Organized by the NH Center for Nonprofits, the annual effort has now raised more than $22 million since 2016—fueling local impact and strengthening the Granite State’s vibrant nonprofit sector. – Union Leader

STEM-MoBILE Brings Hands-On Learning to 12,000+ Across New Hampshire

In its first year on the road, the University of New Hampshire’s STEM-MoBILE delivered dynamic science and tech programming to over 12,000 people—including nearly 9,500 K–12 students—across 45 towns. From May 2024 to May 2025, the mobile lab made 135 trips to schools, camps, and community events, traveling more than 5,300 miles to spark curiosity and expand opportunity. With strong support from industry partners, the STEM-MoBILE is revving up for an even greater Year 2! – University of New Hampshire

PMAC Awarded $625K in Tax Credits to Restore Historic South Meeting House

Portsmouth Music and Arts Center (PMAC) has received $625,000 in tax credits from the NH Community Development Finance Authority to help transform the historic South Meeting House into a vibrant community visual arts school. The credits allow NH businesses to direct their state tax dollars toward the project, turning taxes into local impact. It’s a win for arts, education, and community—and a great opportunity for businesses with NH tax liabilities to get involved. – Portsmouth Music and Arts Center

GRANITE GREATNESS: Human Interest & Our Favorite Stories

Volunteers Help Restore Oyster Reefs, One Baby at a Time

Volunteers at the Jackson Estuarine Lab in Durham spent the morning counting baby oysters—called spat—as part of a project to restore New Hampshire’s oyster reefs. Led by The Nature Conservancy, the effort aims to bring back oyster populations in places like Great Bay, which have declined by 90% since the 1970s. Oysters help clean the water, protect shorelines, and support marine life. The baby oysters will grow over the summer and be placed on restored reefs in the fall, helping to rebuild these important ecosystems. – NHPR

That’s it for this edition of the Good News in New Hampshire Newsletter. This newsletter is free and shareable to anyone anywhere. We also post on Instagram, Linkedin, and Facebook.

If you are hungry for other stories of progress, innovation, and good news beyond the borders of the Granite State, I encourage you to check out our friends at Fix the News or The Progress Network.

This newsletter is shared in partnership with our friends at NH Rocks!

If you are interested in sponsoring this newsletter or partnering with us, please reach out at hello@granitegoodness.com.

Thanks for reading!

-Andy

My name is Andy DeMeo. I’ve lived in New Hampshire all my life.

At Granite Goodness we believe that being aware of progress and positivity leaves people more inspired to create their own. Optimism, kindness, and the will to solve complex problems are infectious qualities.

Also, being an optimist is just more fun.

As a general rule, this newsletter aims to include stories that fit the following criteria:

• The story is in or about New Hampshire

• The story is about something bigger than singular acts of kindness

• The story is about something good— people building, creating, or doing things that improve the world and reduce suffering

Just think- as long as it’s good and New Hampshire sized, it belongs here! If you have any story tips, let us know at hello@granitegoodness.com.

For more personal stories about progress and problem solving in New Hampshire, make sure to check our podcast, Granite Goodness, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube, and everywhere else.

Enjoy!

GRANITE GREENERY - Sustainability & Environment

Mount Carberry Landfill to produce energy from trash

Northern Biogas will begin construction this August on a $35 million natural gas facility at the Mount Carberry landfill in Success, NH. The plant will convert landfill methane into pipeline-grade gas, generating $4.2M–$5.8M in annual revenue for the Androscoggin Valley Regional Refuse District. The facility will process 2,500 cubic feet of gas per minute, occupy 3 acres, and connect to a Berlin metering station via a private pipeline. Construction will take about a year and create dozens of jobs. – Berlin Sun via Business NH Magazine

New program helps communities turn climate ideas into action

The Piscataqua Region Estuaries Partnership has launched the Project Builder Program to help Great Bay Watershed communities transform their climate resilience ideas—especially around heat and flooding—into strong, fundable proposals. This free incubator offers mentorship, collaboration opportunities, and guidance to navigate grant-writing and proposal development. Applications are open now and due by July 1, 2025. Project Builder is the first of two 2025 initiatives supported by Great Bay 2030, with Climate Impact Grants launching this fall. – Piscataqua Region Estuaries Partnership

160 acre Horsepilot Farm permanently conserved

Chris and Jill Rider’s Horsepilot Farm, spanning three towns and key water supply lands, is now permanently protected through a conservation easement with SELT. Funding came from Exeter, East Kingston, Kensington, state water protection grants, and a bargain sale by the Riders. The land includes prime farmland soils and safeguards Great Brook and the Exeter River. – Southeast Land Trust of New Hampshire

GRANITE GRIT - Building & Infrastructure

Federal block grants fuel housing, health, and child care projects across NH

Seven projects across New Hampshire will receive a combined $3.2 million in Community Development Block Grants, supporting housing, addiction recovery, and child care services. The Roosevelt School redevelopment in Keene will add 30 affordable housing units. In Lebanon, a new inpatient center for pregnant and parenting women with substance use disorder will be built at Dartmouth Hitchcock. In Belmont, the historic Gale School will be converted into an early childhood center with 35 child care slots and a new playground. – NH Business Review

New loan options help NH homeowners build ADUs without refinancing low-rate mortgages

Three New Hampshire Mutual Bancorp banks are now offering fixed-rate, second-position loans to help homeowners finance accessory dwelling units (ADUs) without losing their low-interest primary mortgages. These loans aim to make ADU construction more accessible as the state looks to expand housing options. ADUs typically cost $100K–$300K, and interest in second-position loans is growing as more towns and banks embrace them. – The Registry Review

Portsmouth project to add 240 workforce housing units

Service Credit Union plans to build a mixed-use development in Portsmouth with approximately 240 housing units, primarily offered at workforce rental rates. The project aims to expand affordable housing options for local employees and workers. – Portsmouth Herald

GRANITE GROWTH - Economy & Workforce

New Hampshire ranks #1 in public safety and economic opportunity

U.S. News & World Report has once again ranked New Hampshire among the best states to live, placing it first in both public safety and economic opportunity, and second overall. Gov. Kelly Ayotte credited the state’s success to law enforcement, business leaders, and New Hampshire’s independent spirit. The Granite State also received high marks for low pollution, internet access, and economic equality. – NH Journal

Manchester featured in 2025 best places to live ranking

Manchester, NH earned a spot on Livability.com’s 2025 Top 100 Best Places to Live list, recognized for its mix of affordability, amenities, and strong economic opportunity. The list highlights cities with populations between 75,000 and 500,000 and median home values under $500,000. Livability’s data-driven approach evaluates housing, healthcare, education, environment, and more. - Manchester Chamber of Commerce

Report reveals that NH higher education fuels $7.6B in statewide growth

New Hampshire’s public and private nonprofit colleges and universities contributed $7.6 billion to the state economy in 2023, supporting more than 50,000 jobs, according to a new report from the New Hampshire College & University Council. The report highlights higher ed’s role in workforce development, research, and community enrichment, reinforcing its value as a cornerstone of the Granite State’s long-term prosperity. – New Hampshire College & University Council

GRANITE GADGETS - Science & Innovation

Dartmouth and IISc launch global academic partnership

Dartmouth and the Indian Institute of Science have formalized a new partnership to foster international research and education, bringing together top faculty and students across disciplines from both institutions. Through Global Dartmouth, this collaboration aims to spark innovation in fields like energy, engineering, medicine, and more—while deepening academic exchange between the U.S. and India. – Dartmouth News

Dartmouth and UNH use AI to preserve endangered languages

Researchers at Dartmouth and UNH are using AI to help revitalize endangered languages. Dartmouth’s Rolando Coto Solano is building speech recognition tools for Indigenous languages like Bribri and Cook Islands Māori, enabling faster transcription and language learning. At UNH, grad student Ivory Yang developed NüshuRescue, an AI model that helps preserve Nüshu, a rare script once used by Chinese women. Both efforts highlight how New Hampshire institutions are combining tech and culture to protect global linguistic heritage. – Dartmouth News

Dartmouth PhD student explores safe urban sugaring through soil and sap research

Emily Sigman, a PhD student in Dartmouth’s Ecology, Evolution, Environment and Society (EEES) program, is leading a study on the safety of maple syrup produced in urban and contaminated environments. Her work examines whether sap collected from trees growing in contaminated soil—including sites near former factories, Superfund locations, and city parks—contains harmful substances like lead or PFAS. Her goal is to develop low-cost filtering and testing protocols for community-based sugaring efforts, particularly in lower-income areas. - Dartmouth News

GRANITE GRATITUDE - Nonprofits & Public Sector

UNH-grown trout helps feed thousands through Gather partnership

The University of New Hampshire has donated nearly 60 pounds of smoked steelhead trout to Gather, a Seacoast food pantry serving over 10,000 residents monthly. Raised in UNH’s AquaFort—a self-contained aquaculture system cultivating fish, mussels, and kelp—the locally grown trout is both high-quality and sustainable. Gather distributes the fish through its pantry and mobile markets and incorporates it into prepared meals, supporting unhoused individuals and seniors. “This partnership is truly helping us nourish our community,” said Gather’s culinary director. – UNH Today

Mr. Mac’s campaign supports veteran homelessness efforts

Manchester’s Mr. Mac’s Macaroni and Cheese launched its May “Mac Gives Back” campaign, pledging $1 from every Classic All-American Mac sold to Harbor Care, a nonprofit helping end veteran homelessness in New Hampshire. With around 150 homeless veterans statewide, the initiative highlights community-based solutions and growing momentum to connect more veterans with permanent housing. – Manchester Inklink

Manchester donates vehicle to expand addiction recovery outreach

The Manchester Fire Department has donated a retired SUV to HOPE for NH Recovery to help transport individuals seeking addiction treatment. Dubbed the “HOPE Car,” the vehicle will enhance outreach capacity as overdose rates in Manchester continue to decline. Mayor Jay Ruais and Fire Chief Ryan Cashin praised the city’s collaborative efforts with HOPE and other frontline organizations as key to saving lives and improving recovery outcomes. – Manchester Inklink

GRANITE GREATNESS: Human Interest & Our Favorite Stories

UNH students head abroad to advance global sustainability projects

Five UNH student teams are heading to Senegal, Kenya, Cambodia, and Uganda this summer through the International Changemaker Grant program. One team will partner with the Full Bucket Foundation to install solar panels and drip irrigation at a Senegalese boarding school, boosting energy access and food security. Other teams will support accessible education in Kenya, map deforestation in Cambodia, and develop recycled plastic products in Uganda—all in collaboration with local NGOs and social enterprises. – UNH Today

That’s it for this edition of the Good News in New Hampshire Newsletter. This newsletter is free and shareable to anyone anywhere. We also post on Instagram, Linkedin, and Facebook.

If you are hungry for other stories of progress, innovation, and good news beyond the borders of the Granite State, I encourage you to check out our friends at Fix the News or The Progress Network.

Thank you to:

Lindsey Williams, NH Sea Grant

Annie Cox, PREP Piscataqua Region Estuaries Partnership

Abigail Lyon, Piscataqua Region Estuaries Partnership

Lisa Wise, NH Sea Grant & UNH Extension

David Johnson, Southeast Land Trust of NH

Barbara Tetreault, Berlin Sun

Business NH Magazine

Portsmouth Herald

Trisha Nail, NH Business Review

Jay Fitzgerald, The Registry Review

Evan Lips, NH Journal

Lauren Getts, Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce

Mica Stark, NH College & University Council

Robbin Ray, UNH

Scott Ripley, UNH

Cate Homicki, Dartmouth College

Harini Barath, Dartmouth College

Nicola Smith, Dartmouth College

Andrew Sylvia, Manchester Inklink

For publishing great journalism or sharing information about your work.

Thank you for reading!

-Andy

My name is Andy DeMeo. I’ve lived in New Hampshire all my life.

At Granite Goodness we believe that being aware of progress and positivity leaves people more inspired to create their own. Optimism, kindness, and the will to solve complex problems are infectious qualities.

Also, being an optimist is just more fun.

As a general rule, this newsletter aims to include stories that fit the following criteria:

• The story is in or about New Hampshire

• The story is about something bigger than singular acts of kindness

• The story is about something good— people building, creating, or doing things that improve the world and reduce suffering

Just think- as long as it’s good and New Hampshire sized, it belongs here! If you have any story tips, let us know at hello@granitegoodness.com.

For more personal stories about progress and problem solving in New Hampshire, make sure to check our podcast, Granite Goodness, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube, and everywhere else.

Enjoy!

GRANITE GREENERY - Sustainability & Environment

New Group Solar Project to Expand Renewable Energy for NH Communities

A new 5-megawatt solar project in Warner, NH—developed by Encore Renewable Energy and supported by the Community Power Coalition of New Hampshire (CPCNH)—will provide clean, low-cost electricity to public entities through the state's group net metering program. Set to go live in mid-2026, the Poverty Plains Solar array will generate enough power for roughly 1,000 homes, offering municipalities, schools, and other public entities real savings and access to renewable energy with no upfront cost. - Community Power Coalition of New Hampshire

Portsmouth Moves to Protect Drinking Water with $1.47M Easement

Portsmouth will acquire a conservation easement on 44.6 acres near the Bellamy Reservoir, the city’s largest drinking water source, to prevent development and protect water quality from runoff contamination. Backed by state and federal grants totaling $1.48 million, the project could come at no cost to the city and has strong support from local leaders, clean water advocates, and the community. – Portsmouth Herald

New Hampshire Counties Among Cleanest in U.S. for Air Pollution

Hillsborough, Belknap, and Grafton counties ranked among the cleanest in the nation for air quality in the American Lung Association’s 2025 “State of the Air” report. With no high ozone days in Belknap and Grafton and consistently low pollution levels across the state, New Hampshire continues to be a leader in clean air.
– Patch News

GRANITE GRIT - Building & Infrastructure

Nashua Aims to Finalize New Land Use Code by End of 2025

Nashua is on track to adopt a new land use code by the end of 2025, aligning zoning regulations with the city’s Imagine Nashua Master Plan to support mixed-use, transit-accessible, and sustainable development. The update includes modernizing affordable housing ordinances, expanding developer incentives, and launching new initiatives like a landlord incentive program to build trust with voucher-holding tenants and increase access to stable housing. – Nashua Ink Link

Monadnock Transportation Group Expands Access and Safety Through Local Initiatives
The Monadnock Alliance for Sustainable Transportation (MAST) is working to improve access, equity, and safety in rural transportation across the region by promoting complete streets policies, offering grant funding, and organizing public engagement campaigns. Since 2017, MAST has funded 18 projects in 12 communities and is preparing a new round of Complete Streets grants for 2025, along with events like CommuteSmart NH’s Spring Challenge and National Bike Month to further support sustainable mobility. – Monadnock Ledger-Transcript

New Derry Facility Offers Shelter and Support for Families in Crisis
Family Promise has opened a 17,000-square-foot facility in Derry with space to house eight families and an on-site manager, providing not only shelter but access to case management and essential resources. Thanks in part to a $100,000 donation from M&T Bank, the new site helps families like the Koles, who faced hardship during the pandemic, find stability and a second chance. – WMUR

GRANITE GROWTH - Economy & Workforce

NH Small Business Development Center Celebrates 40 Years of Impact

In 2024, the NH Small Business Development Center (SBDC) marked its 40th anniversary with a banner year of success, supporting access to $15.8 million in new capital and sustaining 6,500 jobs. With a total economic impact of $254.6 million, SBDC continues to fuel New Hampshire’s small business growth through personalized guidance, statewide partnerships, and innovative programs. – NH SBDC

New Hampshire Maintains Low Unemployment Rate Amid National Trends

New Hampshire reported a 3.0% unemployment rate in February 2025—well below the national average of 4.1%—with about 754,500 residents employed across key sectors like tech, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing. Despite a slight uptick from previous months, the state’s strong job market and business-friendly policies continue to support economic stability. – Let’s Move to NH

State Opens Assistance Program for NH Child Care Workers
A new six-month pilot program in New Hampshire offers tuition assistance to child care workers who earn too much for existing subsidies but still struggle to afford care, capping costs at 7% of household income. The initiative could benefit up to 200 workers and aims to ease workforce shortages while helping more parents return to work. – NHPR

GRANITE GADGETS - Science & Innovation

Ten New Members Join NH Life Sciences, Boosting Innovation and Collaboration

NH Life Sciences (NHLS) announced the addition of ten new members, including Celdara Medical, Mascoma LLC, 3X Genetics, Upstart Sciences, and Sunrise Labs. Associate members joining the association include Park Street Strategies, Sullivan Construction, Safety Partners, Elliott Controls, and Plymouth State University. The expansion reflects NHLS’s growing role in making New Hampshire a national hub for medical innovation, workforce development, and patient-centered research. – NH Life Sciences

UNH Researchers Probe How Plastic-Eating Bacteria Impact Ocean Carbon Storage

UNH scientists are joining a $665,899 NSF-funded project to study how bacteria feeding on carbon from ocean plastics may disrupt nutrient cycles and weaken the ocean’s ability to store carbon. The team will conduct fieldwork in nutrient-poor gyres and model impacts on the marine food web. – UNH

Dartmouth Researchers Tie Corporate Emissions to Real-World Climate Costs

A new Nature study led by Dartmouth’s Justin Mankin presents the first framework to link specific climate damages—like heat-related economic losses—to emissions from individual fossil fuel companies. The method, based on climate attribution science, helps courts assess liability by comparing today’s climate to a world without those emissions. – Dartmouth News

GRANITE GRATITUDE - Nonprofits & Public Sector

Manchester Sees Sharp Drop in Overdose Rates, Projecting Lowest in a Decade
Mayor Jay Ruais announced that Manchester is on track for a 49% drop in suspected overdoses and a 51% decline in suspected overdose deaths this year—potentially the lowest levels since the start of the opioid epidemic. Officials credit coordinated efforts among public health teams, first responders, and community partners. – City of Manchester

Adult Day Center Gets $20K for Dementia Care Program

The Mt. Washington Valley Adult Day Center in Conway has received a $20,000 grant from the Endowment for Health to support its participation in the federal GUIDE program, an eight-year trial aimed at improving dementia care. One of just three New Hampshire organizations chosen, the center will expand its services from 35 to 62 communities, offering care coordination, caregiver support, and education across a larger rural population. – Conway Daily Sun

Housing Support Expands for Monadnock Families

Keene Housing’s Homes for School program, which helps families with young children secure affordable housing, has expanded to Mount Caesar Elementary. The initiative has already housed 17 families in Keene and now supports several in the Monadnock Region, offering rent assistance, stability, and guidance toward long-term goals. – The Keene Sentinel

GRANITE GREATNESS: Human Interest & Our Favorite Stories

Keene State Architecture Students Help Envision Peterborough’s Future

As part of the Envision Town Challenge, Keene State architecture students are designing potential affordable and mixed-use housing projects on key Peterborough sites, including Monadnock Plaza and the former IDG building. Their concepts—developed in partnership with local committees and property owners—will be showcased this spring, offering ideas that could inspire real development and help meet the town’s growing housing needs. – Monadnock Ledger-Transcript

That’s it for this edition of the Good News in New Hampshire Newsletter. This newsletter is free and shareable to anyone anywhere. We also post on Instagram, Linkedin, and Facebook.

