Posted: 03/19/07

Are you interested in walking some of the 50 miles of trails at one or more properties in the Charles River Valley or are you already doing this?  As you can imagine, we can’t inspect all those trails on a regular basis without you!  By becoming a trail steward and reporting observations related to trail conditions, erosion, and signs or markers (or even animal sightings or invasive plant locations) you can be a great help just by taking a leisurely hike.  Whether a tree has just fallen across the trail or a culvert has been blocked causing flooding, your involvement in this program can help us maintain these special places by providing information to us in a timely manner.  You may also perform minor trail maintenance (removing fallen branches, stones, and other trail impediments or trimming back small vegetation). 

Other roles that you may assist with depending on knowledge and interest include: providing visitors with information on the property such as trails, distances & directions, features & attractions, history, and ecology;  building public awareness of The Trustees of Reservations;  promoting the use of other Trustees properties and educational programs and events;  promoting membership; and informing (but not enforcing) visitors of regulations,if necessary.
 
Occasional gatherings will be held to meet other trail stewards and work on trail repairs or improvement projects.  Although not required, these events should be a fun time!  Contact us to find out about the simple process of monitoring trails and reporting your findings using a checklist form.

Comfortable hiking trails alone (unless friends or family join you).  While many of the trails are easy to walk, some may be moderate to steep.  You can choose which trails you are able to cover.

Weekly preferred.  Bi-weekly is okay.  Seasonally or year-round.  Any time, any day!  1.5 hours per visit average although actual time on trail may vary according to your availability and the trails you are hiking. The first orientation for trail stewards at all reservations will be scheduled for mid to late April at Rocky Woods in Medfield.