Day in the life: Trail steward at Newman Poses Preserve Lucy Dockter ’23

I have been walking in Aspetuck Land Trust's (ALT) Newman Poses Preserve for the past eight years. After spending almost every day there during quarantine, I decided to officially become a land steward there, taking on the responsibilities of basic trail maintenance.

Come with me on a walk through the park as I try to preserve and protect these beautiful woods.

When walking through the trails, I pick up any trash or debris I find. There are no trash bins at most of the ALT parks, so I bring home the garbage I find and sort it all there.

Reminder: it is illegal to litter, so pick up all of your trash.

I made a quick fix of the walkway, realigning the two sides.

To cross a stream or muddy areas, there are many bridges or elevated walkways throughout the preserve. Because bridges are on top of swampy areas, the boards will often sink into the ground over time. So I check each bridge to ensure they are on their posts and in line with one another.

The red path sign was pointing to the right when it should have been pointing straight, but a small rotation should make it accurate once again.

I also check all trail markers, making sure each faces the correct direction.

Due to some heavy winds the night before, there was a branch blocking the path.

Using a pair of clippers, I cut it in half, and threw both pieces far from the path.

Remember that we share these woods. On my most recent walk, I found coyote scat, which is a good reminder both of what we are protecting and also to be cautious.

Top left image: This invasive Japanese stiltgrass is difficult to remove when it is established. Top right image: This log was directly blocking the path, and I will have to return to either move it or to cut it into pieces. Bottom image: This tree was hanging directly over the path, posing a major threat, and it must be dealt with by proper tree specialists.

There are problems that I note but cannot fix on my own. ALT volunteers clear invasive plant species, and I can return with my father to move the log. But for dangerous hanging trees, I contact the head of the trail stewards.

But no matter what, I always take a moment to appreciate the views. Nature is beautiful, and it is our responsibility and privilege to preserve it.

Appreciate

Credits:

All photo's by Lucy Dockter '23