If you are hungry for other stories of progress, innovation, and good news beyond the borders of the Granite State, I encourage you to check out our friends at Fix the News or The Progress Network.

Thank you to:

Jeff McMenemy, The Portsmouth Herald

Tony Schinella, Patch News

Community Power Coalition of New Hampshire

Mya Blanchard, Nashua Iink Link

Isabel Litterst, WMUR

Lisa Carter, Let’s Move to NH

Annmarie Timmins, NHPR

Liz Gray, NH Small Business Development Center

Conway Daily Sun

NH Life Sciences

Rebecca Irelan, EOS, UNH

Morgan Kelly, Dartmouth College

Office of Mayor Jay Ruais, City of Manchester

Sophia Keshmiri, The Keene Sentinel

Keene Housing

Jesseca Timmons, Monadnock Ledger Transcript

For publishing great journalism or information about your work.

Thanks for reading!

-Andy

My name is Andy DeMeo. I’ve lived in New Hampshire all my life.

At Granite Goodness we believe that being aware of progress and positivity leaves people more inspired to create their own. Optimism, kindness, and the will to solve complex problems are infectious qualities.

Also, being an optimist is just more fun.

As a general rule, this newsletter aims to include stories that fit the following criteria:

• The story is in or about New Hampshire

• The story is about something bigger than singular acts of kindness

• The story is about something good— people building, creating, or doing things that improve the world and reduce suffering

Just think- as long as it’s good and New Hampshire sized, it belongs here! If you have any story tips, let us know at hello@granitegoodness.com.

For more personal stories about progress and problem solving in New Hampshire, make sure to check our podcast, Granite Goodness, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube, and everywhere else.

Enjoy!

GRANITE GREENERY - Sustainability & Environment

Community Power now reaches nearly half of New Hampshire residents

As of 2025, nearly half of New Hampshire’s population has access to Community Power programs, giving towns and cities more control over their electricity sources and pricing. Since the 2019 law enabled local energy aggregation, 46 communities—including Concord—have joined the initiative, helping residents access affordable and renewable energy options while shaping the future of the state's energy landscape. – Concord Monitor

Seacoast towns team up for clean energy in regional challenge

Dover, Durham, Exeter, Newmarket, and Portsmouth joined forces for the Seacoast Energy Challenge, a six-month initiative to boost participation in renewable energy through local Community Power programs. The effort led to over 100 new opt-ups to cleaner electricity, saving an estimated 80 tons of CO₂ and showing the power of community-driven climate action. – Community Power Coalition of New Hampshire

NH awards $3.3M in LCHIP grants to protect land, water, and historic sites

The Land and Community Heritage Investment Program (LCHIP) has awarded $3.3 million in matching grants to 26 projects across New Hampshire, supporting the conservation of over 3,300 acres and the rehabilitation of 14 historic buildings. Notable awards include expansions to the Morse Preserve in Alton and the protection of Campton Bog—critical steps for preserving wildlife habitat, water resources, and climate resilience. – Society for the Protection of NH Forests

GRANITE GRIT - Building & Infrastructure

Poll shows overwhelming support for pro-housing reforms in NH

A new statewide poll finds that large majorities of Granite Staters support key zoning reforms to address New Hampshire’s housing crisis, including legalizing detached ADUs, smaller lot sizes, and residential development in commercial zones. With over half of respondents naming housing as the state’s top issue, the results come as the Legislature considers a suite of bipartisan housing bills—and as debate grows over how far the state should go in shaping local land use policy. — New Hampshire Bulletin

Dismas Home expands to Rochester with new recovery center

Dismas Home of New Hampshire is opening a 13-bed transitional recovery home for women in Rochester, following opposition to a similar project in Manchester. The facility will provide extended care for women completing addiction recovery and reentry programs. Located in a former pediatric clinic, the center aligns with Rochester’s development goals and marks a hopeful step in expanding support for justice-involved women. – Manchester Ink Link

Portsmouth has 1,000+ housing units “in the pipeline”
Portsmouth city planner Peter Britz says 1,000 to 1,500 new housing units are in development, potentially pushing the city’s population toward 25,000 for the first time since the early 1990s. - Portsmouth Herald

GRANITE GROWTH - Economy & Workforce

New Hampshire Economy Outpaces Neighbors, Housing Remains Hot

New Hampshire is projected to grow faster than Maine and Vermont in 2025, with job gains concentrated in healthcare, business services, and tourism. The state’s unemployment rate—already among the lowest in the region—is expected to stay strong at 3.0%. Housing remains a bright spot, with home prices forecast to rise 5.7%, well above the national average, thanks to tight supply and steady demand. – TD Economics Forecast

NH consumer spending grew 8.9% in 2023, outpacing national average

New Hampshire saw an 8.9% increase in consumer spending in 2023—higher than the national rate of 7.5%. While health care is the top expense nationally, housing led in New Hampshire, making up 18% of all consumer spending. — NH Economic and Labor Market Information Bureau

Claremont hospital launches NH’s first LNA apprenticeship for high school students

Valley Regional Hospital in Claremont, in partnership with River Valley Community College and ApprenticeshipNH, launched New Hampshire’s first Licensed Nursing Assistant (LNA) registered apprenticeship for high school students. The 8-week program combined classroom, lab, and clinical experience—leading to a 100% licensing exam pass rate and opening new healthcare career pathways for local youth. — Business NH Magazine

GRANITE GADGETS - Science & Innovation

UNH’s CoCo Lab Turns Pandemic Tools into Scientific Powerhouse

Born from UNH’s COVID-19 testing infrastructure, the Collaborative Core Wet Lab (CoCo Lab) is now powering breakthroughs in wildlife health, water quality, invasive species detection, and pandemic preparedness. By applying high-throughput DNA analysis to everything from moose scat to estuary water samples, researchers are tracking disease, protecting ecosystems, and strengthening New Hampshire’s ability to respond to future public health threats. — University of New Hampshire

UNH scientists pioneer ocean mapping technology and application

UNH researchers helped the U.S. claim 1 million square kilometers of new seabed territory in 2023, a major step toward unlocking the ocean’s vast potential for science, safety, and sustainability. With most of the seafloor still unmapped, their work is driving progress on global efforts to chart the ocean, inform climate models, guide infrastructure planning, and protect fragile ecosystems. — University of New Hampshire

Dartmouth trial finds AI therapy chatbot significantly improves mental health symptoms

In a first-of-its-kind clinical trial, Dartmouth researchers found that an AI-powered therapy chatbot called Therabot led to significant reductions in symptoms of depression (51%), anxiety (31%), and body image concerns (19%) in participants diagnosed with mental health disorders. Users reported trust and engagement levels comparable to in-person care, suggesting generative AI could offer meaningful support for those lacking access to traditional therapy. — Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine

GRANITE GRATITUDE - Nonprofits & Public Sector

NH ranks 10th in nation for adult mental health outcomes

New Hampshire ranks 10th in Mental Health America’s 2024 national report, indicating a relatively low prevalence of adult mental illness and strong access to care. The ranking reflects positive outcomes across measures like insurance coverage, treatment access, and lower rates of serious psychological distress compared to most states. — Mental Health America

$72M in medical debt to be wiped out for NH residents

Thousands of Granite Staters are getting a fresh start as $72 million in medical debt is set to be erased, thanks to a major debt relief initiative by the nonprofit Undue Medical Debt. The organization recently purchased and retired over $30 billion in medical debt nationwide, and New Hampshire residents are among the beneficiaries. The relief will focus on individuals earning under 400% of the federal poverty level, lifting a major financial burden for many. - NHPR

NH improving mental health wait times

A federal judge says New Hampshire is making strong progress in ending ER boarding for psychiatric patients. Thanks to new beds and community investments through its “Mission Zero” initiative, the state has significantly reduced waitlists—often down to single digits. While some timelines may need adjusting, the judge called the state’s efforts “very, very pleasing,” signaling real momentum toward faster, more humane mental health care. – NHPR

GRANITE GREATNESS: Human Interest & Our Favorite Stories

Fritz Wetherbee to retire after nearly 25 years on "NH Chronicle"

Fritz Wetherbee, 88, is retiring from New Hampshire Chronicle after telling Granite State stories for nearly a quarter-century. Known for his unique voice and unmatched tie collection, Fritz has shared more than 5,000 stories since 2001, opening nearly every one with his iconic line “I’ll tell you the story.” The Emmy winner and proud New Hampshire native says he’s looking forward to writing his memoir and enjoying life with his wife, Laura. “In some way, this is the best time of my life,” he said. – WMUR

That’s it for this edition of the Good News in New Hampshire Newsletter. This newsletter is free and shareable to anyone anywhere. We also post on Instagram, Linkedin, and Facebook.

If you are hungry for other stories of progress, innovation, and good news beyond the borders of the Granite State, I encourage you to check out our friends at Fix the News or The Progress Network.

Thank you to:

Community Power Coalition of NH

David Brooks at The Concord Monitor

Society for the Protection of NH Forests

Scott Merrill at Business NH Magazine

NH Economic and Labor Market Information Bureau

Mental Health America

Beth Potier at The University of New Hampshire

Ethan Dewitt at The New Hampshire Bulletin

Morgan Kelly at Darmouth College

Jeff McMenemy at The Portsmouth Herald

Maureen Milliken at Manchester InkLink

Olivia Richardson at NH Public Radio

TD Bank

Sean McDonald at WMUR

For publishing great journalism or information about your work.

Thanks for reading!

-Andy

My name is Andy DeMeo. I’ve lived in New Hampshire all my life.

At Granite Goodness we believe that being aware of progress and positivity leaves people more inspired to create their own. Optimism, kindness, and the will to solve complex problems are infectious qualities.

Also, being an optimist is just more fun.

As a general rule, this newsletter aims to include stories that fit the following criteria:

• The story is in or about New Hampshire

• The story is about something bigger than singular acts of kindness

• The story is about something good— people building, creating, or doing things that improve the world and reduce suffering

Just think- as long as it’s good and New Hampshire sized, it belongs here! If you have any story tips, let us know at hello@granitegoodness.com.

For more personal stories about progress and problem solving in New Hampshire, make sure to check our podcast, Granite Goodness, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube, and everywhere else.

Enjoy!

GRANITE GREENERY - Sustainability & Environment

NH Food Alliance launches strategic food system plan

New Hampshire’s new Food and Agriculture Strategic Plan offers a clear, actionable roadmap to grow the state’s farms, fisheries, and food businesses. With over 140 recommendations from 30+ organizations, it aims to boost viability, attract investment, and promote equity—empowering stakeholders to drive lasting, system-wide change. - NH Food Alliance

New Hampshire launches registry of carbon credit properties

New Hampshire has unveiled a new registry highlighting over 182,000 acres of forest enrolled in carbon credit programs, showcasing the state’s growing role in climate solutions by preserving trees to absorb carbon. Supporters see it as a forward-thinking step that balances environmental stewardship with transparency, while lawmakers explore ways to ensure local economies also benefit. - NH Bulletin

Successful cap & trade program eyes expansion

The Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI)— of which New Hampshire is a member— is entering a new chapter of opportunity, as East Coast states explore ways to expand and strengthen this successful cap-and-invest program. With billions already reinvested in clean energy and emissions cut in half, RGGI stands as a proven model for state-led climate leadership. - NH Bulletin

GRANITE GRIT - Building & Infrastructure

New Hampshire Housing Supply Coalition launches

A new statewide coalition— spearheaded by the NH Business and Industry Association— is uniting business leaders, realtors, and advocates to push for bold housing solutions in New Hampshire, focusing on land use reform, streamlined permitting, and funding support. With housing shortages threatening the state’s economy and workforce, the effort signals growing momentum to make New Hampshire more affordable, vibrant, and competitive. - WMUR

Merrimack County proposes major assisted living expansion

Merrimack County is advancing a $50 million plan to transform unused space in the McLeod Building into a modern assisted living and memory care facility, adding 80 much-needed beds to support the region’s aging population. By investing in compassionate care, local jobs, and long-term infrastructure, the county is setting a bold example of how to meet the growing needs of seniors with dignity and foresight. – Concord Monitor

Dover to welcome 88 new affordable apartments near train station

An 88-unit apartment complex called The Railroad Apartments is set to open this fall in downtown Dover, offering below-market rents and convenient access to public transit. Designed with commuters in mind, the development will provide modern, affordable housing just steps from the train station—opening doors to Boston and beyond at a fraction of city prices. – Foster’s Daily Democrat

GRANITE GROWTH - Economy & Workforce

Granite State delivers nation’s best taxpayer ROI

According to WalletHub’s latest analysis, New Hampshire offers the highest return on taxpayer investment in the country—thanks to strong outcomes in safety, education, and environmental quality, all without a state income tax. With low unemployment, low poverty, and efficient government services, Granite Staters are getting exceptional value for every tax dollar. – WalletHub

JetBlue adds direct Manchester–NYC flights for summer travel

JetBlue will launch nonstop summer service between Manchester and New York City’s JFK Airport starting June 12, providing quick, one-hour connections through Oct. 25. The new route is expected to boost international travel options for Granite Staters, offering easier access to global destinations via JFK. – WMUR

New Hampshire emerges as a rising hub for life sciences and biofabrication

New Hampshire is rapidly becoming a leader in life sciences innovation, with more than 1,000 bioscience companies statewide, cutting-edge research institutions, and major investments in advanced medical manufacturing. Anchored by the work of Dean Kamen’s ARMI and the ReGen Valley Tech Hub, this growing ecosystem is creating new therapies, jobs, and educational pathways—while staying rooted in community values and collaboration. – Business New Hampshire Magazine

GRANITE GADGETS - Science & Innovation

UNH scientists pioneer manure-powered greenhouse heating to boost winter farming

Researchers at the University of New Hampshire are developing innovative, manure-based heating systems to help small and mid-sized farms extend their growing seasons and reduce fossil fuel use. By turning agricultural waste into renewable energy, the project offers a cost-effective, scalable solution to support year-round food production, cut emissions, and strengthen New England’s local food systems. – UNH Agricultural Experiment Station

UNH and UNE patent real-time molecular sensor for medicine and manufacturing

Scientists at UNH and the University of New England have patented a new sensor that detects molecular changes in real time, with promising uses in medicine, biomanufacturing, and environmental monitoring. The technology uses special polymers that react to changes like temperature or pH, allowing faster, cheaper, and more precise testing than traditional methods. – University of New Hampshire

Dartmouth study reveals how songbirds adapt to changing populations

Using 50 years of hand-drawn maps from New Hampshire’s Hubbard Brook Forest, Dartmouth PhD student Miranda Zammarelli and professor Richard Holmes found that songbirds adjust their territory sizes based on population density. The study supports a key ecological theory and shows how flexible, self-organizing behavior helps birds thrive in changing environments—a finding with major implications for conservation. – Dartmouth News

GRANITE GRATITUDE - Public Sector & Nonprofits

NH sees 35% drop in opioid deaths, outpacing national decline

New Hampshire saw a 35% decline in fatal opioid overdoses from 2023 to 2024—outpacing national trends—thanks to coordinated efforts across law enforcement, public health, and treatment networks. Governor Kelly Ayotte and state officials praised programs like Operation Granite Shield and the Doorways initiative, highlighting New Hampshire’s success in expanding access to care, reducing stigma, and keeping communities safer. – Office of the Governor Kelly Ayotte

New study names New Hampshire the safest state in America

According to a new analysis by High Rise Financial using FBI crime data, New Hampshire ranks as the safest state in the U.S., with the lowest overall violent crime index score of 13.67 out of 100. With remarkably low rates of murder, assault, robbery, and arson, the Granite State continues to lead the nation in public safety. – USA Today Network New England

Manchester Police report shows crime down, community trust up in 2024

In its 2024 annual report, the Manchester Police Department highlights major progress, including a 15% drop in total crime and an 18% decline in calls for service compared to the 10-year average. – Manchester InkLink

GRANITE GREATNESS: Human Interest & Our Favorite Stories

New Hampshire ranks #1 in country for lasting love

According to an analysis of US Census data from StorageCafe, New Hampshire tops the list of states where marriages go the distance, with couples averaging 22.6 years together and more than half the population married. With its scenic charm, strong communities, and beautiful outdoors, the Granite State offers the perfect setting for romance that stands the test of time. – StorageCafe

That’s it for this edition of the Good News in New Hampshire Newsletter. This newsletter is free and shareable to anyone anywhere. We also post on Instagram, Linkedin, and Facebook.

