Land Trust Partners Host Grand Opening for Master Charles Grant Trail on September 17

The Hubbardston Open Space Committee recently convened to discuss various initiatives and funding related to local open space preservation, with a focus on upcoming projects and community engagement. One of the key highlights from the meeting was the ongoing effort to secure funding for maintenance and improvements to local trails, particularly in light of the new trail that has been established.

Committee members noted that open space donations have remained static at $38,904, with a recent donation of $4,001.25 from the Rider property. The Harveston Preservation Trust also reported a healthy balance of $20,360.34, indicating a commitment to preserving local natural resources. However, the committee acknowledged the need for a budget allocation to cover annual maintenance costs, such as purchasing materials for trail upkeep. A proposed budget of at least $2,000 was discussed to ensure that necessary resources are available for ongoing maintenance, especially after the winter months.

In addition to financial discussions, the committee highlighted the success of recent community walks, including a turnout of ten participants for a walk at Hobbitson Heights. Another walk is scheduled for September 5 at Hidden Meadow, which aims to engage more residents and promote awareness of local natural spaces. The committee is collaborating with the land trust to enhance outreach efforts, including notifications through local media.

The meeting also touched on land conservation efforts, with discussions about potential properties for conservation and the importance of maintaining communication with landowners interested in preserving their land. The committee is actively seeking opportunities to partner with local trusts and organizations to facilitate these efforts.

Looking ahead, the committee is preparing for the grand opening of the Master Charles Grant area on September 17, which will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a community walk. This event aims to celebrate the completion of the trail and encourage community involvement in local open space initiatives.

Overall, the meeting underscored the committee's commitment to enhancing and preserving Hubbardston's natural spaces while fostering community engagement and support for local conservation efforts. As the committee prepares for upcoming projects and events, residents are encouraged to participate and contribute to the ongoing dialogue about the future of open space in their community.