Mushroom Walk At Beals Preserve on October 19, 2025
The Southborough Open Land Foundation is sponsoring a 2-hour mushroom walk and talk on October 19, 2025, from 10 am – noon at SOLF’s Beals Preserve.
Jonathan Kranz, a mushroom enthusiast, former park ranger (Boston Harbor Islands), and current vice president of the Boston Mycological Club, will cover the basics of mushroom habits, identification, and ecology, and help prepare participants for safe, exciting forages of their own.
The walk is limited to 30 people, first-come, first-serve.
We will meet at 9:45 am at the Beals Preserve Main Steet Field parking area. The parking lot is off Route 30, just east of Northborough Rd and west of Chestnut Hill Rd. There is also parking at the intersection of Northborough Rd and Route 30 and at the Chestnut Hill Farm hiking parking lot on Chestnut Hill Rd. The GPS coordinates are
42°18’26.3″N 71°33’16.0″W.
You can read about Jonathan Kranz at
https://www.kranzcom.com/mushroom-walks-and-talks/
Visit the SOLF Booth on Heritage Day on October 13
SOLF trustees will be at our booth for Heritage Day on Monday, October 13, 2025, 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. Please stop by say hello and learn about the land that we have protected, where to visit, and ways that you can help.
Art on the Trails at Beals Preserve through Sep 14
The Southborough Open Land Foundation invites the general public to visit Beals Preserve through September 14 to view Art on the Trails installations. The Elaine and Phillip Beals Preserve is located on Main Street in Southborough, Massachusetts.
Download a map of the installations here.
To learn more about this event, visit https://artonthetrails.com/.
Art Juror Madeleine Lord said of the selection process, “The works selected for this year’s Art on the Trails will hopefully give visitors a startle, a smile, and a pause to enjoy their placement in the landscape. Some are made from wood, so their return to a woodland trail is like a makeover reveal. Other works are composed of materials with origins completely foreign to nature, yet they combine like exotic tourists.”
Debbie Costine, Trustee of the Southborough Open Land Foundation (SOLF), said, “ Southborough Open Land Foundation(SOLF) welcomes the ninth annual Art on the Trails. We hope that all those who visit the Beals Preserve will enjoy the interpretations of “Number 9”—this year’s theme. A walk in a natural setting often slows us down to see, listen, and appreciate with more awareness.”
Thirteen projects will be exhibited this year. Artists participating are Sarah Alexander, Wandering Mind Studio,(Sutton, MA), Paul Angiolillo (Weston, MA), Clark Barnhart (Worcester, MA), Lisa Barthelson (Rutland, MA), Shawndavid Berry (Newport, RI), Pam Bonaguide (Wayland, MA), Chelsea Bradway (Southborough, MA), Trish Dehls (Woodstock, CT), Denise Johnson and the students of Margaret Neary Elementary School (Southborough, MA), Rebecca Long (Stow, MA), Julie Nussbaum (Cambridge, MA), Charles Smith (Jefferson NH), and Lee Williams (Shaftbury, VT).
In addition to the installations, the program will include poetry written in response to the work and will be juried by poet Maura Snell. A prize-winning poem will be selected from submissions by award-winning poet Fred Gerhard.
In addition to the installations, the program will include poetry written in response to the work and will be juried by poet Maura Snell. A prize-winning poem will be selected from submissions by award-winning poet Fred Gerhard.
SOLF 2025 Annual Meeting Presentation
At the SOLF Annual Meeting last night, Trustee Debbie Costine gave a presentation highlighting recent projects and beautiful scenes across some of the properties we provide as open space to the public. SOLF mission is supported by your donations.
Recent Projects and Beautiful Scenes by Trustee Debbie Costine
Annual Meeting May 14 at 6:30 pm
The Southborough Open Land Foundation is having its Annual Meeting on May 14 at 6:30 pm at the Southborough Community House. All are welcome! Members (those who have donated in the past year) can vote for election of Trustees. There will be a short business meeting, followed by a slide show and a social hour.
SOLF’s Create in the Woods Challenge
Runs November through May
The Challenge:
• Go to a SOLF property that has trails.
• Go with no tools or materials.
• Explore and notice what is there: like sticks, rocks, colored leaves, fallen trees, acorns, etc.
• Choose a spot next to a trail and begin collecting things to build with or arrange.
• Create something using just your hands: like a shelter; a fun, little house; an arrangement of things. Hang things from branches, have fun with it.
Why?
Because it is so good for us! Being outdoors in a natural setting calms us. It is like a “reset” button to lower stress and anxiety. Children naturally “take to the woods!” Early exposure through family walks is a good way to establish this connection, especially if the walk is a “child-centered” one, focused not on exercise or conversation, but rather on being curious, tuning in to what is around us, standing in one place for a little while and just looking and listening. And then making something!
Rules:
Rule #1: bring no tools or materials.
Rule #2: create near but not on the trail.
Rule #3: take a picture and send it to info@solf.org, with subject “Create” and including the name of the property.
Rule #4: Do not touch anyone else’s creation.
Rule #5: Take as long as you want and even return to add more.
Please note that this program is for SOLF properties only. Regulations regarding building cairns or other structures may be different on other properties. View SOLF properties here.
Nature Walk at Beals Preserve on Sunday, October 20, 1 – 2:30 pm
Please join us for a Nature Walk at the Beals Preserve on Sunday, October 20 at 1 pm. The walk will be led by curious naturalist, artist, and SOLF trustee Debbie Costine.
Stroll in the meadows and woods, taking time to see what nature is doing at this time of the year. We will hear birds and insects, see the colorful leaves of different types of trees, look for mushrooms, moss and lichens, signs of animals and more.
Park in the SOLF lot located on the south side of Main Street between Northborough Road and Chestnut Hill Road. Follow the path down through the field go across the bridge and meet at the Kiosk. The walk will be about one and a half hours on fairly level terrain, and will be postponed in the event of rain.
All ages welcome. For question, email us at info@solf.org.
Visit the SOLF booth on Heritage Day, October 14
Monday, October 14, 9:00 am to 2:00 pm, SOLF trustees will be at our booth for Heritage Day. Please stop by say hello and learn about the land that we have protected and things that volunteers can do.
Important: Construction Project at Beals Preserve Sunday, Sep 29
Please note that a major project on Old Farm Lane at Beals Preserve will start on Sunday, September 29 and last through at least Tuesday, October 1. To address the spring and early summer wet area that starts about two hundred feet south of the kiosk, the trail will be improved. If you park at Main Street, please use the Meadow Trail to get access the rest of the property (after crossing the bridge and walking to the kiosk, turn right to go up the Meadow Trail), and use the Lone Wolf Trail from the Upper Meadow to access the rest of Old Farm Lane, and the Riding Ring and Hickory Trails.
Click on the image to view a larger image.
Art on the Trails 2024 at Beals Preserve
Southborough Open Land Foundation, in collaboration with Southborough Artist Catherine Weber, is pleased to present the 8th Annual Art On the Trails in the summer of 2024 on Beals Preserve. The art juror will be the amazing Marie Craig of Fountain Street Gallery. The call for art opens February 15. The installations will be on site from June 15 to September 15.
The 2024 Art on the Trails program is themed Legacy. It is dedicated to the memory of Whitney Beals, who passed away in September 2023. Whit was the President of the Southborough Open Land Foundation and dedicated his life to land conservation and forestry. As a child, the land across the street from his house, now Beals Preserve, was his playground. While he was well educated, he would attest that he was educated by and in the Forest. In his honor, we invite artists to consider the legacy that he and his family have left for the town of Southborough and propose art installations that support this theme. Visit the Art on the Trails website.