If you are hungry for other stories of progress, innovation, and good news beyond the borders of the Granite State, I encourage you to check out our friends at Fix the News or The Progress Network.

Thank you to:

Claire Sullivan at The New Hampshire Bulletin

Rachel Wachman at The Concord Monitor

Adam Sexton at WMUR

Imani Fleming at WMUR

Sarah Donovan at Foster’s Daily Democrat

Melina Khan at USA Today - New England

Scott Merrill at Business New Hampshire Magazine

Nicholas Gosling at the Community Power Coalition of NH (formerly at UNH)

Morgan Kelly at Dartmouth College

Maria Gatea at storagecafe.com

For publishing great journalism or information about your work.

Thanks for reading!

-Andy

Hello! Welcome to the Good News in New Hampshire Newsletter, part of Granite Goodness. We share stories of progress, solutions and positivity in and around New Hampshire.

My name is Andy DeMeo. I’ve lived in New Hampshire all my life.

At Granite Goodness we believe that being aware of progress and positivity leaves people more inspired to create their own. Optimism, kindness, and the will to solve complex problems are infectious qualities.

Also, being an optimist is just more fun.

As a general rule, this newsletter aims to include stories that fit the following criteria:

• The story is in or about New Hampshire

• The story is about something bigger than singular acts of kindness

• The story is about something good— people building, creating, or doing things that improve the world and reduce suffering

Just think- as long as it’s good and New Hampshire sized, it belongs here! If you have any story tips, let us know at hello@granitegoodness.com.

For more personal stories about progress and problem solving in New Hampshire, make sure to check our podcast, Granite Goodness, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube, and everywhere else.

Enjoy!

GRANITE GREENERY - Sustainability & Environment

• New Hampshire set to launch loan program for energy-efficient housing development

  • A recently signed bipartisan bill will establish a long-awaited financing program to support energy-efficient housing development in New Hampshire. The legislation revives the Commercial Property-Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) loan program, enabling developers to fund clean energy upgrades—like heat pumps and solar panels—through private loans repaid via property tax bills. - Canary Media

• Funding opens up for NH farmers to protect bobolink habitats

  • New Hampshire farmers can now receive funding through the Bobolink Project in exchange for delaying hay cutting, helping to protect critical breeding habitats for grassland birds. By agreeing to specific haying schedules, farmers create safe nesting grounds for bobolinks, whose populations have declined by over 60% in the past 50 years. The program not only supports bird conservation but also provides farmers with a stable, diversified source of income while maintaining ecologically valuable landscapes. - NHPR

• Peterborough and Harrisville launch rebate program for home energy upgrades

  • Peterborough and Harrisville have launched a campaign to enroll residents in HeatSmart+, a rebate program offering $3,300 for energy efficiency upgrades like weatherization, electric heat pumps, and panel upgrades. With around 20 households already approved, the program aims to help 80 homes transition to cleaner, more efficient energy solutions. - NHPR

GRANITE GRIT - Building & Infrastructure

• Construction begins on Village on Technology Hill in Londonderry

  • North Branch Construction has broken ground on The Village on Technology Hill, a mixed-use development in Londonderry that will combine industrial, residential, and retail spaces to support economic growth and community living. With 440 new apartments, a childcare center, and major business hubs, the project will create jobs, attract businesses, and provide much-needed housing in Southern New Hampshire. Designed with sustainability in mind, it will strengthen the local economy and offer a vibrant, connected lifestyle for residents and employees alike. - Manchester Ink Link

• NH communities lead the way in housing solutions

  • New Hampshire Housing’s new report highlights how eleven communities are tackling housing challenges through zoning reforms, community-driven planning, and innovative solutions. With support from the InvestNH initiative, towns like Keene, Bethlehem, and Canterbury have implemented creative strategies such as cottage court districts, cluster developments, and density-friendly zoning changes. - NH PBS

• Keene unanimously adopts pro-housing zoning reform

  • Keene City Council’s unanimous vote to adopt two new ordinances is a major step toward easing the housing crunch, making it easier for residents and developers to add much-needed homes. By reducing parking requirements and eliminating extra land requirements for additional units in key districts, the city is removing barriers to development and encouraging more efficient land use. These changes position Keene as a proactive community working to create a more accessible and affordable housing market for the future. - NH Business Review

GRANITE GROWTH - Economy & Workforce

• NH Small Business Development Center launches 2025 Global Growth program to support businesses

  • The NH Export Accelerator is now accepting participants for its 2025 Global Growth Series, a program designed to help New Hampshire businesses develop and refine their exporting strategies. Open to all NH companies looking to export U.S.-made goods or services, the program offers tailored support to navigate international markets and optimize export success. - NH Small Business Development Center

• NH ranked as one of healthiest states for women and children in new report

  • The United Health Foundation has released the America's Health Rankings® 2024 Health of Women and Children Report, offering a comprehensive analysis of 123 health measures from 33 data sources to assess the well-being of women and children across the United States. Notably, New Hampshire ranks as one of the healthiest states for women (#6) and children (#1), followed by Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, and Vermont. - Business NH Magazine

• 2nd mental health center in NH achieves competitive certification

  • The Mental Health Center of Greater Manchester (MHCGM) is leading New Hampshire’s transition to the Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) model, integrating mental health, physical health, and substance misuse services to improve access and outcomes. This new approach not only enhances patient care but also benefits New Hampshire’s economy by reducing emergency healthcare costs, increasing workforce productivity, and expanding job opportunities in the behavioral health sector. - Manchester Ink Link

GRANITE GADGETS - Science & Innovation

• Dartmouth study highlights need for indigenous data governance in environmental research

  • A new Dartmouth College study examines how environmental research can better integrate Indigenous data governance, ensuring that Indigenous knowledge, ecosystems, and cultural practices are properly recognized and protected. Lead author Lydia Jennings, a citizen of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe, emphasizes the importance of ethical data stewardship, collaboration with Indigenous communities, and proper attribution in scientific research. By incorporating Indigenous expertise, the study argues, environmental science can become more accurate, inclusive, and responsive to ongoing ecological challenges. - NHPR

• Study by Dartmouth researchers shows emotional support makes childbirth less stressful

  • A Dartmouth study confirms that having loved ones present during childbirth helps reduce stress and leads to better outcomes for parents and babies. Researchers found that those missing a support person felt significantly more stressed, similar to those undergoing a C-section. The study highlights the importance of ensuring emotional support during labor for a safer, more positive birth experience. - Dartmouth College

• UNH researchers explore antifreeze proteins for breakthroughs in medicine and biotechnology

  • A team of researchers at the University of New Hampshire (UNH) is studying how antifreeze proteins (AFPs), found in organisms that survive extreme cold, could revolutionize cryopreservation in medicine and biotechnology. Led by Associate Professor Krisztina Varga, the team is exploring AFPs as a safer alternative to traditional freezing agents, with potential applications in organ preservation, stem cell storage, and food technology. - UNH Today

GRANITE GRATITUDE - Nonprofits & Public Sector

• NHHRC launches second overdose prevention van to expand life-saving efforts

  • The New Hampshire Harm Reduction Coalition (NHHRC) has launched its second Overdose Prevention Van, expanding its reach to high-need areas and strengthening the state’s response to opioid overdoses. With essential supplies like Naloxone and drug-checking strips, the van will provide life-saving resources at no cost, complementing NHHRC’s harm reduction programs that have already reported 964 overdose reversals in 2024. - Manchester Ink Link

• Liberty House receives $20,000 grant to support veterans’ independence

  • Liberty House has been awarded a $20,000 grant from the Service Credit Union Impact Foundation and the Robert Irvine Foundation to further its mission of helping New Hampshire veterans rebuild their lives. The funding will support Liberty House’s transitional housing program, which provides veterans facing homelessness, PTSD, and other challenges with recovery resources, employment connections, and pathways to independent living. With a 13% increase in veterans served last year, this grant will help expand essential services and continue offering hope and stability to those who have served. - Manchester Ink Link

• Food access and education program expands after support from NH Charitable Foundation

  • At the Cornucopia Project Educational Garden, young farmers like 12-year-old Gabby Sanders are discovering the joy of growing and eating fresh, organic food—sometimes even surprising themselves with new favorites, like homemade salsa. Through hands-on farming, cooking, and community engagement, students learn about plant biology, sustainable agriculture, and the importance of local food systems while supplying produce to schools, food pantries, and restaurants. With programs in 32 schools and growing (thanks to the NH Charitable Foundation), the Cornucopia Project continues to foster deep connections between children, their food, and their communities, creating a new generation of engaged and knowledgeable food stewards. - NH Charitable Foundation

GRANITE GREATNESS: Human Interest & Our Favorite Stories

• NH schoolyard tree planting program expands after successful first year

  • Following the successful planting of 43 trees at 18 schools last year, the Schoolyard Canopy Enhancement Program is gearing up for another round of tree plantings in 2024. Funded by the U.S. Forest Service and run in partnership with UNH Cooperative Extension, the program continues to provide schools with free trees while inspiring students to connect with nature. With applications open until March 7, more schools will have the opportunity to enhance their landscapes, engage in hands-on learning, and create lasting green spaces for future generations. - NH Bulletin

That’s it for this edition of the Good News in New Hampshire Newsletter. This newsletter is free and shareable to anyone anywhere. We also post on Instagram, Linkedin, and Facebook.

If you are hungry for other stories of progress, innovation, and good news beyond the borders of the Granite State, I encourage you to check out our friends at Fix the News or The Progress Network.

Thank you to:

Sophia Keshmiri at The Keene Sentinel

Amanda Andrews at NH Business Review

NH PBS

Manchester Ink Link

Julia Furukawa at NH Public Radio

Mara Hoplamazian at NH Public Radio

Matt Mowry at Business NH Magazine

Claire Sullivan at NH Bulletin

Sarah Shemkus at

Jim Graham at the NH Charitable Foundation

Amy Olson at Dartmouth College

Nicholas Gosling at the Community Power Coalition of NH (formerly at UNH)

For publishing great journalism or information about your work.

Thanks for reading!

-Andy

Hello! Welcome to the Good News in New Hampshire Newsletter, part of Granite Goodness. We share stories of progress, solutions and positivity in and around New Hampshire.

My name is Andy DeMeo. I’ve lived in New Hampshire all my life.

At Granite Goodness we believe that being aware of progress and positivity leaves people more inspired to create their own. Optimism, kindness, and the will to solve complex problems are infectious qualities.

Also, being an optimist is just more fun.

As a general rule, this newsletter aims to include stories that fit the following criteria:

• The story is in or about New Hampshire

• The story is about something bigger than singular acts of kindness

• The story is about something good— people building, creating, or doing things that improve the world and reduce suffering

Just think- as long as it’s good and New Hampshire sized, it belongs here! If you have any story tips, let us know at hello@granitegoodness.com.

For more personal stories about progress and problem solving in New Hampshire, make sure to check our podcast, Granite Goodness, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube, and everywhere else.

Enjoy!

GRANITE GREENERY - Sustainability & Environment

• $3M awarded to UNH to develop international sustainable seafood program

  • UNH is launching an international seafood production program with a $3 million gift to help students develop aquaculture approaches tailored to their communities. Part of UNH’s Center for Sustainable Seafood Systems, the program aims to address food sustainability amid climate change, particularly as the rapidly warming Gulf of Maine threatens local fisheries. - NH Bulletin

• Community power expands to 20 new communities, saving them ~$1.4 million

  • In their most recent quarterly update, the Community Power Coalition of NH has announced that Community Power service now covers 75 communities across the state, representing ~170,000 customers. The 20 new communities are projected to save customers ~$1.4 million in their first four months of service. - Community Power Coalition of NH

• ~$1M awarded to NH for Merrimack River watershed protection

  • Nearly $1 million in federal funding is coming to New Hampshire for conservation work in the Merrimack River watershed as part of a $139 million coastal resilience grant program. The funds will support stream-crossing projects to restore habitats for native species like brook trout and American eel while mitigating flood risks. - NH Business Review

• SELT conserves 28-acre Brentwood property for wildlife and farming

  • SELT has completed the conservation of the 28-acre Fuller property in Brentwood, ensuring its protection for wildlife connectivity and future farming. Funded by the Town of Brentwood, SELT donors, and grants, the easement includes an option to purchase at agricultural value to keep the land actively farmed. - SELT

• UNH research highlights understudied small mammals in conservation science

  • A UNH study analyzing over 70,000 scientific publications found that larger, more charismatic mammals receive disproportionate research attention. Researchers emphasize the need for more balanced wildlife research, leveraging modern tools such as camera traps and environmental DNA to fill knowledge gaps and improve conservation efforts. - UNH Today

GRANITE GRIT - Building & Infrastructure

• Keene Receives $1.8M Grant for Solar-Powered Pavilion

  • Keene has been awarded nearly $1.8 million through the Timber for Transit grant to help fund a $2 million solar-powered pavilion on Gilbo Avenue as part of a larger downtown infrastructure project beginning in 2026. The 230-by-30-foot pavilion will feature 120 solar panels to power downtown lighting and events, while also serving as a flexible space for parking and community gatherings like food truck festivals. - NH Business Review

• Portsmouth plans 127-unit workforce housing project at former school site

  • Portsmouth is proceeding with a 127-unit workforce housing project on the former Sherburne School site, led by the Portsmouth Housing Authority (PHA). The redevelopment will include eight one-bedroom apartments inside the historic school and 119 additional units in two new buildings, aiming to provide more affordable housing for residents being priced out of the city. - NH Business Review

• Affordable housing project in Brookline moving forward

  • The project will include 58 senior housing units, 30 workforce housing units, and 10 market-rate units, alongside preserved open space and commercial development, marking a significant step toward addressing housing affordability in high-opportunity communities. - Union Leader

• 123 affordable apartment units in Concord near completion

  • The Pembroke Road Apartments Phase 2 in Concord is nearing completion, adding 84 new units to the 123-unit development by Tamposi Brothers Holdings LLC. Supported by a $3 million InvestNH grant and Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, the project aims to alleviate New Hampshire’s housing crisis, with many units designated for income-restricted tenants. - Concord Monitor

GRANITE GROWTH - Economy & Workforce

• Innovative metallurgy firm to open facility in Exeter

  • Massachusetts-based Phoenix Tailings plans to open a first-of-its-kind metal production facility in Exeter, NH, aiming for waste-free processing of critical minerals used in electric vehicles and defense technology. The company intends to produce 200 tons of metals annually, hire around 30 employees initially, and move critical metals manufacturing to the U.S. - NHPR

• Report finds that immigrants make up 7% of NH workforce, provide key economic strengths

  • Foreign-born workers make up nearly 7% of New Hampshire’s workforce, including 61% who are naturalized citizens, and they participate in the labor force at a higher rate than U.S.-born residents. A state report highlights that between 2013 and 2023, immigration brought 62,600 residents to New Hampshire, helping to offset an aging workforce. - NH Business Review

• $8.7 million awarded to towns across NH for economic development

  • Thirteen projects across New Hampshire will receive $8.7 million in grants from the Northern Border Regional Commission’s Catalyst program to support rural economic development. Major recipients include $1 million each for a new residential substance use treatment facility in Lebanon, a childcare center in Gorham, and accessible trails in Conway. - NH Department of Business & Economic Affairs

