On Saturday, September 21, the Newtown Bridle Lands Association (NBLA) hosted a group trail ride to introduce members to the newly opened Farm Meadow Trail in western Newtown. Eleven riders participated, parking their trailers at the end of Saddle Ridge Road.

After a brief orientation, the riders entered the trail and headed south about 1.5 miles and exited at the end of Farm Meadow Road. The riders then returned to the starting point, but it was explained that one can walk down Farm Meadow Road and cross Poverty Hollow Road to Hopewell Road. Approximately half a mile down Hopewell Road is an entrance to Huntington Park on the right. Walkers and riders can then enjoy the miles of trails in the park. Walkers (but not dogs or horses) can also access the Aspetuck Trail from Hopewell Road.

The Farm Meadow Trail had been used for many years, but over time certain sections, especially the easement at the Saddle Ridge end, fell into disuse and became overgrown and very difficult to navigate. Additionally, fallen trees blocked the trail. Last winter, local horseback riders brought the potential for this trail to the attention of the NBLA, which started the process to restore it. This involved marking the trail, discussions with the town’s Land Use office, a presentation to and approval from the Conservation Commission, hiring a surveyor, and the actual re-routing of the trail when it was discovered that the original trail crossed private property.

The NBLA then cleared the trail and marked it with directional signs. The club also posted “Horse Friendly Trail” signs to identify it as safe for horses and to let other users know that they might see a horse and rider. The trail is open to all passive recreation, such as hiking, bird watching, and bike riding. Motorized vehicles are prohibited.

The NBLA works hard to preserve open space and maintain trails in Newtown. The Farm Meadow Trail is a good example of cooperation between the town and the NBLA, working together for the benefit of the community.

Tracy Van Buskirk is a 39 year resident of Newtown and president of Newtown Bridle Lands Association, at nblact.org, a nonprofit volunteer organization formed in 1978 to foster an interest in horseback riding as well as preserving, protecting and maintaining riding and hiking trails in the community. Horses have always been a part of her life. She owns a small bay quarter horse named Little Bear.