Recap of SOLF Annual Meeting on May 8, 2024
The Southborough Open Land Foundation’s held its Annual Meeting on Wednesday, May 8, 2024 at the Community House at 28 Main Street in Southborough. The evening started at 6 pm with light refreshments, followed by Trustee remarks by President Destin Heilman, a presentation on raptor rescue at 7 pm, the presentation of the 2024 Elaine Beals Conservation Award, and a short business meeting.
Destin Heilman talked about Whit Beal’s legacy and the work being done by Kevin and Mike Sanford at Beals Preserve. He also gave an overview of SOLF’s other activities this year, including work at other properties and programming.
Jess Zorge, the founder of Raptor Tales Rescue of Shrewsbury, gave a presentation on her work with raptor rehabilitation. Jess holds both state and federal wildlife rehabilitation and educational permits. Raptor Tales Rescue admits injured and orphaned wildlife from members of the public, as well as State and Federal agencies. RTR has treated over 300 birds of prey since the start of the rescue in 2020. As part of her presentation, she brought Blue, a non-releasable barred owl.
Trustee Debbie Costine presented the 2024 Elaine Beals Conservation Award to Kevin Sanford, a Southborough resident and friend of Whit’s who has transformed Beals Preserve this year – mowing the fields, clearing walls, thinning the woods by the pond, and so much more. Debbie presented the bluebird carved by Ben Keyes, with a plaque reading SOLF 2024 Elaine Beals Conservation Award. Debbie also recognized Mike Sanford, Kevin’s brother, for his work on the pump house and other work at Beals.
Birding walk on April 27 – Beals Preserve
On Saturday, April 27, SOLF hosted a birding walk at Beals Preserve. Eleven people attended the Earth Day Birding Walk at Beals Preserve. Unfortunately the presenter was unable to make it at the last minute, so trustees Sally Watters and Debbie Costine led a walk featuring some property history (like “fox hunts”) as well as some botany and using “Merlin” to identify all the audible birds in the vicinity.
Raptor Tales Rescue Program At SOLF Annual Meeting
We are excited to have a presentation by Jess Zorge, the founder of Raptor Tales Rescue of Shrewsbury. Raptor Tales Rescue (RTR) is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit that is run entirely on a volunteer basis. Jess works full time in the biomedical field. She is a Shrewsbury, MA native and military veteran with a soft spot for animals in need. Jess holds both state and federal wildlife rehabilitation and educational permits. She specializes in the rehabilitation of birds of prey. Raptor Tales Rescue admits injured and orphaned wildlife from members of the public, as well as State and Federal agencies. RTR has treated over 300 birds of prey since the start of the rescue in 2020. Jess volunteers speaking about raptors and wildlife rehabilitation to a variety of organizations. She has a wonderful 12-year-old daughter named Harper that helps her on many rescue missions (a young wildlife rehabilitator in the making!) As part of her presentation, she will be bring a Blue, a non-releasable barred owl. Please join us for this information and fascinating talk.
The Maple Syrup Making Presentation Now Online
Have maple trees? Want to learn how to tap trees and make maple syrup?
On October 25, 2023, Tony Willoughby, an experienced maple syrup maker, gave a presentation on how you can make your own. You can now view the presentation!
The talk was courtesy of the Southborough Open Land Foundation in partnership with the Southborough Library. But it will be held in Cordaville Hall (aka the Senior Center).
Obviously, to actually take advantage of the tips, you have to have a maple tree on your property (or permission from someone who does). But even those who don’t are welcome to learn more about what goes into making syrup.
Tony Willoughby’s talk covered how to identify different maple trees, when and how to tap, boiling techniques, and filtering & bottling.
SOLF 2023 Annual Appeal is underway
Our 2023 Annual Appeal is underway.
Forests, wetlands, lakes, and open fields are all understood to be important habitat for wildlife. But there’s more! Shrublands, those “overgrown fields,” and small shallow ponds also provide food and shelter for many species. The Southborough Open Land Foundation is working to create and maintain such diverse habitats of native species. This is an important component for a healthy environment.
- SOLF and the Open Space Preservation Commission honored SOLF Trustee Whitney Beals, a much loved and sorely missed advocate for healthy habitats, with the dedication of The Whit Beals Garden: Biodiversity through Pollination at Beals Preserve.
- We have launched “SOLF presents: Nature in Southborough,” a monthly column for MySouthborough and our website.
- Cassie Melo completed her Eagle Scout Project of building and installing two cedar benches at Beals Preserve.
- Middlesex Savings Bank funded two granite benches, also placed in Beals Preserve.
- SOLF is prioritizing more trails and maintenance at our properties.
- Programs such as our recent talk on how maple syrup is made will continue.
- SOLF will keep building a team of volunteers for trail work.
Your support is essential to helping us keep up this positive momentum. Please consider a tax-deductible contribution to support our efforts that help keep Southborough such an attractive and unique community.
Please go to our support page to make a donation by mail or via Paypal. Thank you!
Garden Talk and Plant Sale and Honoring Whitney Beals – September 23
On September 23, from 10 am – 12 noon, there will be a Garden Talk and Plant Sale at the Native Pollination Preservation Garden at Beals Preserve. Parking is available at the small SOLF parking area off Main Street and across the street at the intersection of Northborough Road and Main Street. Additional parking is available at the Trustees of the Reservations hiking trails lot (not the farm store lot) on Chestnut Hill Road.
The Whit Beals Garden – Biodiversity Through Pollination. Please join us at 11:00 am as we honor Whitney Beals’ dedication and life passion for open space. Freddie Gillespie Chair of the Southborough Open Space Preservation Commission and Sally Watters, Southborough Open Land Foundation Trustee, will announce the new name of the garden to honor Whit who devoted much effort in recent years to help make this garden become a reality.
Read about the history of the garden here. The garden is an OSPC project in partnership with SOLF.
Maple Syrup Making – Rescheduled to October 25
Have maple trees? An experienced maple syrup maker will explain how you can make your own.
The talk is courtesy of the Southborough Open Land Foundation in partnership with the Southborough Library. But it will be held in Cordaville Hall (aka the Senior Center).
The presentation is scheduled for Wednesday, October 25 from 7:00 – 8:30 pm. No registration required.
Obviously, to actually take advantage of the tips, you’d have to have a maple tree on your property (or permission from someone who does). But even those who don’t are welcome to come learn more about what goes into making syrup.
Tony Willoughby’s talk will cover:
- How to identify different maple trees
- When and how to tap
- Boiling techniques
- Filtering & bottling
Willoughby has 15 years experience as an amateur maple syrup maker.
Beals Preserve Preservation Garden Tour on June 24
On June 24, Freddie Gillespie, Chair of Southborough’s Open Space Preservation Commission (OSPC), gave a tour and talk about the Beals Preserve Pollination Preservation Garden. The tour and talk covered the challenges and benefits of pollination preservation activities in old meadows. The morning’s drizzle did not keep a nice crowd from coming to hear Freddie and to buy plants.
Local vendors sold plants exclusively from Dr. Gegear’s list for at-risk pollinators.
The garden is a partnership project of the OSPC and the Southborough Open Land
Foundation and was established in 2022.
