We always knew there would be a long haul to get Ebenezer Keyes Conservation Area up to speed as a signature family-friendly recreation area. We’re happy to report that we are making great progress with a new trail map available and new signage up around the property.
At our latest meeting on September 15, Emily Merlino and Jassy Bratko met with the neighbors and interested citizens to give an update on our most recent efforts. Those in attendance were dedicated, showing up even under threat of thunderstorms, to discuss progress and future plans of the area. We shared plans of near-future development of a parking area at the Princeton Street entrance as well as improvements to the trail down to Parker’s Pond. Also shared were the plans to block the ATV and dirt bike entrances to the property which have been active in recent weeks and are not welcome in the area. Neighbors shared concerns about unwanted motorized vehicle traffic and we encouraged them to reach out to Gardner Police when these issues occur. With consistent efforts, vigilance, and time we can help to curb this traffic and make a difference!
Another exciting update for Ebenezer Keyes Conservation Area include and our recent acceptance of our project by the Conway School of Landscape Design as one of their Spring 2022 projects for site design and planning. Students will come up with a compelling design for the conservation area and help determine how to best use our resources to better the land for passive recreation and ecological stability.
We will continue to actively engage neighbors and community members in this process to gain insight into what would be most enjoyed on the property. Keep up with our events page here on the website, on Facebook @keyesconservationarea, and sign up for our e-newsletter as we plan hikes and guided walk experiences like bird or plant ID walks in the future as well.
Work on the Ebenezer Keyes property is made possible through a grant from the Community Foundation of North Central Mass and an anonymous foundation serving community projects in the Gardner Area.