Learn about the proposed gravel mine adjacent to Watkins Lake State Park and County Preserve

Map credit: Irish Hills Concerned Citizens, courtesy of Manchester Voices Indivisible.

submitted by Linda & Peter Knox, Manchester Voices Indivisible

On Tuesday, February 3, 2026, from 6:30 to 8pm at the Kingsley-Jenter House, 302 E Main St, members of Irish Hills Concerned Citizens (IHCC) will be the featured speakers at Manchester Voices Indivisible’s first general meeting this year. IHCC was formed earlier this month to educate and activate local citizens about the proposed large gravel mining–extraction operation on land adjacent to Watkins Lake State Park and County Preserve.  See “New Group Formed in Response to Gravel Mine.”

Following a very well-attended informational event in Brooklyn on January 24, the group will bring updates to this meeting in Manchester. Learn more about how the grassroots organization is guiding concerned citizens and consulting with scientists, geologists, and attorneys to understand the proposed mining operation and its potential impacts on Watkins Lake State Park and County Preserve. If you have skills or experience in this area, or if you simply support the IHCC cause, come to the meeting to learn how you can become involved.

After the presentation, Manchester Voices Indivisible will offer a sneak preview of its 2026 public events program. All are welcome to attend.

For more information on Irish Hills Concerned Citizens visit  https://www.ihccinfo.org. For more information on Manchester Voices Indivisible, visit https://www.manchester-voices-indivisible.org.

Map credit: Irish Hills Concerned Citizens, courtesy of Manchester Voices Indivisible.

Map credit: Irish Hills Concerned Citizens, courtesy of Manchester Voices Indivisible.

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by Sara Swanson

Sara Swanson is an editor, writer and a founder of the Manchester Mirror.