Art on the Trails 2023 – Through September 17
Press release from Southborough Artist Catherine Weber:
The Southborough Open Land Foundation invites the general public to visit Beals Preserve for the 7th annual Art on the Trails.. This year’s theme is Transformation. The exhibition will take place again this year at the Elaine and Philip Beals Preserve in Southborough, Massachusetts.
A juried exhibition of sculptural installations will be on view beginning June 10, and closing on September 17. The exhibition is juried by Sculptor Sarah Alexander, Creative Director, Hopkinton Center for the Arts.
Sixteen projects will be exhibited from 21 artists. Artists participating are: Lisa Barthelson (Rutland, MA), Ted Castro (Acton, MA) , Marie Despres (Grafton, MA), Holly Ewald (Providence, Rhode Island), Maxwell Fertik (Providence, Rhode Island), Gints Grinbergs (Dedham, MA), Matthew Haberstron (Medford, MA), Meagan Hepp (Brighton, MA), Linda Hoffman (Harvard, MA), Alexandra Ionesco (Providence, Rhode Island), Denise Johnson and the students of Margaret Neary Elementary School (Southborough, MA), Jon Laustsen (Providence, Rhode Island), August Lehrecke (Providence, Rhode Island), Hope Lesson (Providence, Rhode Island), Madeleine Lord (Dudley, MA), Gena Mavuli (Boston, MA), Margot McMahon (Oak Park, Illinois), Matthew P. Muller (Providence, Rhode Island), Hildreth Potts (Garrison, NY), Bridie Wolejko (Lunenburg, MA), and Melanie Zibit (Shirley, MA).
Art Juror Sarah Alexander said of the selection process, “It is always a challenge to select from many excellent submissions. I am confident that the work, while diverse in material and subject, will present a cohesive show along the trails of the Preserve. I look forward to seeing it installed!”
A representative of Southborough Open Land Foundation (SOLF) said, “The Southborough Open Land Foundation is pleased that the Elaine and Philip Beals Preserve serves as the beautiful backdrop for the 7th Annual Art on the Trails. It is fascinating to see the intersection of art and nature as various aspects of the preserve serve as inspiration for the artists’ creations.”
In addition to the installations, the program will include poetry written in response to the work and will be juried by poet Maura Snell. A prize winning poem will be selected from submissions by Scituate poet Joanne DeSimone Reynolds .
Learn more about this event at https://artonthetrails.com.
Our Partners
We are honored to have the generous support from the following organizations:
Southborough Open Land Foundation
The Southborough Open Land Foundation (SOLF) is a private land trust founded in 1988. The all-volunteer organization with over 300 local members and a Board of Trustees, preserves and protects open space in Southborough, Massachusetts. SOLF manages 191 acres of open space as well as sponsoring a variety of nature-based recreational and educational activities in cooperation with the Southborough Gardeners, Arts Center at Southborough, Southborough Extended Day, Boy and Girl Scouts, Southborough Recreation, and other organizations including walks, plant lectures, trail maintenance, field trips for school children, snowshoe clinics, art shows, and Earth Day clean-ups. SOLF also collaborates with the Town of Southborough, other land trusts, and state and federal agencies to conserve open space and promote biodiversity.
Southborough Community Fund
The Southborough Community Fund (SCF) promotes a spirit of philanthropic giving to fund the critical needs and the wonderful wants of Southborough citizens. Established in 2014 by local residents as a fund of the Foundation for MetroWest, the SCF is a source of financial support, as well as a convening mechanism to foster innovation and collaboration across the townspeople and the organizations designed to benefit them. By providing opportunities in the areas of Family Support, Arts, Culture, and Environment, the Fund enables residents to make an immediate impact in their community. Visit their website at southboroughcommunityfund.org.
Additional funding comes from Ginny Martins & Associates and Fay School.
Dates:
February 3: Theme and art Juror announced
February 15: Call for art opens
April 15, midnight: Call for art closes (no exceptions)
April 30: Art selections announced
June 10: Artists install work – Public Invited to attend
June 12: Submissions for poetry open
July 31, midnight: Deadline for poetry submissions
August 25: Poets notified
September 17 (3–5 pm): Closing Poetry Reading and Reception. Poets read work along the trail in response to art installations.
Rotary Club Day at Pollinator Garden on May 20
On Saturday, May 20, 2023, 12,000 Rotarians from 450 clubs across five states will be doing a wide variety of local service projects in their communities. The Southborough Rotary Club will be working with Freddie Gillespie, Open Space Preservation Commission Chair and Pollinator Preservation Garden expert, at the Pollinator Preservation Garden at Beals Preserve from 9:00 – 11:00 am.
SOLF Annual Meeting on Wednesday, May 10
Please join us for the Southborough Open Land Foundation’s Annual Meeting on Wednesday, May 10 at the Community House at 28 Main Street in Southborough. The evening starts at 6 pm with light refreshments, followed at 7 pm with Trustee introductions and remarks, the presentation of the 2023 Elaine Beals Conservation Award to Al Bezanson, and a program by Trustee Debbie Costine entitled, “A Virtual Walk in the Woods.”
Artist and “curious naturalist,” Trustee Deborah Costine is the past Vice-President of Southborough Open Land Foundation, a long-time member of Sudbury Valley Trustees SVT, and a National award-winning puppeteer. Slow, solitary walks in the woods pausing often to look carefully and taking pictures is what grounds her. In this presentation, previously hosted by SVT in 2021, Debbie will take her audience along with her, settling into the rhythm of the forest and looking at some of her favorite photos.
Earth Day Clean-up April 22, 2023
SOLF trustees and volunteers participated in this year’s Earth Day clean-up, starting at the trailhead to Templeman Woods on Route 85, and heading south past Richards Road, stopping at our other property at Lambert Corners.
Program on Eastern Coyote/Coywolf on April 27
On April 27, 2023 at 7 pm at the Southborough Library, SOLF, in conjunction with Earth Day, offered a program by Dr. Jon Way on The Eastern Coyote/Coywolf – How Coyotes behave and live so successfully near people.
Topics included:
- The typical home range and territory size of the Eastern Coyote.
- Its movement and activity patterns.
- Its sociality, denning behavior, and hybridization.
- Many photos and some video clips.
The presentation ran about one hour and a half, including questions and book sales. Our thanks to the Southborough Library for hosting the event.
Jonathan (Jon) Way has a B.S. (UMass Amherst), M.S. (UConn Storrs), and doctorate (Boston College) related to the study of eastern coyotes/coywolves.
Daisy Scouts Perform Trail Work at Clark Grove
Recently Daisy Scout Troop #64042 did some trail work at SOLF’s little “Clark Grove” property on Highland St. They even cleaned our sign! We love that we’ve been able to create a small trail for a neighborhood to enjoy. Thank you troop #64042 and leader Phaea Crede !
History Walk at Beals Preserve on Sunday, October 16 at 10 am
Join Whitney Beals and the Southborough Open Land Foundation (SOLF) for a history walk at the Elaine and Philip Beals Preserve on Sunday, October 16 at 10 am. President Whitney Beals will walk and talk about the history of the property. Meet at the kiosk on the south side of the aqueduct. Sign up at the SOLF booth at Heritage Day or send email to info@solf.org to let SOLF know that you are planning to attend. Note there is now a parking lot on Route 30 Main Street. To get directions, more parking information, and a map for Beals Preserve, go to on https://solf.org/beals-preserve/.