GRANITE GADGETS - Science & Innovation

• New Hampshire removes PFAS from firefighting foam in pioneering cleanup effort

  • New Hampshire collected and sent 11,017 gallons of PFAS-contaminated firefighting foam to Ohio, where Revive Environmental used its "PFAS Annihilator" process to eliminate harmful chemicals through supercritical water oxidation. The treated water is now undergoing testing at Battelle’s Massachusetts lab, with results expected soon, as the state evaluates the effectiveness of this first-of-its-kind PFAS removal effort. - NH Business Review

• UNH interstellar probe to be launched in 2025 mission

  • UNH’s IMAP-Lo instrument has been installed on NASA’s Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe (IMAP) spacecraft, launching in 2025. It will help scientists study how the sun interacts with space by measuring particles from the galaxy and mapping the heliosphere, the protective bubble around our solar system. - UNH Today

• UNH researchers use AI to analyze 700 million aurora images

  • UNH scientists have developed AI tools to categorize 700 million aurora borealis images from NASA’s THEMIS data set, improving our ability to study and predict geomagnetic storms. This massive database, collected over 18 years, will help researchers better understand how solar wind interacts with Earth's magnetosphere, protecting critical communications and infrastructure. - UNH Today

• Prestigious R1 research classification retained by UNH

  • The University of New Hampshire has maintained its R1 classification for the highest research activity, reaffirming its position among the nation’s top research universities. With $252 million in external funding, over 1,000 active research projects, and 79 doctoral degrees awarded in 2024, UNH continues to drive innovation and economic impact in New Hampshire and beyond. - UNH Today

GRANITE GRADUATES - Education

• NH-LIFT launches seed grant programs to boost research collaboration

  • The NH-LIFT project, a four-year initiative funded by the National Science Foundation's EPSCoR program, aims to strengthen New Hampshire’s research ecosystem and economy through collaboration and innovation. As part of this effort, NH-LIFT is offering Collaboration Seed Grants to foster partnerships among faculty and industry and Catalyst Seed Grants to support graduate students in conducting early-stage research for multi-institutional projects. - EPSCoR New Hampshire

• NH online education programs receive national recognition

  • UNH’s online programs were nationally ranked in the 2025 U.S. News Best Online Programs, with the College of Professional Studies earning the top-ranked online bachelor’s program in NH for the 13th year and ranking No. 51 nationally. The Paul College online MBA program was ranked No. 1 in NH, top five in New England, and No. 55 nationally, with both programs also receiving recognition for their support of veterans. - UNH Today

• UNH and Lonza launch new program to support life sciences careers

  • The University of New Hampshire and Lonza Biologics, Inc. have established the Lonza Scholars Program, providing annual scholarships to four outstanding first-year students majoring in biology, biochemistry, or bioengineering, with up to 16 scholars supported by 2028. Scholars will gain mentorship, site visits, and career opportunities, strengthening workforce development in New Hampshire’s life sciences industry. - UNH Today

GRANITE GREATNESS: Human Interest & Our Favorite Stories

• NH Department of Transportation announces winners of “Name A Plow” contest

  • The NHDOT received over 3,000 votes in its annual "Name A Plow Contest," selecting seven winning names for 2025. Among the favorites were “Ctrl-Salt-Delete”, “Live Free and Plow”, “Adam Sander”, “6 Snow 3”, and "Fritz Plowerbee." The winning names are set to appear on plows across the state this winter. - WMUR

That’s it for this edition of the Good News in New Hampshire Newsletter. This newsletter is free and shareable to anyone anywhere. We also post on Instagram, Linkedin, and Facebook.

If you are hungry for other stories of progress, innovation, and good news beyond the borders of the Granite State, I encourage you to check out our friends at Fix the News or The Progress Network.

Thanks for reading!

-Andy

Hello! Welcome to the Good News in New Hampshire Newsletter, part of Granite Goodness. We share stories of progress, solutions and positivity in and around New Hampshire.

My name is Andy DeMeo. I’ve lived in New Hampshire all my life.

At Granite Goodness we believe that being aware of progress and positivity leaves people more inspired to create their own. Optimism, kindness, and the will to solve complex problems are infectious qualities.

Also, being an optimist is just more fun.

As a general rule, this newsletter aims to include stories that fit the following criteria:

• The story is in or about New Hampshire

• The story is about something bigger than singular acts of kindness

• The story is about something good— people building, creating, or doing things that improve the world and reduce suffering

Just think- as long as it’s good and New Hampshire sized, it belongs here! If you have any story tips, let us know at hello@granitegoodness.com.

For more personal stories about progress in New Hampshire, make sure to check our podcast, Granite Goodness, available anywhere.

Enjoy!

GRANITE GREENERY - Sustainability & Environment

• NH wins $15 million for EV charging infrastructure

  • The New Hampshire Department of Transportation will receive $15 million to expand public EV charging infrastructure statewide, enhancing access in both urban and rural areas. The project will install 199 charging ports across nine regions, supporting the state’s transition to electric vehicles and promoting sustainable transportation. - US Dept. of Transportation

• UNH to help design nature based solutions for marginalized communities

  • UNH is leading a $6 million project, Equitable Nature-based Climate Solutions (ENACTS), to develop Nature-based Solutions (NBS) for climate resilience in medium-sized cities like Manchester, which will serve as one of the project’s key hubs. ENACTS will engage local communities to design socially equitable strategies—such as tree programs, public parks, and stormwater controls—aimed at addressing climate-related flooding and heat island effects. - UNH Today

• NH makes progress in food waste reduction

  • Starting February 1, New Hampshire will implement a groundbreaking food waste law aimed at reducing landfill use, cutting methane emissions, and providing new opportunities for food recovery, composting, and job creation. The law requires facilities generating over a ton of food waste weekly to redirect it to recovery or processing facilities, supported by a $500,000 grant program and infrastructure development, with the goal of cutting solid waste disposal by 25% by 2030 and 45% by 2050. - NH Bulletin

  • Shout out to Granite Goodness guest Tom Irwin, who wrote this article!

• UNH earns highest possible sustainability ranking for 3rd year in a row

  • The University of New Hampshire (UNH) earned a platinum rating from AASHE’s STARS program, making it one of only eight U.S. institutions and the only one in New England to achieve this top sustainability status. UNH’s efforts include sustainability courses in 90% of departments, research in 84% of areas, and initiatives like thermal energy storage and sustainable dining. - University of New Hampshire

  • Shout out to Granite Goodness guests Fiona Wilson and Dovev Levine, who lead and support UNH’s sustainability work

• Millions in federal funds assist NH energy efficiency and emission reduction measures

  • U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen celebrated the allocation of $70 million in federal funding from the Inflation Reduction Act to New Hampshire, part of a total $150 million secured for energy efficiency and clean energy programs in the state. These funds will help Granite Staters lower home energy costs through initiatives like home energy rebates, weatherization for low-income households, heat pump adoption, and solar programs, while also supporting workforce training and grid resilience projects. - Senator Jeanne Shaheen

GRANITE GRIT - Building & Infrastructure

• Executive Council allocates $50 million for new manufacturing facility

  • The New Hampshire Executive Council approved a $50 million bond to support GreenSource Fabrication’s new manufacturing facility in Charlestown, which will produce sustainable Ultra High-Density Interconnect (UHDI) printed circuit boards and create up to 100 new jobs. - NH Business Finance Authority

• State expansion of broadband reaches 60% completion

  • New Hampshire’s $90 million broadband expansion plan has surpassed the halfway mark, with 28,000 of 48,000 targeted addresses now having access to high-speed internet, according to the Department of Business and Economic Affairs (BEA). - Broadband Communities

• Laconia proposes 2,000 new home development

  • The proposed Laconia Village development would add 2,000 homes and approximately 3,500 residents over a decade, significantly expanding the city’s population and economic potential. - Laconia Daily Sun

• Northern Forest Center provides innovative solutions for rural middle-income housing

  • Through innovative investments and redevelopment projects, like restoring Lancaster, NH's Parker J. Noyes building and creating affordable middle-class housing, the center is fostering vibrant, sustainable communities while attracting workers, families, and new economic opportunities to the region. - Daily Yonder

• White Birch Center to be purchased and renovated as permanent home for regional food pantry

  • Merrimack County Savings Bank has contributed $50,000 through CDFA tax credits to support the expansion of the White Birch Center in Henniker, NH, enabling the purchase and renovation of a new building at 116 Main St. This project will expand access to affordable child care, add spaces for community services like senior and teen programming, and create a permanent home for the Henniker Food Pantry, enhancing vital resources for the region. - Patch.com

GRANITE GROWTH - Economy & Workforce

• NH moves up 7 spots in Uhaul’s “Growth States” ranking

  • The U-Haul Growth Index for 2024— an indicator of which states are experiencing resident inflows or outflows— shows New Hampshire moving from 40th to 33rd, bucking the northeast trend of decreases in the rankings. - UHaul

• NH population increases 2.3% since 2020

  • New Hampshire’s population has grown by 31,486 since 2020, fueled by nearly 30,000 new residents from other states, primarily Massachusetts, and 11,000 international immigrants. This positive migration trend brings exciting opportunities for growth in housing, the labor force, and school districts. - WMUR

• New report highlights the strength & diversity of small business in NH’s economy

  • A recent report from the NH Community Development Finance Authority states that “small businesses” comprise 99% of all NH businesses, with 49.8% of NH’s workforce being employed by small business. A growing share of these businesses are run by nonwhite or LGBT individuals. - NH Community Navigator

• State universities ease degree pathways, saving students time and money

  • New Hampshire's public higher education systems have introduced over 100 streamlined pathways to help community college students transition seamlessly into bachelor’s degree programs at Keene State College, Plymouth State University, and the University of New Hampshire. This collaboration between CCSNH and USNH aims to reduce costs, minimize debt, and strengthen the state’s workforce by offering affordable, accessible, and well-supported educational opportunities for residents. - Seacoast Online

GRANITE GADGETS - Science & Innovation

• UNH external research funding grows to $242 million

  • The University of New Hampshire's competitive research funding reached $252 million in fiscal year 2024, marking a $42 million increase from the previous year and more than doubling since 2019. This funding supports nearly 1,000 projects, tackling critical issues like ocean energy, agroforestry, tick-borne diseases, and space sustainability, while enhancing education, driving innovation, and maintaining UNH's prestigious Carnegie R1 research university status. - UNH Today

• Laconia based company works with UNH to build model for space weather

  • Scientists at the University of New Hampshire and Rogue Space Systems in Laconia are collaborating to develop an advanced model to predict space weather by tracking electron flux levels in radiation belts, aiming to protect satellites and spacecraft from damage. - WMUR

• Plymouth State University awarded grant to study seasonal snow

  • Plymouth State University has received a $192,000 NOAA grant to develop the nation’s first Snow Drought Index, analyzing nearly a century of Northeast snowpack data to better understand climate change’s impact on winter precipitation and related disasters. - Plymouth State University

• Dartmouth researchers study plankton’s potential as a carbon sink

  • Dartmouth professor Mukul Sharma is testing a new way to fight climate change by adding clay dust to the ocean to boost its carbon storage. Early experiments show clay helps trap carbon from tiny plants, sinking it to the ocean’s depths for long-term storage, with more research planned to study its potential and safety. - NH Public Radio

GRANITE GREATNESS: Human Interest & Our Favorite Stories

• New Hampshire to inaugurate newest “Kid Governor”

  • New Hampshire’s newly elected Kid Governor, 10-year-old Jade Adams from Harrisville, will be sworn in on January 28, alongside her Kid Executive Council. Jade’s platform focuses on banning animal testing in New Hampshire, with a three-point plan to promote cruelty-free products, organize a letter-writing campaign, and educate students statewide about animal cruelty. She credits her teacher, classmates, and family for supporting her campaign and looks forward to improving her public speaking and making a difference for animals. - NHPR

  • Shoutout to Granite Goodness guest Allyson Ryder, who helps support the Kid Governor program through NH Civics!

That’s it for this edition of the Good News in New Hampshire Newsletter. This newsletter is free and shareable to anyone anywhere. We also post on Instagram, Linkedin, and Facebook.

If you are hungry for other stories of progress, innovation, and good news beyond the borders of the Granite State, I encourage you to check out our friends at Fix the News or The Progress Network.

Thanks for reading!

-Andy

Hello! Welcome to the Good News in New Hampshire Newsletter, part of Granite Goodness. We share stories of progress, solutions, and positivity in and around New Hampshire. This is a special edition of the newsletter, where I am rounding up 99 of my favorite stories from 2024.

My name is Andy DeMeo. I’ve lived in New Hampshire all my life.

At Granite Goodness we believe that being aware of progress and positivity leaves people more inspired to create their own. Optimism, kindness, and the will to solve complex problems are infectious qualities.

Also, being an optimist is just more fun.

As a general rule, this newsletter aims to include stories that fit the following criteria:

• The story is in or about New Hampshire

• The story is about something bigger than singular acts of kindness

• The story is about something good— people building, creating, or doing things that improve the world and reduce suffering

Just think- as long as it’s good and New Hampshire sized, it belongs here! If you have any story tips, let us know at hello@granitegoodness.com.

For more personal stories about progress in New Hampshire, make sure to check our podcast, Granite Goodness, available anywhere.

GRANITE GREENERY - Sustainability & Environment

1. NH Audubon sees record breaking breeding season results for bald eagles and peregrine falcons*

   • The Bald Eagle was removed from NH's Endangered and Threatened Wildlife List in 2017 after 20 years of strong growth, while Peregrines, still state-threatened, continue their gradual recovery in the post-DDT era. - NH Audubon

   • *Shout out to Granite Goodness podcast guest, Willa Coroka, who works for NH Audubon!

2. NH Nature Conservancy wins $10 million for climate smart forestry

   • The Nature Conservancy in New Hampshire received a $10 million NRCS grant to administer a Regional Conservation Partnership Program, providing financial aid, training, and technical support to landowners in NH and Western Maine for climate-resilient forest management. - The Nature Conservancy

3. USDA awards $11.5 million to Connecticut River Conservancy (CRC)

   • The grant represents the largest funding award in the CRC’s history, with 100% of funds allocated toward restoration projects in New Hampshire’s section of the Connecticut River watershed. - Connecticut River Conservancy

4. SELT Conserves 154 Acre Great Bay Farm

   • SELT, the Town of Greenland, and the Smith family secured an easement on the iconic 154-acre Great Bay Farm, protecting wildlife, drinking water, and the Great Bay Estuary. - Southeast Land Trust of NH (SELT)

5. New 314-acre Addition to Jennings Forest in New Durham

   • Elisabeth Maley donated 314 acres across Middleton Road from the 385-acre Jennings Forest Reservation, now called the Jennings Forest Maley Tract. - Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests

6. NH startups with ocean-applicable tech selected to receive funding*

   • Blueswell—a collaboration between SeaAhead, Inc and the New England Aquarium, will help the young NH startups develop their products. - NHPR

   • *Shout out to Granite Goodness podcast guest, Jason Plant, who is a co-founder of Hydrophos Solutions, one of the startups chosen

7. Joint effort results in 730-acre parcel in Berlin remaining as forestland

   • The Conservation Fund and NH Forest Society are preserving 730 acres as a working forest with public access. - Conway Daily Sun

8. 558 Acres of critical habitat and water supply protected in Milton

   • SELT conserved the 558-acre Jones Brook property in Milton, protecting drinking water, diverse habitats, and two miles of trout-rich streams. - Southeast Land Trust of NH

9. Hopkinton family donates 455 acres for land conservation

   • A 455-acre mix of fields, forests, wetlands, and a beaver pond in Hopkinton and Henniker was donated to the NH Forest Society for permanent conservation. - Concord Monitor

10. 68 acre conservation project completed in Amherst, NH

    • Over the course of 5 years, the Amherst Land Trust worked with the town to acquire the land and place it into a conservation easement. - Union Leader

11. 140+ Acre Schafer Woods in Atkinson conserved

    • SELT, with support from the Town of Atkinson and a land donation from the Schafer family, conserved the 140-acre Schafer Woods. - Southeast Land Trust of NH

GRANITE GRID - Energy & Renewables

12. Monadnock Region enhances decarbonization efforts

    • Two Monadnock Region towns, Peterborough and Harrisville, received a $700,000 federal grant to install heat pumps in 200 buildings, advancing their goal of 100% renewable energy by 2050. - The Keene Sentinel

13. Large solar array coming to land along Merrimack River

    • A solar array capable of powering nearly 1,000 homes is being constructed along the Merrimack River in Concord. - Concord Monitor

14. NH among New England states awarded $389 million for grid upgrades

    • Named "Power Up," the proposal from the six New England states was submitted in April for the Department of Energy's $10.5 billion Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships grant program. - WBUR

15. Unitil launches New Hampshire's largest solar project, expected to power 1,200 homes

    • According to Unitil’s CEO, New Hampshire's largest solar project will feature over 11,000 solar panels, providing enough electricity to power more than 1,200 homes—nearly half the households in Kingston. - WMUR

