Westport Town Farm - The Trustees of Reservations

Property Description	40 acres \| Established 2007
At Westport Town Farm, livestock graze on open fields that boast an expansive view of the Westport River. An antique farmhouse, dairy barn, corn crib, and stone walls dating back to Colonial times complete the picture of this working farm that served as a “poor farm” and infirmary for more than 100 years. The Trustees are now pursuing a community gardening initiative where volunteers will grow vegetables to help feed people in need in Westport and nearby towns. With its 10-acre working hayfield, extensive salt marsh, and broad tidal river, Westport Town Farm is not only scenic, but of historic and ecological value—a unique combination. The farms’ dual legacy of nurturing those in need and raising vegetables and livestock weave together at this remarkable coastal landscape, where you’ll see ospreys, gulls, and the occasional bald eagle soar overhead. Having survived threats from deterioration, development, and demolition over the past 50 years, today the farm—which is owned by the Town of Westport and managed by The Trustees—is being restored as a community amenity and public open space that’s perfect for family picnics, bird watching, and more.

Community Gardens In the fall of 2008, The Trustees initiated a Community Gardens project that honors the Town Farm’s tradition of helping to feed people in need in Westport and nearby towns. A farm manager will oversee a cadre of volunteers to help grow and harvest the vegetables. With all of the produce donated to those in need, The Trustees hope to garner public support to fund this project beyond the first year. A pleasant and fulfilling experience awaits volunteers, who can come to the Town Farm for the morning, afternoon, or an hour to plant, cultivate and harvest fresh, wholesome vegetables for those in need. Gardening is good exercise, as well as a great way to enjoy the outdoors in a beautiful setting. For information on volunteering, contact Steve Connors at 508.636.5780.
Programs and Events Guided programs and special events are offered throughout the year. For upcoming events see our events calendar or download the Westport Summer Events Flyer (pdf).
Trails
An easy, 1-mile trail leaves from the barnyard and passes down a charming farm lane along stonewall-lined paddocks. As you follow the trail across hillside pastures, you’ll enjoy an expansive view of the East Branch of the Westport River, then skirt the 10-acre hayfield before returning along the farm lane to the barnyard.

Property Acquisition History
In November of 2006, The Trustees and the Town of Westport entered into a license agreement that grants the Trustees management authority and exclusive use of much of this historic landscape. The Trustees’ goal for the first year is to re-introduce the public to this spectacular property and its history and, through that process, build broader public support for the protection and restoration of the farm.