Devil’s Den To Host Trail Adopter Hike & Info Session  

Weston — With climate change and green living on everyone’s mind these days, The Nature Conservancy in Connecticut would like to offer a concrete step most local citizens can take to help protect the environment: adopt a nature trail at Devil’s Den Preserve. Interested adults, teens, and families are invited to join staff and other volunteers for a short hike and information session on Saturday, March 29, from 10 am to noon, through the woodlands of Devil’s Den.

It may not be the most glamorous way to make a difference, but by taking over responsibility for the upkeep of a small stretch of trail, citizens allow Conservancy staff to spend their time on larger projects like land protection, scientific study, and policy initiatives. And by taking steps to reduce erosion and ensure proper use, volunteers do their part to keep the lands and waters within the preserve clean and undisturbed.

Trail Adopters are asked to walk their assigned route at least once per season, checking for fallen trees, broken bridges, signs of dogs and bicycles, and the like. Volunteers also perform light maintenance such as re-painting blazes and trimming back undergrowth with equipment supplied by Devil’s Den. Currently all 21 miles of trails at Devil’s Den are maintained on a nearly 100 percent volunteer basis.

The hike and information session is meant to educate prospective volunteers as well as provide a chance for current volunteers to meet others and ask questions. Staff will provide training on all aspects of light trail maintenance, including pruning, grading, use of a handsaw, and proper trail use within a nature preserve.

Advance registration for this event is required; contact Lia Mastropolo at 203-226-4991 extension 203, or at Lmastropolo@ntc.org. Bring hiking shoes, water, and plenty of questions.