Volunteers recently made a day’s work of clearing trails, cutting fallen tree limbs, and pulling invasives from the home of one of Newtown’s most iconic views.

A team of roughly 50 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints members Saturday, September 20, spent time during their annual service day working outdoors at the Nettleton Preserve off of Castle Hill Road.

“We serve Christ by serving the community,” said church member Michael Petersen. The church is located on Saw Mill Road in Newtown.

He said the day was “quite a bit of work, but lots of hands make it much easier.” Noting the difference the volunteer effort made at the property, Mr Petersen feels guests entering the trails will have fewer obstacles and clearer paths. He said it is now “definitely easier for people passing through,” enabling them to better enjoy the trail.

“They were wonderful,” said Newtown Forest Association (NFA) Board of Trustees member Harvey Pessin of the volunteers. The location is an NFA preserve. Remarking that the property is a popular spot for people taking photos, Mr Pessin said, “It’s really one of the most beautiful scenes in Newtown.”

The property overlooks Main Street’s antique rooflines, church steeples, and the flagpole. Aside from the scenic view, the location offers trails and a sitting area for residents to enjoy.

The nonprofit, private land trust counts on community help, he said, noting, “We absolutely rely on volunteer efforts to supplement NFA members’ work to maintain its many properties.”

The Nettleton Preserve is 26 acres of land at 13 Castle Hill Road, donated to the NFA by Howard T. Nettleton and D. Labelle.

Learn more about the NFA properties at NewtownForestAssociation.org.