Have you ever wondered how trail workers build stone steps through remote forested hillsides or boardwalks that meander through swamps? Participants in SRA’s monthly trail work party will learn by doing, tackling new and exciting projects every month, ranging from backcountry trail construction to water and vegetation management. Whether you participate for one workday or for the entire season, you are sure to enjoy the camaraderie of the group while leaving a lasting, positive impact on the trails you love.

The work party will always meet between 10:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. on the second Saturday of every month through November. All tools and equipment provided, but please wear/bring close-toed shoes, long pants, seasonally appropriate clothing, and a re-usable water bottle. Families with teens and older children are welcome, but an adult must accompany and participate with children under 18 years of age. Location and project details are posted two weeks prior to the work party event. See below for more information.

Saturday, November 9
Location: To be announced
Project: To be announced

In the event of inclement weather, please check our Facebook page for a rescheduled date and time!

Did you know that SRA has over 30 preserves scattered throughout town? They range from wetlands to mixed hardwood forest; some are old apple orchards while old growth forests and glacial boulder fields dominate others. The one thing they all have in common is that SRA must inspect them annually to document change in condition and signs of trespass. This fall, we ask for your help. If you have ever driven the roads of Washington and wondered what lay beyond those yellow “Nature Preserve” property signs, now is your chance to find out.

We will start the day at 9:00 a.m. with coffee and light refreshments during an indoor training session, which will take place at 116 Christian Street in New Preston, CT. Learn how to use your smartphone as a GPS, what to look for as you walk the preserves, and how to mark and record your findings.  Bring a friend or we will match you with a partner, and then drive out to your assigned preserve to begin the outdoor monitoring. After walking the boundaries and recording any findings, meet back at the site of the indoor training to share your experiences and enjoy a complimentary lunch as a thank you for your time and efforts.

Terrain and hiking difficulty vary widely. Participants will have the option to register for easy, intermediate, or difficult routes. Easier routes consist of hikes totaling approximately 45 minutes or less through flatter terrain while more difficult routes demand hiking over 2 hours through steeper areas. Please note that in all of the preserves some degree of bushwhacking will be necessary. Participants should wear sturdy, waterproof boots, thick pants, as well as long-sleeved shirts. Plenty of water and a cell phone, if you have one, should be on hand.

An adult must accompany children under 18 years of age. Inclement weather may postpone the event to the following day, Sunday, November 17, 2019 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.  Rescheduling information will be posted on the Events page of our website and on our Facebook page.

Registration is required.