SOLF Completes Linda Hubley Scholarship Fund Challenge
The Southborough Scholarship Committee created a new scholarship to honor the memory of Linda Hubley, a woman who championed both state and local environmental causes. During her career, Linda worked for the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Management, Division at both Hopkinton State Park and Walden Pond State Reservation in Concord. Later she worked with the USDA in Worcester on the Asian Longhorned Beetle Eradication, Plant Protection and Quarantine program and retired in November of 2019 as a supervisor. Locally she helped form SWAMP, a group that studied the Sudbury River and which would be absorbed by the SUASCO Watershed Council. She was also involved locally as a volunteer in the schools and served as an election worker. Somehow Linda found time to start the first on-line newspaper for Southborough. The state legislature honored her extraordinary contributions with an Unsung Hero award. SOLF chose her as the recipient of the Elaine Beals Conservation Award in 2010.
Recognizing how appropriate it is to honor Linda’s memory with a scholarship that will help keep her legacy alive by helping a student who pursues environmental education, the SOLF Board issued a challenge to match up to $1000 in donations to the fund. We are thrilled to say that our challenge was met and exceeded. We raised $1600 in donations. That means that with SOLF’s $1000 portion of the challenge we are able to present the Southborough Scholarship Committee with $2600 toward the Linda Hubley Scholarship Fund.
At our Annual Meeting on May 18, SOLF VP Debbie Costine presented Skip Hubley, Linda’s husband, with a $1000 check for the Linda Hubley Memorial Scholarship. Looking on were two members of the Southborough Scholarship Committee, Kathleen Kuklewicz and Alexandra Mills.
You can read about the scholarship and Linda at https://www.mysouthborough.com/2022/03/04/town-announces-linda-hubley-memorial-scholarship/.
SOLF Annual Meeting on Wednesday, May 18
Mark your calendars for the Southborough Open Land Foundation’s Annual Meeting on Wednesday, May 18 at the Community House in Southborough, with a reception and light refreshments at 6 pm, followed by a presentation at 7 pm by Peter Alden — Concord native, ornithologist, naturalist, author — on changes over time to Concord’s bird and mammal inhabitants. Read more about Peter here. Meet the SOLF Trustees and help congratulate Jim Gorss, the winner of the Elaine Beals Conservation Award. See the flyer here.
Earth Day Walk at Beals Preserve on April 22
As part of the town-wide Planet Palooza Earth Celebration, SOLF sponsored “A Walk Back in Time” on April 22 at 11am at Beals Preserve – a review of the history of the Beals Preserve use since 1900. Participants met at the Pollinator Preservation Garden in the Main Street Field at Beals Preserve for a brief overview of the new pollinator garden before heading out for the history & nature walk. Kathryn Korostoff and Freddie Gillespie gave the garden presentation, and Whitney Beals gave a engrossing talk about the agricultural use and acquisition of the fields that became Beals Preserve.
Art on the Trails 2022: June 13 to September 11
The Southborough Open Land Foundation, in collaboration with Southborough Artist Catherine Weber, is pleased to present the 2022 Art On the Trails, with the theme: EXPOSURE. The exhibition will be installed from June 13 to September 11, 2022 at Beals Preserve. With the generous support again this year from Southborough Community Fund and the Southborough Cultural Arts Council, all accepted artists will again receive $100 stipends. Link to a map of the installations.
Art on the Trails 2021: Mending
The Southborough Open Land Foundation, in collaboration with Southborough Artist Catherine Weber, is pleased to present Art On the Trails 2021: Mending from June 13 to September 26, 2021 at the Elaine and Philip Beals Preserve, Southborough, Massachusetts. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, however, there will be no opening reception this year. Instead, there will be live streaming of the installation process on June 12 & June 13. For more information on scheduled events, click here 2021 Art on the Trails: Mending.
Proposed Southborough Town Lighting By-Law
SOLF supports the new Lighting By-Law to be voted on at SOUTHBOROUGH TOWN MEETING. There are two changes to the existing by By Law:
1. To adjust the color “temperature” of any new LED lighting in town to limit light pollution and protect human health and the environment.
2. To modernize the way that lighting plans can be put together to offer more flexibility and customization.
You can read a list of Frequently Asked Questions About the Proposed By Law Here
Art on the Trails 2020: Rising Up. Beals Preserve
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there will be no opening reception this year. Instead, there will be live streaming of the installation process on June 17 & June 8.
In Search of Mongolian Wolverines: Rebecca Watters, January 9, 2020
The Southborough Open Land Foundation (SOLF) invites you to a presentation by Rebecca Watters about a 350 mile cross country ski trek through the Altai Mountains of Mongolia in search of evidence of wolverines and other wildlife. Rebecca will also talk about wolverine/wildlife research in the United States. Rebecca is a graduate of Algonquin Regional High School, St. Lawrence University, and Yale University. She is Executive Director of the Wolverine Foundation and works with Round River Conservation Studies directing a student study abroad program in Mongolia where she works closely with the National Parks administration.
7:00 PM, Thursday, January 9, 2020
Southborough Library, 25 Main Street, Southborough, MA
The program is free and open to all. No registration is required.
2019 Annual Meeting, May 4, 2019
SOLF held its annual meeting Saturday May 4, at the historic 1812 Deacon Webster Johnston House, 49 Lynbrook Road, Southborough, MA, home of the L’Abri Fellowship, donors to SOLF of a 5.5 acre parcel of land across from their historic home. The meeting began with a welcome by Ben Keyes of L’Abri Fellowship followed by walk to the little brook on our newly acquired land and an unveiling of the sign identifying the new land. The meeting continued with the presentation of SOLF’s Annual Elaine Beals Conservation Award to Beth Rosenblum, recently retired Conservation Agent for the Town of Southborough. SOLF President Whit Beals presented Beth with a carving of a Barn Swallow done by Southborough artist Ben Keyes.
The meeting continued with a tour of the historic house, a summary of SOLF’s 30 years of land protection and a wine and cheese social hour.
Our Endangered Trees: Asian Longhorned Beetle, Spotted Lanternfly, and Emerald Ash Borer
On Thursday April 4, 2019, the Southborough Open Land Foundation sponsor4d a presentation by Joshua Bruckner on Invasive Insects Threatening Massachusetts Trees. The talk focused on the Asian Longhorned Beetle, the Spotted Lanternfly, and the Emerald Ash Borer, The Asian Longhorned Beetle is responsible for the destruction of over 36,000 trees in Worcester over the last 10 years and poses a continuing threat to trees of our area. The Spotted Lanternfly, a sap-feeding invasive insect from Asia, poses a threat to 70 different plants and crops, including apples, grapes, and hops.
The Emerald Ash Borer is an emerging threat to the ash trees of New England. The presentation covered what is being done to combat these invasives, how to identify the insects and their damage, and how to report any sightings.
Joshua Bruckner is the Asian Longhorned Beetle outreach coordinator at the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources. He works to spread information and awareness about the Asian Longhorned Beetle and other invasive insects in Massachusetts. He has a masters and bachelor’s degree in environmental science from Clark University.
Southborough Community Fund Grant for Art on the Trails 2020
Fund Award Ceremony, November 14, 2019
Carl Guyer Receives 2018 Elaine Beals Award
Carl Guyer, at a December 12, 2018 SOLF meeting, receives the annual Elaine Beals award from trustee Sally Watters for his leadership in environmental conservation and awareness. Elaine Beals was among the founding members of the Southborough Open Land Foundation. She served on the Board of Trustees of SOLF for many years. She was dedicated to the preservation of the environment and open space, reinforcing her conservation ethic as a member of the Town of Southborough’s Open Space Preservation Commission. In her honor, SOLF presents the Elaine Beals Conservation Award each year to a local resident who has shown outstanding leadership in environmental conservation.
