Woody Hollow Cooperative in Boscawen, New Hampshire is a 30-lot, resident-owned community that had to face the reality of aging water infrastructure. With a system dating back to the 70s, residents suffered the effects of poor surface drainage, constant leaks and ruptures, and the resulting health and safety concerns. Having exceeded its useful design life, and realizing chronic water loss through deteriorated pipes, the infrastructure required a wholesale update that couldn’t be ignored.

Apart from disrupting everyday life, the proliferation of leaks increased the risk of soil-borne bacteria entering the distribution system. Community leaders knew they needed a comprehensive plan to address the various issues affecting resident health and well-being, instead of applying temporary fixes that only prolonged the intervals between system malfunctions. With project guidance supplied by CMA Engineers out of Portsmouth, NH, they turned to state and federal resources for help with funding.

USDA Rural Development answered the call for aid with $955,000 through a Water & Waste Disposal loan and grant, and the New Hampshire Community Development Finance Authority (CDFA) contributed a $500,000 Community Development Block Grant (CBDG). Contractor John H. Lyman & Sons then worked tirelessly to replace deteriorated and damaged pipes, update electrical systems and restore road surfaces and drainage, improving quality of life for 68 people in this rural community.