In a creative response to the pandemic, Beaver Brook Association in Hollis is launching its first Winter Online Auction, set for Feb. 12-21. Funds support BBA’s mission of high-quality outdoor education, land protection and environmental awareness. More than 150 items ensures something for everyone.

More than 30 gift cards from local establishments and a number of staff-guided family hikes are included, plus a private map-and-compass course for group fun. Original paintings and photographs by local artists will be on offer.

Local stone mason Wes Toms has crafted a large piece of Bluestone in the shape of New Hampshire that will be up for bids. Vintage Beaver Brook trail signs, an antique cider press and cords of firewood from sustainably harvested Beaver Brook trees will be offered along with jars of maple syrup from BBA trees.

The online auction empowers BBA to fundraise in lieu of cancelled events like its Fall Festival and Annual Dinner while continuing to celebrate local artists, photographers, businesses, artisans and other creative individuals.

“We turned to our trustees and members to develop a “Help a Small Business and Help Beaver Brook” campaign,” said Anna Birch, trustee. “All involved bought dozens of gift cards from their favorites including Forge & Vine, Riverwalk Café, Michael Timothy’s, Culture, Lull Farm, and many more.”

The online auction includes two special features, a raffle and a “Fund a Need” donation option. Being raffled off is a “Solo Stove,” an innovative, portable, low-smoke fire pit. Tickets are $10 and can also be purchased on the auction site. “Fund a Need” is a way to contribute specifically to equipment and maintenance costs, trail work, the Maple Hill gardens, educational scholarships and the like.

The BBA, like many nonprofits, has suffered revenue losses with the cancellation of various events and programs due to safety concerns. However, the staff has adapted to tailoring programs and increasing outdoor events such as, “Music in the Gardens,” in partnership with Symphony NH.

“Beaver Brook hopes that the community will support this important effort,” said Beaver Brook Executive Director Thom Davies. “We’ve heard from many in the community that the Beaver Brook trail system, gardens and safe outdoor educational offerings have been incredibly appreciated and utilized this year with record numbers of people enjoying our trails.”

Beaver Brook’s generous sponsors for the online event include NHOMS, Wilkins Lumber Company, Tulley Automotive Group and Admiralty Chimney, along with Merrimack Valley Business Machines, Control Air and Hollis Veterinary Hospital, plus Lull Farm and Alec’s Shoes. Family Sponsors thanked include Russell & Amy Kellner, Kim & Ginny Kellner & the May/Kuchta family.

The online auction site can be previewed until Friday, Feb. 12, when it goes live. The auction will remain open until Sunday, Feb. 21. Winning gift cards will be mailed. Physical item pick-up will take place in the Spear Room, safely distanced with outside pickup on Monday, Feb. 22 and Wednesday, Feb. 24, at the BBA, Maple Hill Farm, 117 Ridge Road, in Hollis. Link to the auction by visiting online: beaverbrook.org.