16. NH Community Power announces new rates below utility prices

    • On Aug. 1, 2024 the Community Power Coalition of New Hampshire announced rates that remain lower than utility options. Community power enables municipalities to bulk-purchase energy, often at lower rates and with more renewable sources. - The Keene Sentinel

17. University of New Hampshire retains ranking as elite sustainability campus*

    • AASHE’s Sustainable Campus Index recognizes top-performing colleges and universities across 17 sustainability impact areas. - UNH

    • *Shout out to Granite Goodness podcast guest Fiona Wilson, who is the Chief Sustainability Officer at UNH

    • *Additional shout out to Granite Goodness podcast guest Dovev Levine, who works with UNH’s Sustainability Institute

18. Dartmouth College buildings receive recognition for sustainability efforts

    • The buildings incorporate passive solar, natural ventilation, rooftop solar, radiant heat, energy efficient windows, and other features. - Dartmouth

19. Seacoast communities compete to see who can support the most clean energy

    • Seacoast communities, including Dover, Durham, Newmarket, Portsmouth, and Exeter are competing to see which can rally the most residents to choose higher electric rates for more renewable energy through local community power programs, with the challenge running until January 2025, when utilities update rates. - NH Public Radio

20. Green Building Becomes More Affordable and More Common

    • Advocates say that opportunities in green building go beyond saving money, emphasizing a moral obligation for companies to prioritize society's future. - Business NH Magazine

21. New Hampshire law provides new solar incentives for cities, drops ineffective consumer rebate program

    • A new law in New Hampshire restructures the state's Renewable Energy Fund, redirecting funds to support municipal solar projects while ending a widely criticized residential solar rebate program. - Energy News Network

22. NH among New England states to win $450 million to launch heat pump adoption program

    • The five states have independently encouraged residents to switch to heat pumps, but the grant will fund a coordinated effort through the New England Heat Pump Accelerator program. - WBUR

23. Committee established to study feasibility and impact of a New Hampshire Clean Energy, Community Resilience and Conservation Corps

    • HB 1499 directs the committee to design a civilian national service program to address local needs, including deploying clean energy, improving energy efficiency, restoring coastal wetlands, managing forests, protecting natural resources, and promoting healthy, resilient communities in New Hampshire. - Legiscan.com

GRANITE GARDENING - Farming & Agriculture

24. New Hampshire’s First-Ever Food System Strategic Plan is Underway

    • Granite Staters will gain easier access to local foods through a new collaboration between the NH Food Alliance, the NH Department of Agriculture, and UNH, where experts are developing the first strategic plan to support farmers, fishermen, and consumers. - UNH Today

25. Innovative programs across NH help new farmers get their start*

    • High land prices in New England limit opportunities for new and young farmers, but innovative partnerships and loan structures like the NH Farm Future Fund—led by the Cheshire Conservation District and Land for Good—help reduce land costs through conservation easements. - Daily Yonder.

    • *Shout to Granite Goodness podcast guest Caroline Tremblay, who wrote the article covering this story!

    • Additional shout out to Granite Goodness podcast guests Shemariah Blum-Evitts & Rachel Brice, who work for Land For Good

26. UNH Receives USDA Grant to Boost Climate-Resilient Farming Practices

    • Rich Smith— leader of the project— emphasized that providing local farmers with research-driven, practical support is central to their mission, adding that they strive to help farmers implement eco-friendly methods that both boost productivity and sustain healthy agricultural environments. - UNH Today

27. Farming program gives new Americans a growth opportunity

    • Starting in Dunbarton, Fresh Start has expanded to plots in Boscawen and Concord, now farmed by individuals from Rwanda, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, South Sudan, Somalia, Nepal, Ghana, Tanzania, Cameroon, Uganda, and Zimbabwe. - Union Leader

28. Sheep grow in popularity as solution to NH landscape management

    • Livestock can take on labor-intensive tasks, such as grazing steep hills at Gunstock Mountain Resort, where sheep access hard-to-reach areas and control invasive species like poison ivy without chemical treatments. - NHPR

29. New law helps NH schools access local food

    • Governor Chris Sununu approved a two-year, $250,000 pilot program under House Bill 1678 to incentivize New Hampshire schools to buy local, reimbursing selected schools for foods sourced in-state, including meats, produce, cider, and maple syrup. - NH Business Review

30. New farm-to-table style market opens in Loudon

    • Organizers have stated that their goal is to help consumers with and celebrate the sources of their food. - Patch.com

31. NH Farms reach price parity with supermarket produce

    • Earlier last year, NH farm produce prices were competitive with supermarkets, offering not just strawberries but also tomatoes, corn, carrots, cucumbers, potatoes, free-range chicken, eggs, and ice cream. - The Union Leader

GRANITE GOVERNING - Politics & Government

32. Governor signs bill raising marriage age to 18

    • Gov. Chris Sununu signed a law last summer that will bar those under 18 from getting marriage licenses in New Hampshire, adding the Granite State to a list of 11 other states that have fully banned marriage for minors. - New Hampshire Bulletin

33. Governor signs bill into law limiting fees for rental applicants

    • New Hampshire House Bill 283 states that before collecting any rental application or renewal fees, landlords must disclose the fee amount to prospective tenants and refund any amount exceeding the documented cost of background or credit checks within 30 days if the unit is not rented to the applicant. - InDepthNH

34. Governor signs bill requiring accessible voting machines in every town

    • Supporters of the bill have said the law helps to support those with vision and print disabilities in voting independently and privately. - Concord Monitor

35. Governor signs bill expanding legal protections for ethnic hairstyles

    • HB 1169 establishes the right of NH residents alleging discrimination from “protective hairstyles” (braids, cornrows, afros, etc.) to “initiate civil action… for legal or equitable relief.” - legiscan.com

36. New Hampshire bucks trend of national poll worker shortage

    • Before the elections, New Hampshire officials reported that the state was on track to properly staff polling locations, with town moderators and clerks near Concord noting recruitment to be consistent with previous years and sufficient to meet needs. - Concord Monitor

37. New law gives children in abuse and neglect cases the right to legal representation

    • A new law in New Hampshire grants children the right to legal counsel in abuse and neglect cases, a move hailed as a landmark by Lisa Wolford, executive director of the Children’s Law Center of New Hampshire. - Union Leader

38. New Hampshire law requires more transparency in AI-generated political ads

    • The law mandates disclosure of AI-generated content in political ads within 90 days of an election and allows candidates or officials depicted in deceptive deepfakes to take legal action against those responsible. - NH Business Review

39. Governor signs bill expanding NH unemployment insurance eligibility to work from home employees

    • SB 330 “repeals disqualification for unemployment benefits for those not available for work outside a home.” - legiscan.com

40. New law improves access to legal services for those in need*

    • In 2022, the Legislature launched a pilot program allowing paralegals to represent clients in domestic violence, family law, and housing cases at select courts. SB 361 extends the program by five years and expands it statewide to all District and Family Division court locations. - In Depth NH

    • *Shout out to Granite Goodness podcast guest Sarah Palermo, who previously worked for the NH Campaign for Legal Services

41. Governor signs bills enhancing election education for youth, ballot access for elderly, and election transparency

    • House Bill 1014 mandates that civics instruction in New Hampshire schools include information on election and voting laws, aiming to boost youth participation in elections.

    • House Bill 1098 permits town clerks and their assistants to deliver absentee ballots to nursing homes and elder care facilities.

    • House Bill 243 requires election officials to allow public observation of voting tabulators on election night and to post the tabulated results within 60 minutes of running the machines. - New Hampshire Bulletin

42. Bipartisan bail reform signed into law

    • Supporters of the bill have said it helps ensures that NH law enforcement has access to top-tier technology, judicial infrastructure, and statutory authority to keep New Hampshire communities safe. - Union Leader

43. Governor signs bill approving medical marijuana for all conditions

    • HB 1278 allows doctors to recommend cannabis for any debilitating condition they believe it could improve, removing the requirement for patients to have specific qualifying diagnoses. - Marijuana Moment

44. NH passes law prohibiting racial profiling

    • House Bill 596 is New Hampshire's first law to define and ban profiling, prohibiting law enforcement from using characteristics like race, ethnicity, gender identity, or socioeconomic status as the sole basis for interviewing, detaining, searching, or stopping an individual. – NH Bulletin

45. Governor signs law to help ease housing shortage

    • House Bill 1400 grants municipalities more authority to relax zoning requirements and provide tax incentives for converting office buildings into residential spaces. - Concord Monitor

46. NH removes barriers to training more LNA’s

    • A new law aims to address New Hampshire's LNA shortage by easing the licensing process for people who speak English as a second language, as nearly 20% of LNA positions in hospitals were vacant as of April, according to the New Hampshire Hospital Association. - NH Public Radio

47. NH Expands Coverage for Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Services

    • A new program will support incarcerated individuals transitioning to community settings, enhancing access to affordable mental health and substance use treatment services for Granite Staters when and where they need them most. - NH Dept. of Health & Human Services

GRANITE GRIT - Building & Infrastructure

48. Invest NH program creating thousands of new affordable homes*

    • Supported by the NH Housing Finance Authority, Invest NH aims to build 1,500 apartments, with over 60% of those qualifying as “affordable”. From 2022-2023, local and state construction increased 20% to a total value of $1.18 billion. - The Keene Sentinel

    • *Shout out to Granite Goodness podcast guest Matt Gallant, who works for NH Housing

49. NH adds 150th resident-owned community, setting nationally leading standard in affordable homeownership

    • New Hampshire, the first state where residents of a manufactured housing community formed a cooperative to manage bylaws and maintain affordability, marked a milestone last year as Derry Oak Village, a 27-home park, became the state's 150th resident-owned community. - NH Business Review

50. NH DBEA announces housing growth program for municipalities

    • Administered by the NH Department of Business & Economic Affairs, the Housing Champion program enables unique funding opportunities for municipalities promoting workforce housing, improved walkability and public transport, and other pro-growth measures. - NH DBEA

51. 40 unit affordable housing development opens in Conway

    • River Turn Apartments is Avesta Housing’s first project in the Mount Washington Valley. - Avesta Housing

52. 96-units of affordable housing in Peterborough begin construction

    • Catholic Charities NH began building a 96-unit affordable and workforce housing complex on Vose Farm Road, supported by $625,000 in tax credits from the New Hampshire Community Development Finance Authority (CDFA). - Monadnock Ledger Transcript

53. Nashua completes 216 unit affordable housing complex

    • Monahan Manor contains 216-units, 206 of which are designated as affordable housing. - NH Business Review

54. Laconia adds 24 units of affordable rentals

    • Laconia Housing now provides homes for nearly 1,500 residents with units in Laconia, Belmont, and Northfield. - NH Business Review

55. Southern New Hampshire experiencing rapid development

    • Derry’s economic director, Berry Donovan, emphasized that many development projects are in the pipeline, with lots of inquiries for further development. - Union Leader

56. Portsmouth approves pro-housing zoning changes*

    • Portsmouth’s City Council approved a new zoning ordinance to encourage higher-density housing development along Commerce Way and Portsmouth Boulevard, aiming to address the city's housing shortage. - New Hampshire Business Review

    • *Shoutout to Granite Goodness podcast guest Deaglan McEachern, who is quoted in this article!

57. 100 unit apartment complex opens in Manchester

    • The mayor expects the new residents to support continued economic growth in Downtown Manchester. - Manchester Inklink

58. NH construction employment increase 15th largest in the country

    • Federal legislation has spurred building nationwide, leading to a 10.5% increase in NH’s construction employment since 2018. - Laconia Daily Sun

59. Franklin mills being rehabbed into new housing units

    • The former mills off Central Street in downtown Franklin have been revitalized into a vibrant mixed-use development, blending residential, commercial, and green spaces with modern apartments and amenities along the Winnipesaukee River. - Concord Monitor

60. Concord building new arts and restaurant development

    • Known as "Arts Alley," the project features a two-story structure situated between the Bank of New Hampshire Stage and the Concord Food Co-op. It will include a Friendly Toast restaurant, an outdoor dining space, and the renovation of the Norris Bakery and Homestead Stable Building into "Duke's," a Nashville-themed venue emphasizing live music. - Concord Monitor

61. Downpayment assistance for NH home buyers increases to $15,000

    • Beginning August 1, 2024, New Hampshire Housing revamped its Cash Assistance Program, moving away from a tiered percentage approach and instead offering flat amounts of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000 in downpayment aid. This increases the previous maximum of $10,000 to $15,000, providing homebuyers with more substantial support. - New Hampshire Housing

62. USDA rural development program awards $475,000 to Franconia, NH to build recreational facility

    • Thanks to grant funding, a multi-season recreation center will be built, featuring an outdoor refrigerated ice rink as well as pickleball and basketball courts. This new venue is expected to expand local activities, draw visitors throughout the year, and offer a valuable amenity for residents. - Northern Border Regional Development Commission

63. Construction begins on NH’s first net-zero housing units designed for middle class buyers

    • Aspire Residential plans to introduce 26 market-rate duplexes featuring net-zero design, expected to hit the market by the end of next year. - NHPR

64. Polling data shows increase in pro-housing attitudes among Granite Staters

    • A recent survey showed 62% of respondents believing the state should encourage municipalities to reduce barriers to housing development and 61% saying their towns should ease planning and zoning rules for new housing. - NH Housing

GRANITE GROWTH - Economy & Workforce

65. NH tops national rankings for economic freedom, again

    • New Hampshire ranks first in the latest Fraser Institute Economic Freedom of North America (EFNA) index. The EFNA examines government spending, taxation, and labor market freedom. - Forbes

66. NH outpacing national post-pandemic wage growth

    • Although the average American worker’s real wages haven’t changed much since late 2019, employees in certain states—like New Hampshire—are seeing notable pay bumps, particularly in picturesque regions that attract remote workers and face labor shortages. - Union Leader

67. Study shows Monadnock art and culture generates millions in economic activity

    • 90% of nonlocal survey respondents said their reason for visiting the region was to attend an artistic or cultural event, bringing some ~$25 million and supporting hundreds of jobs. - Keene Sentinel

68. Report indicates higher-ed sector produces billions in economic activity to NH

    • A recent report from the New England Board of Education estimates the 2023 economic footprint of NH’s higher-ed system— including jobs created, federal tax, and university system spending — to be ~$1.4 billion. - Business NH Magazine

69. Fall tourism season brought billions to New Hampshire

    • The NHDBEA estimated that ~3.7 million visitors spent ~$1.8 billion this fall. - NHDBEA

70. NH household median income increased in 2023

    • 2023 data shows median household income returning to 2021 levels. - NHFPI

71. Recent study corroborates positive impact of new housing on school systems

    • The study showed higher density housing as generating more net benefits than single family housing. - New Hampshire Housing

72. Portsmouth Naval Shipyard injects record $1.54 billion into regional economy

    • From 2022 to 2023, the number of civilian employees increased by ~100 to 7,469 and payroll increased 8% to $716.2 million - Mainebiz

73. Outdoor recreation provides $3.9 billion economic boost to NH

    • A recent report from the US Department of Commerce shows that outdoor recreation contributes $3.9 billion to New Hampshire’s economy, accounting for 3.4% of its GDP and supporting nearly 32,000 jobs, making it a key driver of the state’s economic health and ranking it 9th nationally in this sector's GDP share. - Granite Outdoor Alliance

74. Two airlines expand service to Manchester NH

    • The new Jet Blue routes will futher connect New Hampshire to North Carolina and Florida, generating job creation, tourism revenue, and expanded business opportunities. - NH Dept of Business & Economics Affairs

    • Sun Country, a budget-friendly leisure airline serving over 150 destinations across North America and the Caribbean, introduced its first scheduled passenger service at Manchester’s airport. This launch represents an annual operating commitment of more than $2 million. - Manchester Ink Link

75. NH broadband expansion coming to ‘bridge gaps’ to internet access

    • New Hampshire is poised to invest substantial federal funding to expand broadband internet statewide, with the goal of closing gaps among various social and income groups, according to state economic officials. - New Hampshire Business Review

76. New Hampshire is becoming more racially diverse

    • Although New Hampshire still ranks low in racial and ethnic diversity, recent data show that its BIPOC and Hispanic communities are expanding. - NH Center for Justice & Equity

77. New Hampshire population growth increases

    • Population data shows that rural areas around the White Mountains have experienced larger population boosts from July 2020 to 2023. - New Hampshire Business Review

78. Union Leader granted loan to keep pension plans afloat*

    • The New Hampshire Union Leader has been approved for a $1 million loan from the state's Business Finance Authority to help pay off long-standing pension debts that are burdening its finances. The loan will assist the newspaper in addressing its pension obligations without reducing employee benefits, but will require raising additional funds and restructuring executive payouts to ensure its long-term viability. - NHPR

    • *Shout out to Granite Goodness guest James Key-Wallace, who is quoted in this article!

