In April, as we celebrate Earth Day, our free monthly walk takes us to Osamequin Nature Preserve, a 42-acre conservation area along the western shore of Hundred Acre Cove in Barrington, RI. The property is owned by the Town and co-managed by the Barrington Land Conservation Trust, the Barrington Garden Club, and the Town of Barrington.
The parking area holds only 12 cars, and there is no other nearby parking available. Therefore, registration is limited. You may bring only one car per registration, but you may bring as many people as you can safely hold in your vehicle. Carpooling is encouraged!
REGISTER FOR THE SATURDAY WALK.
The terrain is gentle but wet in places. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy, waterproof footwear. You may wish to bring a walking stick or poles to assist you when crossing wet areas. The property is open to the pubic throughout the year.
Osamequin Nature Preserve is rich with history as part of the ancestral homelands of the Pokanoket people who occupied these lands prior to colonization. It is now home to a diversity of animals and native plant species that depend on this property for habitat and food.
The property’s extensive network of trails introduces visitors to fields, forests and salt marshes where you can see first-hand the effects of sea level rise as well as nature’s ability to regenerate after a fire.
After the flooding on Dec. 23, 2022, extreme high tides and gale force winds caused flooding throughout the preserve and lifted one bridge off its pilings, causing the closure of one section of trails. A fire which took place last fall burned a small area of the preserve, where regrowth is now visible.
The walk will be co-led by Kathryn Beauchamp, co-chair of the Barrington Garden Club’s Osamequin Management Team, and Victor Lerish, Chair of the Barrington Land Conservation Trust’s Stewardship Team.
The Barrington Land Conservation Trust relies on public support to acquire and maintain the conservation lands. You can contribute to our efforts by making a donation or volunteering your time. Thank you!