08/14/2026
Green Mountain Conservation Group (GMCG) invites the community to Raise a Glass to Clean Water!, a special benefit on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. at The Preserve at Chocorua.
Tickets: https://events.com/r/en_US/tickets/raise-a-glass-to-clean-water-tamworth-october-1067658
The evening will bring together community members, conservation supporters, business and community leaders, and regional partners for a celebration of the waters and natural resources that connect us all. With a goal of raising $25,000, proceeds will support GMCG’s ongoing work protecting the lakes, rivers, groundwater, forests, and wetlands of the greater Ossipee Watershed through research, education, advocacy, and land conservation.
A highlight of the evening will be a lively live auction emceed by longtime Mount Washington Valley broadcaster George Cleveland, featuring an exceptional collection of one-of-a-kind travel, culinary, outdoor, and cultural experiences.
Among the experiences already lined up is an extraordinary Maine whale-watching adventure for two, traveling from Bar Harbor to Cashes Ledge, a remote marine destination of remarkable biodiversity. This 32-mile-long submarine mountain range supports the largest and densest kelp forest in the northwestern Atlantic and has been described by renowned marine biologist Sylvia Earle as “The Yellowstone of the North Atlantic.” Adventurous guests may encounter fin or humpback whales, dolphins, seals, and an extraordinary array of seabirds before returning to Mount Desert Island for an overnight stay at a charming bed and breakfast.
For food lovers, another auction experience offers a seasonal, six-course foraged and farm-to-table pairing dinner for eight in one of Tamworth’s beautiful historic homes. Sommelier Gio, Chef Justin, and Mixologist Whitney will create a seasonal menu tailored to the guests, featuring locally sourced and foraged ingredients where possible, with each course paired with hand-selected wines and craft cocktails.
And these are just two of nearly a dozen incredible experiences that will be revealed in the coming weeks. From unforgettable adventures to unique culinary and cultural experiences, the live auction will offer guests opportunities that go far beyond the traditional auction package—all while raising critical funds to protect clean water.
With George Cleveland at the helm, the live auction promises plenty of fun and friendly competition throughout the evening, giving guests the chance to take home truly memorable experiences while directly supporting conservation in the greater Ossipee Watershed.
Throughout the evening, guests will also enjoy elegant hors d’oeuvres, beer, wine, and mocktails, live music by the Keller Fripp Duo, and an opportunity to connect with friends, neighbors, conservation supporters, outdoor enthusiasts, and community leaders from across the region.
“We are excited to welcome our community to this special evening,” said Nancy Ritger, Executive Director of Green Mountain Conservation Group. “Our work begins with clean water. Every protected forest, conserved shoreline, restored stream, and educational program helps strengthen the health of our communities. We invite everyone who values this special region to join us in celebrating conservation while investing in the future of the waters we all share.”
Clean water is the foundation of a healthy community. It provides safe drinking water, supports thriving forests and wildlife, sustains outdoor recreation and local agriculture, and fuels the tourism economy that helps define the Mount Washington Valley and Ossipee Watershed. Funds raised through Raise a Glass to Clean Water! will directly support GMCG’s watershed protection, land conservation, scientific research, water quality monitoring, environmental education, and community outreach programs.
GMCG is also inviting area businesses to participate as event sponsors. Sponsorship offers local businesses an opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to the clean water and natural resources that underpin the region’s quality of life and economy.
Early Bird tickets are available for $50 through September, with admission increasing to $60 thereafter. Advance registration is encouraged.
Tickets: https://events.com/r/en_US/tickets/raise-a-glass-to-clean-water-tamworth-october-1067658
Thanks to our sponsors:
Maxfield Real Estate
Margie MacDonald Realtor
Purity Spring Resorts
The Preserve At Chocoruaa
Gamwell, Caputo, Kelsch & Co.
Cobalt Construction Management
Cormack Construction Management
Riverside Physical Therapy
Windy Ridge Corporation
Chinook Plumbing Services
Bohemian Home
F.W. Webb Company
Thrivent
Northern Tire