79. Keene State College partnership offers training in advanced “diamond turning” precision manufacturing

    • Keene State College is launching a significant collaboration with AmeriCOM this year, creating alternative career pathways in optics manufacturing for those who don’t pursue a four-year degree. - NH Business Review

GRANITE GADGETS - Science & Innovation

80. University of New Hampshire launches new center for space technology

    • The Space Technology Hub aims to help meet the growing demand for talent and tech in the commercial space industry. According to the World Economic Forum, this sector could be worth up to $1.8 trillion by 2035, driven by advancements in satellite and rocket technologies. - UNH Today

81. UNH receives $10 million boost for New Hampshire biotech employment

    • Funded by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration, the award will support UNH’s Manchester campus in its goal of nurturing an innovative workforce for southern New Hampshire’s rapidly growing bio-fabrication sector. - UNH Manchester

82. Manchester’s ReGen Valley receieving $44 million via tech hubs program

    • Earlier last year, officials announced a $44 million federal investment to advance Manchester’s large-scale production of human tissue and organs. The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration recently designated the Advanced Regenerative Manufacturing Institute, also known as “ReGen Valley,” as one of 12 Tech Hubs across the country. - NH Business Review

83. $12 million granted to UNH to advance marine energy research

    • The Atlantic Marine Energy Center (AMEC), led by the University of New Hampshire, focuses on advancing ocean-based clean energy technology and building relevant expertise. A $12 million award from the U.S. Department of Energy will support AMEC’s research, infrastructure enhancements, and workforce training in the marine energy sector. - UNH Today

84. UNH wins $24 million to build weather sensing technology in space

    • UNH received $24 million to develop sensors that monitor solar wind and provide early warnings of space weather dangers, such as geomagnetic storms that can disrupt power grids, satellites, and GPS systems. - UNH Today

85. 3D printing innovator chooses UNH as home for first American location

    • On June 17, 2024, the University of New Hampshire hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the John Olson Advanced Manufacturing Center to welcome Australian metal 3D printing pioneer SPEE3D, which opened its first U.S. manufacturing and applications facility. - UNH Today

86. Keene Launches New Optics Lab

    • Keene State College, in collaboration with the American Center for Optics Manufacturing Inc., is boosting opportunities for students, faculty, and regional employers in precision manufacturing—an initiative that addresses local workforce needs. - The Keene Sentinel

87. UNH researcher wins national recognition for work with fisheries industry

    • Fisheries extension specialist Gabriela Bradt has been recognized by the Sea Grant Extension Assembly for her work with stakeholders to manage the invasive green crab. The work captured press attention for its collaboration with Tamworth Distilling that birthed a whiskey infused with Green Crabs. - UNH Today

88. NH SpaceX pilot joins milestone mission for commercial spaceflight

    • The Polaris Dawn mission outlines four key goals: achieving the highest orbit ever reached, carrying out the first commercial spacewalk, evaluating the performance of new Starlink communication systems, and conducting extensive testing on next-generation spacesuit technology that can endure temperature swings of up to ±250 degrees Fahrenheit. - WMUR

89. Dartmouth Health receives $28M grant to bolster innovation research

    • The National Institutes of Health recently awarded Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center a $27.7 million grant supporting projects capable of accelerating medical innovations. - Dartmouth College Geisel School of Medicine

90. UNH researchers study changes in environmental nitrogen levels across 17 years

    • The work could help scientists understand climate change’s impact on regional ecosystems via fluctuating nitrogen levels. - UNH Today

91. UNH researchers pioneer environmental acoustics research

    • UNH scientists measure nature sounds to estimate wildlife populations and work across disciplines to learn their effect on human health. - UNH SPARK

92. NSF awards UNH $8M to enhance science and tech workforce

    • An $8 million NSF grant to the University of New Hampshire will expand the state’s science and technology research and strengthen its STEM workforce by supporting colleges and universities statewide. One of only three such grants in the country, it boosts research opportunities, mentoring, training, and industry partnerships among community colleges, four-year schools, and universities. - UNH Today

GRANITE GRADUATES - Education

93. Plymouth State joins NH institutions easing path from community college to four-year degree

    • Five New Hampshire institutions, including Plymouth State, have streamlined pathways for students with associate degrees from local community colleges. - Plymouth State University

94. NH enlists Khan Academy for AI tutoring contract, first in nation

    • New Hampshire officials approved free access to a pilot AI tutoring and teaching assistant program for all teachers and students in grades 5-12 statewide. - Union Leader

95. NH leans on local control to find solutions for smartphones in schools

    • More transparent, collaborative policies are being tested and finding initial success across the state. - Concord Monitor

96. Rural NH high school experiencing education renaissance

    • Franklin is reinventing the conventional high school model to be more flexible and student-focused. Despite limited resources, the district is committed to helping teenagers thrive. - Union Leader

97. NH high school students self organizing to drive up voter registration at schools

    • Teens across New Hampshire are holding registration drives that have already added over 500 new voters this school year, including 45 in Exeter. Foundation support is helping nonpartisan groups like Open Democracy and The Civics Center promote youth voter engagement statewide. - NH Charitable Foundation

98. For qualifying students, Saint Anselm College now offers free tuition

    • To be eligible, students must have a GPA of 3.25 or greater and come from families with incomes below <$100,000. - Concord Monitor

99. Dartmouth Hitchcock offers two new advanced medicine programs

    • The first is a “mountain medicine diploma” (the first of its kind east of the Rocky Mountains) which aims to equip physicians, advanced practice providers, nurses, and paramedics with skills in mountain rescue and survival. The second, a new curriculum series to help progress the launch of innovative medical devices. - NBC

That’s it for this special edition of the Good News in New Hampshire Newsletter. This newsletter is free and shareable to anyone anywhere. We also post on Instagram, Linkedin, and Facebook.

If you are hungry for good news beyond the borders of the Granite State, I encourage you to check out our friends at Fix the News or the Progress Network.

*Special shout out to some of our podcast guests:

• Caroline Tremblay

• Fiona Wilson

• Dovev Levine

• Willa Coroka

• Sarah Palermo

• Jason Plant

• Shemariah Blum-Evitts & Rachel Brice

• Matthew Gallant

• James Key-Wallace

• Deaglan McEachern

who were involved in some of the stories and work listed above.

Thanks for reading!

-Andy

Hello! Welcome to the Good News in New Hampshire Newsletter, part of Granite Goodness. We share stories of progress, problem-solving, and positivity in New Hampshire.

My name is Andy DeMeo. I’ve lived in New Hampshire all my life.

At Granite Goodness we believe that being aware of progress and positivity leaves people more inspired to create their own. Optimism, kindness, and the will to solve complex problems are infectious qualities.

Also, being an optimist is just more fun.

As a general rule, this newsletter aims to include stories that fit the following criteria:

• The story is in or about New Hampshire

• The story is about something bigger than singular acts of kindness

• The story is about something good— people building, creating, or doing things that improve the world and reduce suffering

Just think- as long as it’s good and New Hampshire sized, it belongs here! If you have any story tips, let us know at hello@granitegoodness.com.

For more personal stories about progress in New Hampshire, make sure to check our podcast, Granite Goodness, available anywhere.

Enjoy!

GRANITE GREENERY - Sustainability & Environment

• USDA awards $11.5 million to Connecticut River Conservancy (CRC)

  • The grant represents the largest funding award in the CRC’s history, with 100% of funds allocated toward restoration projects in New Hampshire’s section of the Connecticut River watershed. - Connecticut River Conservancy

• UNH study finds coyotes may benefit from human activity

  • A University of New Hampshire-led study reveals that hunting practices may inadvertently increase local coyote populations by promoting younger, more reproductive groups. These findings offer insights for coyote management strategies that balance conservation and human-wildlife coexistence. - UNH Today

• Sullivan County ready to join Community Power Program

  • Sullivan County is working to implement a county-wide community power plan, aiming to reduce electricity costs and expand renewable energy options for smaller towns that lack the capacity to establish their own programs. This effort builds on the success of other Upper Valley towns, allowing residents to opt into programs that have already demonstrated significant savings and energy benefits. - NHPR

• NH Nature Conservancy wins $10 million for climate smart forestry

  • The Nature Conservancy in New Hampshire has received $10 million from the NRCS to administer a Regional Conservation Partnership Program, aiming to enhance climate-resilient forest management in New Hampshire and Western Maine. The project will support landowners with financial assistance, training, and technical support to implement climate-smart forest practices, improving forest resilience and addressing climate impacts. - The Nature Conservancy

GRANITE GRIT - Building & Infrastructure

• Portsmouth approves pro-housing zoning changes*

  • Portsmouth’s City Council approved a new zoning ordinance to encourage higher-density housing development along Commerce Way and Portsmouth Boulevard, aiming to address the city's housing shortage. The Gateway Neighborhood Overlay District (GNOD) will allow up to six-story multifamily buildings, with incentives for workforce housing and the potential for land transfers to support affordable housing initiatives. - New Hampshire Business Review

  • *Shoutout to Granite Goodness guest Deaglan McEachern, who is quoted in this article!

• Invest NH program creating thousands of new affordable homes

  • Supported by the NH Housing Finance Authority, Invest NH aims to build 1,500 apartments, with over 60% of those qualifying as “affordable”. From 2022-2023, local and state construction increased 20% to a total value of $1.18 billion. - The Keene Sentinel

• Conservation groups and housing organizations collaborate to address housing shortage

  • A unique partnership among a landowner, two conservation groups, and a housing organization has secured 800 acres on Cascade Hill in Berlin, New Hampshire, combining conservation efforts with plans to develop much-needed workforce housing. This innovative approach highlights the potential for collaboration to address both housing shortages and environmental stewardship. - New Hampshire Business Review

GRANITE GROWTH - Economy & Workforce

• Outdoor recreation provides $3.9 billion economic boost to NH

  • A recent report from the US Department of Commerce shows that outdoor recreation contributes $3.9 billion to New Hampshire’s economy, accounting for 3.4% of its GDP and supporting nearly 32,000 jobs, making it a key driver of the state’s economic health and ranking it 9th nationally in this sector's GDP share. - Granite Outdoor Alliance

• UNH receives $10 million boost for New Hampshire biotech employment

  • Funded by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration, the award will support UNH’s Manchester campus in its goal of nurturing an innovative workforce for southern New Hampshire’s rapidly growing bio-fabrication sector. - UNH Manchester

• Union Leader granted loan to keep pension plans afloat*

  • The New Hampshire Union Leader has been approved for a $1 million loan from the state's Business Finance Authority to help pay off long-standing pension debts that are burdening its finances. The loan will assist the newspaper in addressing its pension obligations without reducing employee benefits, but will require raising additional funds and restructuring executive payouts to ensure its long-term viability. - NHPR

  • *Shout out to Granite Goodness guest James Key-Wallace, who is quoted in this article!

GRANITE GADGETS - Science & Innovation

• UNH wins $24 million to build weather sensing technology in space

  • The University of New Hampshire received $24 million to develop sensors that monitor solar wind and provide early warnings of space weather dangers, such as geomagnetic storms that can disrupt power grids, satellites, and GPS systems. Partnering with NASA and NOAA, the sensors will be positioned near the sun and offer warnings within 10 to 100 minutes, depending on event speed. - UNH Today

• UNH Manchester launches mobile laboratory for science education

  • The University of New Hampshire at Manchester has launched the STEM-MoBILE, a traveling lab designed to educate students across New Hampshire about biofabrication, combining biology, biotechnology, and engineering to produce cells, tissues, and organs. This initiative aims to inspire interest in STEM careers and build a skilled workforce for the growing biofabrication industry in Southern New Hampshire's "ReGen Valley." - UNH Manchester

• Research suggests climate change could impact forests less than predicted

  • A study by the University of New Hampshire found that despite rising temperatures and increased nitrogen levels, carbon storage in New England forests remained stable due to enhanced plant root activity. The research highlights the importance of plant-soil interactions and suggests that forests may continue to act as effective carbon sinks. - UNH Today

GRANITE GLOBAL- Nonprofits & Public Sector

• Researchers and communities collaborate to enhance trail networks

  • A new initiative in New Hampshire called DIRT (Developing Interconnections for Regional Trails) is helping local trail organizations collaborate, share resources, and enhance their capacity through workshops, webinars, and networking. The project, led by UNH faculty, staff, and community partners, focuses on addressing trail management challenges and creating opportunities for sustainable trail development and economic growth in the region. - UNH Cooperative Extension

• NOFA NH offers grants to NH farmers affected by climate change

  • New Hampshire farmers can apply for grants from the Northeast Organic Farming Association to support resilience-building efforts against climate change, including purchasing supplies, soil tests, and insect prevention. The grants, which also offer disaster relief funding, are available to organic farmers or those transitioning to organic practices, with up to $3,000 per farm for multiple projects. - NHPR

GRANITE GREATNESS: Human Interest & Our Favorite Stories

• Manchester groups rise to the challenge of meeting need for adult English language education

  • As demand for English classes surges in Manchester, programs like the International Institute of New England face staffing and funding challenges, leading to long waitlists for students eager to improve their language skills. A new coalition of ESOL (English as a Second Language) providers aims to address these challenges by sharing resources, prioritizing refugees, and launching a website to help students find available classes more efficiently. Courtney Perron, leader of the coalition, said “The value that a new American brings into this community specifically is so broad and so impactful… All we have to do is unlock that language door."- NHPR

That’s it for this edition of the Good News in New Hampshire Newsletter. This newsletter is free and shareable to anyone anywhere. We also post on Instagram and Linkedin.

If you are hungry for other stories of progress, innovation, and good news beyond the borders of the Granite State, I encourage you to check out our friends at Fix the News or The Progress Network.

Thanks for reading!

-Andy

Hello! Welcome to the Good News in New Hampshire Newsletter, part of Granite Goodness.

We share stories of progress and positivity in New Hampshire.

My name is Andy DeMeo. I’ve lived in NH all my life. Granite Goodness is my love letter to this extraordinary state.

At Granite Goodness we believe that being aware of positivity and progress leaves people more inspired to create their own. Optimism, kindness, and the will to solve complex problems are infectious qualities.

Also, being an optimist is just more fun.

As a general rule, this newsletter aims to include stories that fit the following criteria:

• The story is in or about New Hampshire

• The story is about something bigger than singular acts of kindness

• The story is about something good— people building, creating, or doing things that improve the world and reduce suffering

Just think- as long as it’s good and New Hampshire sized, it belongs here! If you have any story tips, let us know at hello@granitegoodness.com.

For more personal stories about progress in New Hampshire, make sure to check our podcast, Granite Goodness, available anywhere.

Enjoy!

GRANITE GREENERY - Sustainability & Environment

• 68 acre conservation project completed in Amherst, NH

  • Over the course of 5 years, the Amherst Land Trust worked with the town to acquire the land and place it into a conservation easement. - Union Leader

• NH Housing Finance Authority launches “Greener Homes” program

  • The program will help property owners assess energy usage, conduct audits, and finance energy-saving upgrades and solar installations, reducing both costs and emissions. - NH Housing

• NH passes law to combat cyanobacteria blooms by wide margin in both chambers

  • HB 1293 aims to limit the amount of phosphorous making its way into storm drains, helping to reduce the downstream effect of bacterial blooms in water bodies. It passed the House 232-99 and the Senate 22-1. - NHPR

GRANITE GRIT - Building & Infrastructure

• NH towns proactively solving housing issues

  • Communities in Cheshire County are implementing zoning changes and approving new developments to meet growing demand as part of a regional push for a more accessible housing market. - Keene Sentinel

• Gilded age mansion renovated into affordable senior housing in Rochester

  • The Gafney Home features 19 units, including two in the fully restored carriage house. - Alliance NH

• NH DBEA announces housing growth program for municipalities

  • Administered by the NH Department of Business & Economic Affairs, the Housing Champion program enables unique funding opportunities for municipalities promoting workforce housing, improved walkability and public transport, and other pro-growth measures. - NH DBEA

GRANITE GROWTH - Economy & Workforce

• Study shows Monadnock art and culture generates millions in economic activity

  • 90% of nonlocal survey respondents said their reason for visiting the region was to attend an artistic or cultural event, bringing some ~$25 million and supporting hundreds of jobs. - Keene Sentinel

• Report indicates higher-ed sector produces billions in economic activity to NH

  • A recent report from the New England Board of Education estimates the 2023 economic footprint of NH’s higher-ed system— including jobs created, federal tax, and university system spending — to be ~$1.4 billion. - Business NH Magazine

• Cooperative Extension Community & Economic Development Team receives national recognition for work

  • The team was awarded for their work on NH’s Digital Equity Plan, the “Developing Interconnections for Regional Trails” collaborative, and the Housing Academy, where they helped promote education on expanding housing opportunities to NH communities. - UNH Cooperative Extension

GRANITE GADGETS - Science & Innovation

• UNH researchers publish research showing positive benefits of STEM learning in outdoor education settings

  • A recently published paper suggests exposing youth in rural communities to science and the outdoors can make STEM careers in the outdoor recreation sector more accessible to them, expanding growth opportunities for rural communities and enhancing the talent pipeline for a critically important economic sector for NH. - UNH

• UNH professor recognized for chemistry education impact

  • Dr. Christopher Bauer was given the “Achievement in Research for the Teaching and Learning of Chemistry” award by the American Chemical Society for a career of and innovation and success in chemistry education. His “investigative” method of teaching critical thinking to students around chemistry principles has infectiously spread to other parts of the university. - UNH Today

• UNH researcher awarded ~$572,000 NIH grant to study augmented communication

  • Dr. Kay Chen received an award to help improve data collection and analysis for clinicians using augmentative and alternative communication systems, often used to assist individuals with autism, down syndrome, aphasia, or ALS. - UNH

GRANITE GIVING- Nonprofits & Philanthropy

• UNH raises ~$50 million from alumni community

  • UNH’s 2023-2024 annual giving report showed a total of ~$50.8 million in fundraising commitments, including 22,426 individual donors, about half of whom contributed during the 603 Challenge. - UNH

  New ROC formed by residents with an assist from NH Community Loan Fund

  • The NH Community Loan Fund assisted homeowners at the Pleasant Pond Cooperative in collectively buying the lot for their manufactured-home park, now NH’s 151st resident owned community (ROC). - Manchester Inklink

• Hopkington begins community effort to save skate park

  • Community organizers and the select board are working together to fundraise $200,000 for repairs to Hopkington Spirit Skate Park. - Concord Monitor

GRANITE GREATNESS: Human Interest & Our Favorite Stories

• Innovative programs across NH help new farmers get their start

  • New England land prices can throttle opportunities for new and young farmers to begin their careers. In response, innovative partnerships relying on relational networks and novel loan structures are springing up across the state. One such example is the NH Farm Future Fund, a collaboration between the Cheshire Conservation District and the organization Land for Good, which helps reduce the cost of land for new farmers via conservation easements. Check out the full story from one of our favorite Granite-Do-Gooders, Caroline Tremblay. - Daily Yonder.