September 15, 2018, Birds of Prey with Tom Ricardi
The Southborough Open Land Foundation (SOLF) presented Tom Ricardi, founder and operator of the Massachusetts Birds of Prey Rehabilitation Facility in Conway, MA, with a program on Birds of Prey at the Southborough Library, September 15, 2018, at 2:00 PM. A large number of children and adults were in attendance to see the variety of birds Tom presented.
You can watch a video of Tom’s presentation here.
May 12, 2018, Bird Walk at Breakneck Hill Conservation Land
On a damp and cool Saturday morning, Jeff Collins, Director of Mass Audubon’s Ecological Management Department led a group of 16 participants on a “Bird-a-thon” day bird walk at the Breakneck Hill Conservation Land, on Breakneck Hill Road, Southborough. Altogether, we saw 28 species including a number of Bobolinks, a Yellow Warbler, Indigo Bunting, and an Eastern Bluebird.
Annual Meeting, May 9, 2018
In addition SOLF announced the annual Elaine Beals Conservation Award to be given to Carl Guyer for his efforts to protect the environment by making Southborough a Green Community and encouraging recycling. SOLF also recognized two Algonquin High School students, Shannon Provencal and Kathryn Gowdy, for their outstanding efforts in organizing Hike Southborough Day in September 2017.
May 6, 2018, Our First Summer Stroll
October 28, 2017, Massachusetts Birds of Prey with Tom Ricardi
The Southborough Open Land Foundation (SOLF) presented Tom Ricardi, founder and operator of the Massachusetts Birds of Prey Rehabilitation Facility in Conway, MA, to a large and enthusiastic audience at the at the Southborough Library, October 28, at 2:00 PM. Tom Ricardi, a retired Fish and Game Warden with more than 30 years experience, is a licensed game rehabilitator and breeder. He brough with him a variety of live birds of prey including a Golden Eagle, a Barred Owl, a Harris Hawk, a Turkey Vulture and several other birds under his care. The picture below shows a Harris Hawk that suffered an injury and is unable to fly or live in the wild. The photo is courtesy of Sally Watters.
Watch a video of the presentation here. Our thanks to Southborough Access Media for recording this program and posting it to YouTube.
Art on the Trails Thank You Catherine Kundrath Weber
The Southborough Open Land Foundation extends a tremendous THANK YOU to Catherine Kundrath Weber for pulling off a highly successful “Art on the Trails” project. From original concept, to all the many threads that must be coordinated, to perseverance throughout the entire process to even a celebration walk and poetry reading at the end, she maintained enthusiasm and a “can do” attitude. Because of this, many residents of our town discovered the Beals Preserve for the first time and found a safe place of natural solace to revisit and cherish. Catherine, you are a champion of Art and Nature.
September 23, 2017, Wildlife Tracking with Paul Wanta at Beals Preserve
The Southborough Open Land Foundation (SOLF) presented naturalist, tracker and teacher of wilderness skills Paul Wanta in an exploration of the wildlife and plants that inhabit Beals Preserve, Southborough, MA. Paul Wanta has taught wilderness and tracking skills to young people for over 30 years. He lead us through the trails of Beals Preserve looking for the tracks and signs of the wildlife present in the Preserve.
June 25: Conservation Options & Planning: A Workshop for Landowners
The Southborough Open Land Foundation, with support from the Southborough Open Space Preservation Commission and Sudbury Valley Trustees, invites you to a complimentary workshop to explore options for conserving family land, Sunday, June 25, 2017, 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM, Southborough Community House, 28 Main Street, Southborough, MA 01772. Presentations by Steve Sloan, Owner of Cambridge Consulting, a firm that helps protect natural areas, farmland, and historic sites across Massachusetts; Frederica Gillespie, Southborough Open Space Preservation Commission; and a panel of Southborough landowners who have successfully conserved their properties.
Please direct questions/RSVPs to Chelsea Polevy by June 21. Email: cpolevy@svtweb.org or call (978) 443-5588 ext.138.
For a flyer on the event, click here.
This workshop is made possible by a generous grant from the Foundation for Metrowest, Southborough Community Fund.
Art on the Trails, Beals Preserve through September 24, 2017
2017 Annual Meeting: Art on the Trails, Elaine Beals Awards, e-Awakening and the Bay Circuit Trail
The 2017 Annual Meeting of the Southborough Open Land Foundation (video), held May 17, 2017 was highlighted by the presentation of both the 2016 and 2017 Elaine Beals Conservation Award and an illustrated discussion on the Bay Circuit Trail by Marilyn and Dan Brielmann of e-Awakening. The meeting opened with a brief overview by Catherine Weber on the upcoming Art on the Trails Exhibition. Following this, the 2016 Elaine Beals Award was presented to Christa Brady and the Friends of the Burnett-Garfield House in recognition of their efforts to preserve the property at 84 Main Street. The group helped educate the community about the historical significance of the property and the importance of placing a historic preservation restriction on the property. SOLF also took the opportunity to present special awards recognizing two Algonquin High School students, Jen Fox and Bridget Brady, for their leadership in leading the protest which awakened the town to the impending demolition of the house at 84 Main Street.
Alan French, founder and former chairman of the Bay Circuit Alliance, was presented with the 2017 Elaine Beals Award. Alan has worked tirelessly for over thirty years to reinvigorate the Bay Circuit Trail concept and bring it to completion. An idea first conceived in 1929 by a man named Benton MacKaye, the trail was to be a greenway, in a wide arc of open space roughly in the vicinity of what is now route 128. It would provide a natural respite for the growing population. Now, the trail is in a much larger arc of over 230 miles of trail with Newburyport at one end and Duxbury at the other. Southborough is at its westernmost point. In the process, many acres of land have been protected and many many people have enjoyed these beautiful trails close to home.
Following the presentation of the awards, the husband and wife team of e-Awakening, Marilyn and Dan Brielmann, gave an illustrated discussion of walks along portions of the Bay Circuit Trail, accompanied by original songs of Dan Brielman. Marilyn and Dan are environmental activists and educators whose mission is to tell green stories and build a sustainable environment through books, music and video. You can watch a video of their presentation here (their presentation starts at about 20 minutes). More information, including videos of the Bay Circuit Trail, books, and Dan’s recordings, are available on their website e-Awakening.
2017 Elaine Beals Award Presented to Alan French
May 13, 2017 Birdwalk at Breakneck Hill Conservation Land
On a gray and cold Saturday morning, the Southborough Open Land Foundation participated in Mass Audubon’s annual “Bird-a-thon” with a bird walk led by Jeff Collins, Director of Mass Audubon’s Ecological Management Department. The 18 participants in the walk saw a large variety of New England birds including
Red-tailed Hawk, American Crow, Brown-headed Cowbird, American Robin, House Sparrow, Black-capped Chickadee, Red-winged Blackbird, Gray Catbird, Mourning Dove, Cedar Waxwing, Bobolink, Yellow Warbler, Double-crested Cormorant, Song Sparrow, European Starling, Northern Flicker, Chipping Sparrow, Savannah Sparrow, Eastern Bluebird, Baltimore Oriole, American Goldfinch, Downy Woodpecker, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Tufted Titmouse, an elusive Red-eyed Vireo that we could hear, but not see, White-breasted Nuthatch, Tree Swallow, and Common Grackles. The confirmed sighting of a Savanah Sparrow and a Bobolink by everyone on the walk was exciting because these are two species that the Stewardship Committee and Conservation Commission have been managing the grasslands to provide breeding grounds. The walk was funded in part by a grant from the Southborough Community Fund (SCF), Foundation for Metrowest.
