HARTFORD — Ben Fletcher has been named Hartford’s first ever “Conservator of the Year” in recognition of his work on the Hartford Salamander Team and promoting conservation around Hartford.

Hartford’s Conservation Commission established the award in 2025 to honor people whose “actions advance the Commission’s mission to protect natural resources, foster environmental education, and build community awareness around conservation,” according to a news release from the Commission.

Ben Fletcher, left, is Hartford’s first “Conservator of the Year.” (Courtesy Hartford Conservation Commission)

The commission chose Fletcher “for his exceptional ability to connect people with nature — and with each other,” according to the release.

Fletcher started the Hartford Salamander Team that helps migrating amphibians safely cross roads in the spring to reach breeding habitats. He also organizes educational and recreational activities on conserved and town-owned lands and organizes showings of environmental films and discussions in White River Junction.

Clare Shanahan can be reached at cshanahan@vnews.com or 603-727-3216.