That’s it for this edition of the Good News in New Hampshire Newsletter. This newsletter is free and shareable to anyone anywhere. We also post on Instagram and Linkedin.

If you are hungry for good news beyond the borders of the Granite State, I encourage you to check out our friends at Fix the News or the Progress Network.

Thanks for reading!

-Andy

Hello! Welcome to the Good News in New Hampshire Newsletter, part of Granite Goodness.

We share stories of progress and positivity in New Hampshire.

My name is Andy DeMeo. I’ve lived in NH all my life. Granite Goodness is my love letter to this extraordinary state.

At Granite Goodness we believe that being aware of positivity and progress leaves people more inspired to create their own. Optimism, kindness, and the will to solve complex problems are infectious qualities.

Also, being an optimist is just more fun.

As a general rule, this newsletter aims to include stories that fit the following criteria:

• The story is in or about New Hampshire

• The story is about something bigger than singular acts of kindness

• The story is about something good— people building, creating, or doing things that improve the world and reduce suffering

Just think- as long as it’s good and New Hampshire sized, it belongs here! If you have any story tips, let us know at hello@granitegoodness.com.

For more personal stories about progress in New Hampshire, make sure to check our podcast, Granite Goodness, available anywhere.

Enjoy!

GRANITE GREENERY - Sustainability & Environment

• Portsmouth approves ~$1 million donation protecting 100-acre woods

  • The Portsmouth City Council recently approved a 7 figure donation to help conserve the 100-Acre Woods property in perpetuity. - SELT

• Concord prepares to save money with community power

  • Beginning in November, residents enrolled in community power will be supplied with electricity at 1.4 cents / kwh less than the next cheapest option, saving households with average use ~$10/month. - Concord Monitor

• 90-acre Oak Hill Farm in Concord permanently conserved

  • The Five Rivers Conservation Trust recently finalized the arrangement with the farm’s ancestral family, the Potters. - Concord Monitor

• Concord expands rail trail

  • The new trail would connect to the Northern Rail Trail that runs through Boscawen, eventually to the Pembroke Rail Trail. - City of Concord, NH

• NHPR launches series exploring accessible nature trails

  • NHPR’s series Something Wild is aiming to highlight the work being done to help make the Granite State’s natural beauty more accessible to all. - NHPR

GRANITE GRIT - Building & Infrastructure

• 100 unit apartment complex opens in Manchester

  • The mayor expects the new residents to support continued economic growth in Downtown Manchester - Manchester Inklink

• NH construction employment increase 15th largest in the country

  • Federal legislation has spurred building nationwide, leading to a 10.5% increase in NH’s construction employment since 2018. - Laconia Daily Sun

• Rochester planning to build 75 new homes in 2025

  • Local authorities anticipate minimal issues with permitting or committee approval. - NH Business Review

GRANITE GROWTH - Economy & Workforce

• Consumer Affairs ranks NH as 2nd best state to move to in 2024 survey

  • The Granite State registered impressive ratings for safety, health, education, and economic health. - Consumeraffairs.com

• NH biotech trade association adds new founding member

  • NH Life Sciences recently added Lonza Portsmouth, a world-leading pharmaceutical manufacturer, to its ranks. - NH Business Review

• Report ranks NH’s housing affordability favorably compared to neighbors

  • A recent economic forecast from TD bank rates New Hampshire’s median house price to income ratio as lower than Maine and Vermont’s. - TD Bank

GRANITE GADGETS - Science & Innovation

• UNH researcher wins national recognition for work with fisheries industry

  • Fisheries extension specialist Gabriela Bradt has been recognized by the Sea Grant Extension Assembly for her work with stakeholders to manage the invasive green crab. The work captured press attention for its collaboration with Tamworth Distilling that birthed a whiskey infused with Green Crabs. - UNH Today

• Dartmouth Health receives $28M grant to bolster innovation research

  • The National Institutes of Health recently awarded Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center a $27.7 million grant supporting projects capable of accelerating medical innovations. - Dartmouth College Geisel School of Medicine

• UNH researchers study changes in environmental nitrogen levels across 17 years

  • The work could help scientists understand climate change’s impact on regional ecosystems via fluctuating nitrogen levels. - UNH Today

• UNH researchers pioneer environmental acoustics research

  • UNH scientists measure nature sounds to estimate wildlife populations and work across disciplines to learn their effect on human health. - UNH SPARK

GRANITE GRADUATES- Education

• For qualifying students, Saint Anselm College now offers free tuition

  • To be eligible, students must have a GPA of 3.25 or greater and come from families with incomes below <$100,000. - Concord Monitor

• Dartmouth Hitchcock offers two new advanced medicine programs

  • The first is a “mountain medicine diploma” (the first of its kind east of the Rocky Mountains) which aims to equip physicians, advanced practice providers, nurses, and paramedics with skills in mountain rescue and survival. The second, a new curriculum series to help progress the launch of innovative medical devices - NBC

• New school in Allenstown begins first full academic year

  • The facility emphasizes experiential learning, offering kitchens, gardens, and a makerspace chock full of educational robotic tech. - Concord Monitor

GRANITE GREATNESS: Human Interest & Our Favorite Stories

• New Hampshire’s largest state park now wheelchair accessible

  • Bear Brook State Park, with assistance from the Bronco Wild Fund, recently obtained a Trackchair from America’s State Park Foundation, now available to use for park visitors. The chair is a state of the art motorized wheelchair that operates with treads, allowing it to traverse a much wider variety of terrain. The reception from park visitors has been enthusiastically positive, with park manager Christina Pacuk saying the chair “opens up a world of opportunity, to so many different people.” - Concord Monitor

That’s it for this edition of the Good News in New Hampshire Newsletter. This newsletter is free and shareable to anyone anywhere. We also post on Instagram and Linkedin.

If you are hungry for good news beyond the borders of the Granite State, I encourage you to check out our friends at Fix the News or the Progress Network.

Thanks for reading!

-Andy

Hello! Welcome to the Good News in New Hampshire Newsletter, part of Granite Goodness.

We share stories of progress and positivity in New Hampshire.

My name is Andy DeMeo. I’ve lived in NH all my life. Granite Goodness is my love letter to this extraordinary state.

At Granite Goodness we believe that being aware of positivity and progress leaves people more inspired to create their own. Optimism, kindness, and the will to solve complex problems are infectious qualities.

Also, being an optimist is just more fun.

As a general rule, this newsletter aims to include stories that fit the following criteria:

• The story is in or about New Hampshire

• The story is about something bigger than singular acts of kindness

• The story is about something good— people building, creating, or doing things that improve the world and reduce suffering

Just think- as long as it’s good and New Hampshire sized, it belongs here! If you have any story tips, let us know at hello@granitegoodness.com.

For more personal stories about progress in New Hampshire, make sure to check our podcast, Granite Goodness, available anywhere.

Enjoy!

GRANITE GREENERY - Sustainability & Environment

• NH startups with ocean-applicable tech selected to receive funding

  • Blueswell—a collaboration between SeaAhead, Inc and the New England Aquarium, will help the young NH startups develop their products. - NHPR

• University of New Hampshire retains ranking as elite sustainability campus

  • AASHE’s Sustainable Campus Index recognizes top-performing colleges and universities across 17 sustainability impact areas. - UNH

• Dartmouth College buildings receive recognition for sustainability efforts

  • The buildings incorporate passive solar, natural ventilation, rooftop solar, radiant heat, energy efficient windows, and other features. - Dartmouth

• NH brook restoration project blossoms into case study on regional collaboration

  • What started as a small project to restore a small section of stream eventually involved multiple organizations and a lot of community. Check out environmental journalism at its finest! - Daily Yonder

GRANITE GOVERNING - Politics & Governance

• NH Fish and Game hires first female executive director in its history

  • Stephanie Simek’s directorship was unanimously supported by the Fish and Game Commission. During her hearing, Simek highlighted her 30 year record of finding common ground with diverse stakeholders— including beavers— who Simek said could be “very contentious.” - NH Bulletin

• NBRC awards $750k to rural NH communities to improve healthcare access

  • Recipients include organizations in the towns of Littleton, Ammonoosuc, & Laconia - Northern Border Regional Commission

• Manchester awarded $3.7 million to hire and retain firefighters

  • The funds come from a FEMA program to help ensure adequate emergency personnel - Manchester Inklink

GRANITE GRIT - Building & Infrastructure

• Company awarded $8.5 million to expand rural internet access in New England

  • The NH communities served include Alton, Bridgewater, Canaan, Cornish, Enfield, Plainfield and five of the islands in Gilford - NH Business Review

• New Hillsborough RV park aims to attract camping & tourism

  • 45 years ago, Kevin McCauley purchased 150 acres of forest in Hillsborough. He’s spent years turning it into a one of a kind RV and nature park that he hopes will help revitalize the area. - Concord Monitor

• 40 unit affordable housing development opens in Conway

  • River Turn Apartments is Avesta Housing’s first project in the Mount Washington Valley. - Avesta Housing

• Keene transforming old school into affordable housing

  • Keene Housing recently began work on rehabbing the old Roosevelt School into 30 units, supplementing local affordable housing stock. - Keene Sentinel

GRANITE GROWTH - Economy & Workforce

• Promising Fall Tourism Season Expected in New Hampshire

  • NH expects 3.7 million visitors to spend ~$1.8 billion this fall. - NHDBEA

• NH household median income increased in 2023

  • 2023 data shows median household income returning to 2021 levels. - NHFPI

• Recent study corroborates positive impact of new housing on school systems

  • The study showed higher density housing as generating more net benefits than single family housing. - NHHFA

• Portsmouth Naval Shipyard injects record $1.54 billion into regional economy

  • From 2022 to 2023, the number of civilian employees increased by ~100 to 7,469 and payroll increased 8% to $716.2 million - Mainebiz

GRANITE GADGETS - Science & Innovation

• Researchers at Dartmouth College studying health of SpaceX mission crew

  • Former astronaut & Dartmouth Professor Jay Buckey helps a research team monitor the bone health of the Polaris Dawn crew, which can be compromised by microgravity. -WMUR

• Dartmouth College research suggests filtration potential for molecular tech

  • Research done by professor Ivan Aprahamian shows a proof of concept for a synthetic receptor capable of converting light into chemical energy, which could remove contaminants at a very small scale. - Dartmouth

• Dartmouth College scientists study history of Martian ice caps

  • Researchers are using satellite imagery to understand the potential application of Martian ice caps as a water source. - Dartmouth

GRANITE GRADUATES - Education

• Dartmouth College investing $500 million into new housing

  • The college recently unveiled a large investment into new campus housing, hoping to add at least 1,000 beds within the decade. - Dartmouth

• NH leans on local control to find solutions for smartphones in schools

  • More transparent, collaborative policies are being tested and finding initial success across the state. - Concord Monitor

• UNH launches new research initiative focused on early childhood education

  • The Carsey School recently unveiled a new effort to engage stakeholders in research on ECE in the Granite State. - UNH Carsey School of Public Policy

GRANITE GREATNESS: Human Interest & Our Favorite Stories

• Concord man from Rwanda helps immigrants find their paths

  • Jean Hakuzimana grew up in Rwanda and in 2018 moved the United States— specifically Concord New Hampshire. Since then, Hakuzimana has been devoted to helping other immigrants find community and work through his organization, NH Songa. In a recent interview, Hakuzimana said “I think New Hampshire is a good state to keep exploring being welcoming to refugees and New Americans from around the world.” - Concord Monitor

That’s it for this edition of the Good News in New Hampshire Newsletter. This newsletter is free and shareable to anyone anywhere. We also post on Instagram and Linkedin.

If you are hungry for good news beyond the borders of the Granite State, I encourage you to check out our friends at Fix the News or the Progress Network.

Thanks for reading!

-Andy

Hello! Welcome to the Good News in New Hampshire Newsletter, part of Granite Goodness.

We share stories of progress and positivity in New Hampshire.

My name is Andy DeMeo. I’ve lived in NH all my life. Granite Goodness is my love letter to this extraordinary state.

I created this project because I believe that being aware of positivity and progress leaves people more inspired to create their own. Optimism, kindness, and the will to solve complex problems are infectious qualities.

Also, being an optimist is just more fun.

As a general rule, this newsletter aims to include stories that fit the following criteria:

• The story is in or about New Hampshire

• The story is about something bigger than singular acts of kindness

• The story is about something good— people building, creating, or doing things that improve the world and reduce suffering

Just think- as long as it’s good and New Hampshire sized, it belongs here!

If you have any story tips, let us know at hello@granitegoodness.com.

For more personal stories about progress in New Hampshire, make sure to check our podcast, Granite Goodness, available anywhere.

Enjoy!