May 17, 2017, 7:00 PM, Join Us at Our Annual Meeting, Community House, 28 Main Street, Southborough
The Southborough Open Land Foundation will hold its annual meeting on Wednesday, May 17, 2017 at the Southborough Community House, 28 Main Street, Southborough at 7:00 PM.
Join us at the meeting where Dan & Marilyn Brielmann of e-Awakening along with Alan French will be your guides taking you along the Bay Circuit Trail, a 200 mile natural wonder that arcs around the City of Boston from Newburyport, through Southborough and other Metrowest communities, to Kingston, MA. In addition, Alan French will be presented the Elaine Beals Conservation Award, presented annually by SOLF to a person who has worked to help protect the environment in Southborough and the region. Alan French is an Andover resident and was the founder, Chairman, and Executive Director of the Bay Circuit Alliance, Inc. He will talk about the more than 25 years he was involved with this project and making it a reality. The Elaine Beals Conservation Award was created in 2005 to honor Elaine Beals for her many contributions to conservation and the protection of the environment in Southborough and the region.
The meeting is free and open to the public, you need not be a member of SOLF to attend. Click here for a flyer on the event.
June 7 to July 7, 2017, Call for Poetry as part of Art on the Trails: Finding Solace in the Woods at Beals Preserve
Call for Poetry as part of Art on the Trails: Finding Solace in the Woods at Beals Preserve. Poets are encouraged to submit poetry written in response to the work. Deadline for submissions is July 7. Poetry will be juried by Tishman Review poetry editor, poet, and Westborough resident Maura Snell and Hopkinton poet Cynthia Franca. All accepted poetry will be included in a chapbook along with the art installations which inspired them. Submission guidelines and more information about Art on the Trails: Finding Solace in the Woods can be found at artonthetrails.com or by contacting Catherine Weber at cweber@artonthetrails.com or 508-523-3605.
SOLF Receives Southborough Community Fund Grant
SOLF is excited to announce that we are the recipients of a grant from the Southborough Community Fund, a fund of the Foundation for Metrowest. The grant will enable SOLF to present a workshop to inform landowners of the financial and environment advantages of placing a conservation restriction on their property and/or donating the property to a land trust. The funds will also enable SOLF to present several nature related programs open to the public. Please visit the Southborough Community Fund (SCF), Foundation for Metrowest website to see the good work it is doing in town. Programs funded by this grant will be listed on our Upcoming Events page.
Nick Hills Eagle Scout Project at Beals Preserve
The Southborough Open Land Foundation congratulates Nick Hills of Southborough Boy Scout Troop 1 for achieving his Eagle Scout Rank on June 4, 2016. Nick’s Eagle Scout Project was a trail renovation at Beals Preserve. There was a serious erosion problem on the Old Farm Lane Trail at the Red Gate Lane entrance area. During heavy rain storms, the water would overflow the storm drains at the cul de sac and pour down the trail, causing the trail to erode badly. When Nick came to us looking for a project, we met with him to explain the problem and showed him the area of concern. He immediately demonstrated a grasp of the situation, asked pertinent questions, made several suggestions, and then forged ahead with the project. Not only did he and members of the troop build the water breaks, but they also improved the small stone wall at the entrance area, enhancing the visual appearance. Nick showed understanding of the problem with which he was presented, initiative in trying to help solve it, and leadership in executing the project. SOLF is grateful for Nick’s work and congratulates him on achieving the rank of Eagle Scout.
Citizen Science: The SOLF Wildlife Survey at Beals Preserve, May 26, 2016, 7:00 PM, Southborough Library
Join SOLF Trustee and Wildlife Survey Coordinator Lawrence Spezzano for a discussion of the project. Click here for more details on the program. Thursday, May 26, 2016, Southborough Library, 7:00 PM.
Birdwalk at Beals Preserve, May 15, 2016
Jeff Collins from Mass Audubon led a birdwalk at Beals Preserve on a beautiful May morning, May 14, 2016. A large number of species, including a Red-winged Blackbird, European Starling, Barn Swallow, Canada Goose and Goslings, Mallard Duck, Yellow Warbler, Warbling Vireo, American Goldfinch, Tree Swallow, Barn Swallow, Song Sparrow, Gray Catbird, Northern Rough-winged Swallow, Eastern Kingbird, Common Grackle, Great Blue Heron, Common Yellowthroat, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Baltimore Oriole, Eastern Bluebird, Green Heron, Brown-headed Cowbird, Chipping Sparrow, Ovenbird, Pine Warbler, Tufted Titmouse, American Robin, Northern Mockingbird, and Northern Flicker, were either heard or seen by members of the walk . Some photos of participants, and Beals Preserve taken by Doris Cahill are shown below.
May 11, 2016, Annual Meeting: Wildlife Photographer Peter Christoph
The Southborough Open Land Foundation held its annual meeting on Wednesday, May 11, 2016, at the Southborough Community House, 28 Main Street, Southborough. The meeting featured wildlife photographer Peter Christoph, a full-time wildlife photographer, speaker, and author from Lancaster, MA, speaking on Birds, The Epic Adventures of a Massachusetts Bird Photographer. His program was a narrated slide show of his favorite bird photographs, all taken in Massachusetts. Peter also shared stories of his photographic adventures and the techniques he uses to capture his images as well as his favorite places to take photos of birds in their natural habitat.
Children’s Program on Beavers and Their Habitat, Saturday April 2, 2016, Southborough Library, 2:00 PM
On Saturday, April 2, 2016, Lisa Carlin of Mass Audubon’s Broad Meadow Brook Conservation Center and Wildlife Sanctuary will present a children’s program on beavers and their habitat. Children will “create” their own beaver dam and/or lodge with playdough and pretzels. The presentation is at the Southborough Library, 25 Main Street, Southborough, 2:00 PM. The program is free, but registration is required. Call the Library at (508) 485-5031 to register. The program is appropriate for children ages 5 to 9.
See a flyer for the program here.
This program is funded by a grant from the Southborough Community Fund (SCF), Foundation for Metrowest.
All About Beavers, February 23, 2016
On Tuesday, February 23, 2016, Mike Callahan of Beaver Solutions, LLC, Southampton, MA , discussed solutions open to us when beavers begin to affect our property. He discussed the importance of beavers in creating and maintaining wetlands. He indicated that beaver ponds influence water quality by storing water and slowly releasing it. This process allows suspended particles to settle and detoxify many runoff toxins. Despite these benefits, however, there are often conflicts when beaver dams threaten homes or septic systems. Mike presented potential solutions to these conflicts including flow control devices to control flooding from beaver dams and trapping where necessary. You can watch the presentation here.
This program was funded by a grant to SOLF from the Southborough Community Fund (SCF), Foundation for Metrowest.
SOLF Receives Award From The Southborough Community Fund
Carol Gay Leaves Board After 25 Years of Service
At its 2014 on May 27th annual meeting, SOLF thanked Carol Gay as she stepped down as a trustee of the Southborough Open Land Foundation after serving on the Board of Trustees for 25 years. During that time she served as the vice-president and the treasurer of SOLF. She also helped with the fundraising in 2005 to help pay for the conservation restriction that the town purchased on Chestnut Hill Farm in 2006. Carol helped organize the dedication celebration of Beals Preserve in 2008 and SOLF’s 25th Anniversary celebration in 2013. She coordinated the Club Day events with Eastern Mountain Sports. She kept many records concerning SOLF and has always been ready to help the organization whether at SOLF’s Heritage Day booth, at Riverfest, or other events. Carol and her husband George demonstrated their dedication to the preservation of open space by placing a conservation restriction on 61 acres of their own property in 1991. SOLF recognized Carol’s dedication to conservation and open space by presenting her with the Elaine Beals Award in 2009. The Board of Trustees will miss Carol’s talents and hard work.
Annual Meeting, May 27, 2015, 7:00PM, Southborough Community House
SOLF held its annual meeting on May 27, 2015, at 7:00PM at the Southborough Community House, 28 Main Street, Southborough. The speaker was Alexander Dunn from Mass Audubon and Trustees of Reservations discussing “Turkeys in Suburbia and Other Changes in Massachusetts Bird Life.”
In addition, the annual Elaine Beals Conservation Award was presented to Representative Carolyn Dykema for her leadership in environmental protection. This award is presented annually by SOLF to a person who has worked to help protect the our environment.
Board member Carol Gay was also honored after leaving the board for many years of service to SOLF and the conservation community.
Wolverines by Rebecca Watters, April 16, 2015
Southborough native Rebecca Watters, an Algonquin Regional High School graduate, shared her experiences doing research, both in the United States and Mongolia, on the elusive wolverine. She was part of a 5 person team on a National Geographic sponsored research project that cross country skied through the remote Darhad region of Mongolia. Her talk explored the biology and ecology of wolverines, the critical questions of how to conserve climate sensitive wildlife, the adventures on skis, foot, and horseback that go with research efforts on a high-elevation species on two continents, and what we can learn from scientific and conservation dialogue across cultures. You can read about her research and see photos of the expedition in this article from the Community Advocate. A recording of the presentation is available here. This program was supported by a grant from the Southborough Community Fund.
Lyme and Other Tick-Borne Diseases, March 24, 7:00 PM, Southborough Library
Sandra Bonzagni shared her experience with tick-borne diseases by telling about the difficulties in diagnosis and treatment of this disease. Information was also given about other tick-born infections, such as Babesiosis and Anaplasmosis as well as information about personal and property protection from ticks. This program was supported by a grant from the Southborough Community Fund. You can see a video of the presentation here. The video was recorded and posted by Southborough Access Media.
Solf Obtains a Southborough Community Fund Grant
SOLF is pleased to announce that it received a $2500 grant from the Southborough Community Fund. The grant money will be used to continue the wildlife survey begun last year at Beals Preserve and to fund educational programs for the community.
Family Nature Walk at Beals Preserve, Sunday, October 19
Nine happy hikers participated in a Nature Walk, Sunday October 19, at the Beals preserve, led by SOLF trustee Debbie Costine. The weather was cooler than the previous several days but the activity kept us all nice and warm! None had been to the Preserve before so this also served as an orientation. We saw several swans on the reservoir channel, some interesting fungus, beautiful colored leaves and the children pulled lots of the “invasive” Buckthorn bush.
2014 Elaine Beals Award Presented to Elizabeth Meyer
It is a pleasure to announce that the Southborough Open Land Foundation has chosen Elizabeth Meyer as the recipient of the 2014 Elaine Beals Conservation Award.
Betty and her husband Bernie have lived in Southborough for 46 years. During that time, in addition to raising four children, Betty has been very active within the community. At SOLF we of course focus on her dedication to environmental issues. Betty served on the board of SOLF for 24 years before stepping aside last year. For several of those years she was the clerk for SOLF, diligently taking and writing up the minutes, and sending out acknowledgments for contributions that we received. In 2005, she tirelessly helped with the education efforts in town as to why we should buy the Conservation Restriction on Chestnut Hill Farm, a campaign that succeeded at the January 2006 Special Town Meeting that voted overwhelmingly to purchase the Conservation Restriction in order to protect the beautiful Chestnut Hill Farm property from development. Last year before SOLF’s 25th anniversary celebration, Betty approached numerous businesses convincing them to donate goods and services for the silent auction. She has worked as a volunteer at the New England Wildflower Society. Betty also served on the Southborough Opportunity Partnership Committee (SHOPC) committee trying to find ways to bring affordable housing to Southborough. She was very active with the Friends of the Library for many years. In retirement Betty and Bernie are traveling and enjoy spending time at their other home in Stowe, Vermont. The award was presented to Betty on October 18th at a gathering at the home of Attila Herczeg and his wife Susanne Healy. The purpose of the gathering was not only to honor Betty, but also to recognize the efforts of the numerous volunteers who took part in the six month long herpetological study that was conducted at Beals Preserve.
Quabbin, A History and Explorers Guide: Watch the Video
SOLF and the Friends of the Southborough Library jointly sponsored a presentation on May 21, 2014, by Michael Tougias, author of Quabbin, A History and Explorers Guide. As you may know, the Quabbin Reservoir is the source of Southborough’s drinking water. Michael gave a narrated slide presentation about the Quabbin Reservoir including a discussion of the “lost towns” flooded to create the Quabbin, the construction of the reservoir, and how the Quabbin works today. In addition, he took the audience on a natural history tour of the Quabbin and surrounding area with suggestions for day trips. His slides include before and after images of the lost towns, workers building the dams and aqueduct, the grand opening of the reservoir, wildlife of the Quabbin, unique natural places, and favorite trails and entrance gates. If you would like to watch a video of the presentation, click here. The presentation is about an hour in length. The video was produced by Katelyn Willis, Executive Director, Southborough Access Media. We thank her for her gracious and willing assistance in this project. Thank you Katelyn!
May 21, 2014, Michael Tougias Speaking on the History and Development of the Quabbin Reservoir
Did you ever wonder where Southborough gets its wonderful drinking water? Join us on May 21, 2014, when SOLF and the Friends of the Southborough Library jointly sponsor a presentation by Michael Tougias, author of Quabbin, A History and Explorers Guide. Michael has written many books about outdoor activities and the history of New England. His most recent book, The Finest Hours, is being made into a motion picture by Disney. Michael will present a narrated slide presentation about the Quabbin Reservoir including a discussion of the “lost towns” flooded to create the Quabbin, the construction of the reservoir, and how the Quabbin works today. In addition, Tougias will take the audience on a natural history tour of the Quabbin and surrounding area with suggestions for day trips. His slides include before and after images of the lost towns, workers building the dams and aqueduct, the grand opening of the reservoir, wildlife of the Quabbin, unique natural places, and favorite trails and entrance gates. View a flyer here.
Please join us for this wonderful presentation. It will be held at 7:00PM at the Southborough Library, 25 Main Street, Southborough. The presentation is free and open to the public.
If you would like more information about the Quabbin Reservoir or recreational activities, visit the MassGove website.
Bird Walk With Jeff Collins, Saturday May 17, 2014
Unfortunately, due to the heavy rain, the bird walk had to be cancelled and we are not able to reschedule for this spring. Hopefully next year will produce a more opportune day.