GRANITE GRID-BUILDING

Energy & Renewables

• NH Among New England states receiving $389M boost to help plug in offshore wind

  • “The Power Up New England plan — a collaboration between Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont, as well as local utilities — will expand and upgrade the shared interconnection points for the undersea cables that bring power from offshore wind farms to the grid.” - Canary Media

• First offshore wind energy sale becomes available for NH

  • “The Department of the Interior today announced it will hold an offshore wind energy lease sale on Oct. 29, 2024, for eight areas on the Outer Continental Shelf off Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine. If fully developed, these areas have a potential capacity of approximately 13 gigawatts of clean offshore wind energy, which could power more than 4.5 million homes.” - US Department of the Interior

• Federal money is streaming into hydro dams in NH for repairs and upgrades

  • “New Hampshire is set to receive almost $5 million from the federal government for upgrades to hydroelectric facilities. That money will flow to 17 projects throughout the state to help those facilities replace parts, make repairs, and create new pathways for river creatures to move up and downstream around impoundments.” - NHPR

GRANITE GARDENING

Farming & Agriculture

• New Hampshire’s First-Ever Food System Strategic Plan is Underway

  • “Granite Staters will have an easier time accessing locally grown and caught foods, thanks to a new effort by the NH Food Alliance, a food system-focused community outreach program of the Sustainability Institute at the University of New Hampshire, and the NH Department of Agriculture, Markets and Food. Experts at UNH and other food system organizations have been tapped to develop the first strategic plan in support of farmers, fishermen and consumers.” - UNH Today

GRANITE GOVERNING

Politics & Governance

• Governor signs child welfare reform law

  • “Senate Bill 417 will reduce out-of-state placements for youth in the state’s care and reinforced protections for kids who are unable to be placed in a New Hampshire facility.” - Concord Monitor

• NH passes law prohibiting racial profiling

  • “House Bill 596 is the first statute to define ‘profiling’ – ‘the practice of relying solely on race, ethnicity, color, national origin, nationality, language, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, political affiliation, religion, socioeconomic status, or disability’ in order for law enforcement to interview, detain, search, or stop a person..it is the first state statute to formally ban the practice.” – NH Bulletin

• Governor signs law to help ease housing shortage

  • “House Bill 1400, whose main sponsor was Rep. Rebecca McWilliams, will give municipalities greater authority to ease some zoning requirements and offer tax incentives for converting office buildings to residential use.” - Concord Monitor

• Governor signs law to help reduce fire risk at landfills

  • “Gov. Chris Sununu signed a bill Friday banning lithium-ion batteries and some electronic waste from disposal at New Hampshire landfills and incinerators, stemming a serious fire hazard.” - NH Bulletin

GRANITE GRIT

Building & Infrastructure

• Elm Grove Companies to break ground on $20 million - 52-unit workforce housing project

  • “Elm Grove Companies, has started construction of The Rapids On Cocheco, an approved 52-unit Workforce Housing community at 29 Wadleigh Rd. This will be the company’s 9th venture in the affordable housing arena with other affordable properties in the state totaling 430 apartments (completed and under construction)” - Nerej.com

• NH celebrates 150th resident-owned community, leading the nation in affordable homeownership

  • “New Hampshire is the first state where residents of a manufactured housing community purchased their park, forming a cooperative to retain control over bylaws, like lot rent, to maintain affordability within their community. Derry Oak Village, a 27-home park, celebrated a milestone this week as the 150th resident-owned community in the state.” - NH Business Review

• New junior high school opens in Manchester

  • “This year, 125 seventh and eighth graders are attending the $26 million, 45,000-square-foot school, which is now connected to the Trinity High building. The junior high school had been housed on Belmont Street with an elementary school for the past 14 years.” - NH Business Review

• Exeter replacing dilapidated building with new housing

  • “The plan calls for the demolition of the Cocheco Auto Repair building at 46 Main Street to make room for two three-story duplexes with four townhouse-style residential units” - NH Business Review

GRANITE GROWTH

Economy & Workforce

• NH Export Accelerator graduates first cohort of small businesses

  • “Launched in May and funded by the State Trade Expansion Program (STEP), the NH Export Accelerator, according to the program, “combines educational sessions and one-on-one advising to help businesses develop their export plan.” - NH Business Review

• New airline comes to Manchester Airport

  • “…Sun Country is a hybrid low-cost leisure carrier with flights to over 150 locations throughout North America and the Caribbean. While Sun Country has operated unscheduled charter flights into MHT before, Thursday’s flight marked the first passenger flights and an investment of over $2 million in annual operating capital into Manchester.” - Manchester Ink Link

• Chemotherapy firm opens new headquarters in Portsmouth

  • “Novocure’s new U.S. headquarters opened in Portsmouth on Sept. 3 with fanfare that included high praise from an assortment of New Hampshire’s elected officials, as well as optimism that its work on cancer treatments will help cement the state as the epicenter of life-altering health discoveries.” - NH Business Review

• NH Named top state for minority entrepreneurs

  • “New Hampshire has recently been recognized as one of the TOP 10 Best States for Minority Entrepreneurs, highlighting its supportive environment for business owners of diverse backgrounds.” - Let’s Move to New Hampshire

• NH makes top 10 list of best places to retire in US

  • “Kiplinger’s compares all 50 states across 46 key indicators, including tax rates, the cost of living, access to quality medical care, and recreational activities. New Hampshire stood out by scoring #5 for healthcare and #8 for quality of life” - Let’s Move to New Hampshire

GRANITE GADGETS

Science & Innovation

• UNH Receives $12 million award to advance marine energy research

  • “The Atlantic Marine Energy Center (AMEC), led by the University of New Hampshire, is working to develop the technology and skills that will help unlock the power of the sea as a renewable source of energy. A $12 million award from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) will advance those efforts by funding research, facilities and workforce development for the marine energy industry.”  - UNH Today

• Team of UNH researchers trek through Arctic to study rising sea levels

  • “The team from UNH joined 40 other researchers from across the globe with the mission to study methane levels, measure ice thickness and assess rising sea levels caused by warming Atlantic waters.” - WMUR

• UNH research examines potential weather resistant pasture crops

  • “…farmers can use the results of this study to manage their forage crops more effectively. For example, it may be best to limit red clover or avoid grazing and harvesting it when it is drought-stressed to keep cattle’s phytoestrogen consumption low.” - UNH Today

GRANITE GRADUATES

Education

• UNH Paul College Adds Supply Chain and Hospitality Tracks to Business Administration Major

  • “‘These new options not only provide students with greater flexibility but also equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in dynamic global markets in high-demand industries’ says Luciana Echazu, associate dean for undergraduate education.” - UNH Today

• UNH invests in student to career pipelines

  • “The strategic expansion of offerings is centered in two key initiatives: the creation of a high-impact practices unit – which includes an innovative Campus-2-Career program piloted last year that focuses on professional development for on-campus student workers – and the expansion of an employer relations unit to better establish and enhance connections to regional companies and organizations who are or could be employing UNH students.” - UNH Today

• NH high school students self organizing to drive up voter registration at schools

  • “[Voter registration] events…organized by teens, are happening all over the state, with more than 500 new voters registering during the 2023-24 school year — including 45 in Exeter. Foundation grants are supporting Open Democracy, The Civics Center and other nonpartisan voter-registration and youth organizing efforts.” - NH Charitable Foundation

GRANITE GREENERY

Sustainability & Environment

• NH Audubon sees record breaking breeding season results for bald eagles and peregrine falcons

  • "New Hampshire Fish & Game (NHFG) removed the Bald Eagle from the NH Endangered and Threatened Wildlife List in March 2017 after NH Audubon and our state and federal wildlife partners documented 20 years of strong population growth. Looking back this was clearly the right decision, and the population has continued to expand since then." - NH Audubon

  • “This marks the 44th breeding season in the post-DDT recovery era for NH’s Peregrines, which even today remain on NH’s state-threatened list. Their population growth in the Granite State continues to take place very gradually.” - NH Audubon

• Forest Society Purchases & Protects 730 Acres in Berlin: Cascade Hill Forest

  • “The Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests recently purchased and permanently protected a 730-acre parcel in Berlin, New Hampshire, now to be called the Cascade Hill Forest. The Forest Society will manage this land as a working forest, and it will remain open to the public for hunting, fishing, hiking, and snowmobiling.” - Society for the Protection of NH Forests

• Mt. Major Sustainability Upgrade Wraps Up

  • “For decades, the soil eroding from these areas has been washing down the trail, into streams and directly into Lake Winnipesaukee across Route 11 from the Mt. Major parking area. The new trail section requires much less maintenance over time and will reduce runoff and silting into Lake Winnipesaukee.” - Society for the Protection of NH Forests

GRANITE GIVING

Nonprofits & Philanthropy

• Car dealers kickstart fund to make driver education more accessible in New Hampshire

  • “In an effort to improve access to affordable and accessible driver education programs, the NH Division of Motor Vehicles, NH Auto Dealers Association, NH Driver Education Teachers Association, and the NH Commission for Human Rights have united to create the NH Driver Education Fund.” - Manchester Inklink

• Nashua recognized as a welcoming city by Welcoming America organization

  • “Nashua, New Hampshire, has officially been designated as a ‘Welcoming City,’ joining the Welcoming America initiative, a prestigious network dedicated to fostering inclusive and supportive communities across the nation.” - Let’s Move to New Hampshire

GRANITE GOSSIP

Positive content about NH

• NHPR: Give Back NH— Give Back New Hampshire is a bi-weekly segment that spotlights nonprofit organizations across the Granite State.

  • “On this week’s episode of Give Back New Hampshire, our focus is the Friends of the Northern Rail Trail. Their mission is to improve, promote, and maintain the Northern Rail Trail as a four season, multi-use trail.”

• City of Dover, NH: Dover Download - Dover Download is a weekly look at what's happening in the City of Dover, New Hampshire, hosted by Deputy City Manager Christopher Parker.

  • Rooting for Dover: Street Trees and Clean Energy Initiatives — This episode covers “the multiple benefits of street trees, including aesthetics, drainage, reducing heat island effects, and improving public health.”

GRANITE GREATNESS

Human Interest & Our Favorite Stories

• Christa McAuliffe statue is the first of a woman at New Hampshire's Statehouse

  • “Decades after she was picked to be America's first teacher in space, Christa McAuliffe is still a pioneer - this time as the first woman to be memorialized on the grounds of New Hampshire's Statehouse, in the city where she taught high school. McAuliffe was 37 when she was killed, one of the seven crew members aboard the Challenger when the space shuttle broke apart on live TV on Jan. 28, 1986. She didn't have the chance to give the lessons she had planned to teach from space. But people are still learning from her.”

  • “The 8-foot-tall (2.4-meter) bronze likeness atop a granite pedestal is believed to be the first full statue of McAuliffe, known for her openness to experimental learning. Her motto was: ‘I touch the future, I teach.’” - CBS

That’s it for this edition of the Good News in New Hampshire Newsletter. This newsletter is free and shareable to anyone anywhere. We also post on Instagram and Linkedin.

If you are hungry for good news beyond the borders of the Granite State, I encourage you to check out our friends at Fix the News or the Progress Network.

Special thank you to Zoe Dawson at NH Audubon for writing us and sharing some great news about rebounding populations of bald eagles and peregrine falcons in NH.

Thanks for reading!

-Andy

Hello! Welcome to the Good News in New Hampshire Newsletter, part of Granite Goodness.

We regularly round up and share positive news & media in and about New Hampshire.

My name is Andy DeMeo. I’ve lived in NH all my life. Granite Goodness is my love letter to our extraordinary state.

I created this project because I believe that being aware of positivity and progress leaves people more inspired to create their own. Optimism, kindness, and the will to solve complex problems are infectious qualities.

Also, being an optimist is just more fun.

As a general rule, this newsletter aims to include stories that fit the following criteria:

• The story is in or about New Hampshire

• The story is about something bigger than singular acts of kindness

• The story is about something good— people building, creating, or doing things that improve the world and reduce suffering

Just think- as long as it’s good and New Hampshire sized, it belongs here!

If you have any story tips, let us know at hello@granitegoodness.com.

For more personal stories about New Hampshire people making the world a better place, make sure to check our podcast, Granite Goodness, available anywhere.

Enjoy!

GRANITE GRID-BUILDING

Energy & Renewables

• Somersworth breaks ground on NH's first solar farm at Superfund site

  • “On Monday, the EPA joined U.S. Congressman Chris Pappas and local officials to celebrate the groundbreaking at the site of the former Somersworth Sanitary Landfill. This is the first time in New Hampshire that a portion of a Superfund site has been redeveloped into a solar farm.” - Foster’s Daily Democrat

• NH rewriting rules to help streamline new renewables projects

  • “Gov. Chris Sununu approved Senate Bill 391 on Friday, which pushes the department to ‘set cost effective, timely, and predictable processes for customer generators wishing to interconnect to the state’s electric grid,’ something that has been a challenge for larger solar projects in the state.” - NHPR

• USDA invests $10.6 million into rural New Hampshire

  • “Local businesses Caanan Hardware and Supply, The Amazing Flower Farm in New Ipswich, and the Flag Hill Distillery in the town of Lee will all receive funds to install solar arrays, which will offset energy use and subsequently save the businesses thousands of dollars each year, according to the announcement.” - NBC

• Largest solar array in state halfway complete

  • “The 8,800 solar panels will become the state’s largest solar array when it goes live. Five megawatts of panels will be installed on the 14-acre field behind the new building and power the county complex.” - Derry News

• Monadnock Sustainability Hub launches new program

  • “Electrify Monadnock is a new program from the Monadnock Sustainability Hub, designed to help households in the region pivot toward more efficient and cleaner energy use.” - Monadnock Sustainability Hub

GRANITE GARDENING

Farming & Agriculture

• NH farms attracting more and more agrotourism

  • “‘It’s well laid out,” Hardy says. ‘We have dedicated areas for PYO that are mowed, and we have dozens of varieties of apples. Last year, the Hippo named us the best PYO in the state, and people travel for that. Agritourism is important for PYO and goes in hand with the fall tourism.’” - NH Magazine

GRANITE GOVERNING

Politics & Governance

• AG prepares to enforce new law aimed at protecting consumers online privacy

  • “Under Senate Bill 255, the NH Data Privacy Act, consumers will gain a number of rights on Jan. 1 to protect their personal information. These rights include:

    • To confirm whether or not a business is controlling or processing their personal data.

    • To correct any inaccuracies in their personal data being processed by businesses.

    • To demand the deletion of personal data obtained from or about them.

    • To obtain a copy of their personal data being controlled or processed by the business.

    • To opt out of the future processing of their personal data for purposes of targeted advertising, the sale of personal data, or profiling.” - NH Business Review

• FEMA grants for firefighters coming to Lakes Region

  • “The grants will allow firefighters and other first responders to obtain needed equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training and other resources. In additional to awards to municipalities, the state is receiving nearly $500,000 in grant funds.” - Laconia Daily Sun

• New data shows NH violent crime rate 2nd lowest in country

  • Recent data shows New Hampshire’s violent crime rate at 125 incidents per 100,000 individuals, about 300% lower than the national average of 322. - FBI Crime Data Explorer

• A new program could offer financial help to NH communities when disaster strikes

  • “New Hampshire communities have a new option for financial help in the wake of a disaster, after a new relief program was signed into law this summer.

    The change allows the governor to declare a disaster — as opposed to waiting for the federal government to do so — and allows municipalities to apply for up to $25,000 per year to help with recovery.” - NHPR

GRANITE GRIT

Building & Infrastructure

• Greenfield reduces barriers to building accessible housing

  • “Greenfield’s recent changes to the town’s zoning bylaws regarding accessory dwelling units, or ADUs, will provide increased opportunity for affordable housing as well as financial opportunity to residents, according to members of the town’s Zoning Board of Adjustment and the Planning Board.” - NH Business Review

• Public Corporation New Hampshire Housing receives $6 million in annual funding to support housing for those struggling with opioids

  • “The program will provide capital funding to projects that create new supportive housing for households with a member who has Opioid Use Disorder and other co-occurring disorders and conditions.” - NH Housing

• Londonderry begins construction on 409 unit housing complex

  • “The 110-acre development would have 409 housing units along with Envision Technology, Onpoint Systems, and other tech companies, and a daycare designed to provide for as many as 200 children. It would also have recreational areas and general retail areas for restaurants and shopping.” - Derry News

• Hampton Falls greenlights 72 unit condo project

  • “Developer Joe Faro has plans to demolish Faro Gardens restaurant at 12 Lafayette Road to make way for 55-plus community featuring one- and two-bedroom units, a pool and clubhouse.” - NH Business Review

GRANITE GROWTH

Economy & Workforce

• All 10 New Hampshire counties see population growth since pandemic

  • “‘With continued investment in affordable housing and high-speed internet access, we expect to see these trends continue,’ Caswell said, ‘and with proper planning, we can continue to welcome new residents and not impact our quality of life.’” - NH Department of Business and Economic Affairs

• NH Ranked 5th best state to live in by WalletHub

  • “To identify the best states to live in, WalletHub compared the 50 states based on 51 key indicators of livability. They range from housing costs and income growth to the education rate and quality of hospitals.” - WalletHub

• NH outpacing national post-pandemic wage growth

  • “The typical U.S. worker’s pay is about the same as it was in late 2019, after accounting for inflation. But workers in some states, including New Hampshire, have seen sharply higher earnings, especially in scenic areas that are appealing to remote workers and have labor shortages.” - Union Leader

• Polling data shows increase in pro-housing attitudes among Granite Staters

  • The poll “…showed growing skepticism of local control over zoning: 62% agreed that the state should do more to encourage municipalities to remove barriers to housing development and 61% of NH voters think that their towns and communities should loosen planning and zoning restrictions on new housing.” - NH Housing

GRANITE GADGETS

Science & Innovation

• UNH physics researcher awarded $1.25 million in funding

  • “Shawna Hollen, associate professor of physics, has been named to The Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation’s 2024 cohort of Experimental Physics Investigators. The prestigious honor and funding will advance understanding of the link between charge density waves and quantum dots, two physical phenomena that could lead to improvements in quantum computing.” - UNH Today

• UNH researchers propose equitable solution for allocating welfare funds

  • “In a recent study published in Manufacturing & Service Operations Management, researchers applied the optimization-based model to a case study involving the Massachusetts child care subsidy program, resulting in a 3% increase in societal impact while eliminating inequity.” - UNH Today

• UNH Researchers Drive Advancements in Dairy Farming

  • Scientists at the New Hampshire Agricultural Experiment Station (NHAES), will play a key role in supporting and advancing that change, offering solutions to everything from herd health and nutrition, disease management and operational costs – all with the goal of making dairy farming more efficient, effective and sustainable.” - UNH Today

GRANITE GRADUATES

Education

• NH first state nationwide to enter into AI tutoring contract with Khan Academy

  • “New Hampshire education officials have approved free access to a pilot artificial intelligence teaching assistant and tutoring platform to all teachers and students in grades 5-12 across the state.” - Union Leader

• Rural NH high school experiencing education renaissance

  • “…Franklin is shifting the traditional high school experience from timeworn and time-honored into something fluid, evolving and student-driven. It’s happening in a district historically strapped for workforce and money — but with a desire to do whatever it takes to help teens to succeed.” - Union Leader

• Manchester school district reducing cell phone use in schools

  • “Manchester school officials are scheduled to discuss new rules that would strictly limit the use of electronic devices like cellphones by students during school hours.” - Union Leader