On Saturday, May 17, 2014, the Southborough Open Land Foundation will take part in Mass Audubon’s annual “Bird-a-thon” with a bird walk led by Jeff Collins. The walk will be at Beals Preserve, meeting at 7:00 AM sharp at the triangle area of Main St. (Route 30) and Northborough Rd. for a brief introduction. The walk should finish at approximately 9:00 AM. No previous bird watching experience is necessary. Last year walkers at this popular event saw a variety of birds including a Chimney Swift, American Goldfinch, American Robin, Baltimore Oriole, Barn Swallow, Black-throated Blue Warbler, Bobolink, Common Grackle, Common Yellowthroat, Comorant, Eastern Kingbird, Gray Catbird, Great Blue Heron, Great Crested Flycatcher, Green Heron, House sparrow, Indigo Bunting, Mourning Dove, Northern Cardinal, Red-tailed hawk, Red-winged Blackbird, Song Sparrow, Tree Swallow, and a Yellow Warbler.
Jeff Collins, Director of Mass Audubon’s Ecological Management Department has led many birding tours in North and South America. He shares a wide range of information on plants, animals, birds and habitats as well has his enthusiasm for the natural beauty of each destination .If you would like more information about the Bird-a-thon, or to contribute to its support, visit Jeff’s Bird-a-thon page.
Bring your binoculars and, of course, dress appropriately for ticks! This event is free and open to all.
History of Wildlife Conservation and Recovery in Massachusetts
The 2014 Annual Meeting of SOLF featured a presentation by Dr. Thomas French from Massachusetts Fish and Widlife on the History of Wildlife Conservation and Recovery in Massachusetts. In this presentation, Dr. French discussed the overabundance of wildlife encountered by our earliest settlers to the subsequent endangerment of many species because of the loss of woodlands due to land clearing for farming and over hunting in the 18th and 19th centuries. He also discussed recent and projected changes to the suburban wildlife of our region, including the increased sightings of bear and moose. Dr. French has graciously shared his presentation with us and you can download it here as a pdf file (7.3 mb).
Annual Meeting, May 7, 2014
The Annual Meeting of SOLF featuring a presentation by Dr. Thomas French from Massachusetts Fish and Widlife was held May 7, 2014 at the Southborough Community House.
Dr. French, Assistant Director for the Department of Fish and Game’s (DFG) Natural Heritage Program spoke on the History of Wildlife Conservation and Recovery in Massachusetts, from the overabundance of wildlife encountered by our earliest settlers to the endangerment of many species because of the loss of woodlands and over hunting in the 18th and 19th centuries. He also discussed recent and projected changes to the suburban wildlife of our region, including the increased sightings of bear and moose. Dr. French has graciously shared his presentation with us and you can download it here as a pdf file (7.3 mb).
It was also announced that the Elaine Beals Conservation Award was presented to Betty Meyer. Because Betty was unable to be at the meeting to receive the award, it will be presented at a ceremony later in the year. This award is presented annually by SOLF to a person who has worked to help protect the environment in Southborough. Betty, a 23 year member of the Board of Trustees of SOLF was honored for her contributions to SOLF and the preservation of open land in Southborough.
Can Recycling, December 11, 2013
SOLF trustees emptied and bagged the bottle recycling bin at the Southborough Transfer Station on December 11, 2013. Money raised from the recycled bottles aids SOLF in its stewardship and educational activities. Thank you Acacia Warren, Carol Gay, Bill Sines, Hal Kiess, Bill Hohenberger, Amy Kassatly, Sally Watters, and Dick Dinjian for braving the cold and helping empty the bottle bin.
Butterfly Walk, July 13, 2013
SOLF sponsored a butterfly walk on July 13 at 10:00 AM at Beals Preserve led by Stephen Moore and Barbara Vokle from the Massachusetts Butterfly Club. Unfortunately, it began to rain shortly before the walk was to begin, and butterflies are sun loving. But the group of 15 attendees walked the trails of Beals Preserve in the rain anyhow. No butterflies were seen, but several moths, some spiders, a hummingbird in the trees near the butterfly planting, and a common yellow-throat warbler were spotted. There was also a self-sown Cone Flower along the main lane. All-in-all, no butterflies, but an interesting and fun walk.
Award Given to Sally Watters
At the SOLF Board of Trustees meeting of June 18, 2013, Sally Watters finished her term as Southborough Open Land Foundation (“SOLF”) president, which she held since 2007.
The highlight of Sally’s term was that of SOLF receiving a 56-acre parcel of land in 2008 from Elaine and the late Phil Beals, longtime Southborough residents and area civic leaders. Then with help from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and many volunteers, Sally and other SOLF trustees turned a section of Beals Preserve into an “early succession habitat to promote biodiversity for at-risk species. Since 2009, SOLF has also hosted many passive recreation and nature seminars at this beautiful property for the community’s benefit.
Sally received her AB in History from St. Lawrence University and MA in History from Clark University. She worked for several years as head counselor at the Massachusetts Audubon Society’s Stony Brook Reservation Day Camp. A history and geography teacher for 34 years in the Walpole Public Schools, Sally won an award from the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library for outstanding curriculum development. As befits an educator, Sally was especially interested in sharing SOLF properties with area youth for education and leadership development opportunities, including local Boy Scout troops, Girl Scout troops, Southborough’s Extended Day Program, and Algonquin Regional High School community service projects.
A SOLF trustee since 1990, Sally also supports Pilgrim Congregational Church, is an Election Day poll volunteer, and helps organize the Boston Marathon at the Hopkinton, MA starting line.
Sally and husband Jed moved to Southborough in 1976. They are parents of two daughters, both graduates of Algonquin and St. Lawrence. Rebecca also received a degree from the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Science and has done environmental work in Mongolia and Cambodia. She presently works for a conservation organization in Jackson, WY. Amanda works as an editor for science textbooks, enjoys nature photography, and is an elite runner.
To recognize Sally’s many civic contributions, Southborough’s Board of Selectmen designated June 18, 2013, as Sally B. Watters “Day of Honor.” Congratulations Sally.
The photos below show Sally with the proclamation from the Southborough Board of Selectmen, and the proclamation given her.
The Pollinator Garden
On June 4, 2013, SOLF sponsored Kim Smith, author, illustrator, and designer of Kim Smith Designs, who presented a stunning slide show and informative lecture, The Pollinator Garden. We also saw a video called BomBom Butterfly which demonstrates the life cycle of the Black Swallowtail Butterfly. You can read more about Kim Smith and this program at Kim Smith Designs.
Bird Walk with Jeff Collins
A group of early risers joined Massachusetts Audubon’s Jeff Collins at Beals Preserve on May 18, 2013, to learn about birds in the Southborough area. In comparison to previous walks, we saw fewer species because a spring weather pattern shifted migration to this Midwest this year. Nevertheless, a variety of species were observed including a Chimney Swift, American Goldfinch, American Robin, Baltimore Oriole, Barn Swallow, Black-throated Blue Warbler, Bobolink, Common Grackle, Common Yellowthroat, Comorant, Eastern Kingbird, Gray Catbird, Great Blue Heron, Great Crested Flycatcher, Green Heron, House sparrow, Indigo Bunting, Mourning Dove, Northern Cardinal, Red-tailed hawk, Red-winged Blackbird, Song Sparrow, Tree Swallow, and a Yellow Warbler. A Black-capped Chickadee, Blue-winged Warbler, Northern Parula Warbler, Overnbird, and Yellow Warbler were heard, but not seen.
2013 Annual Meeting
The 2013 annual meeting SOLF on May 7 featured a presentation on co-existing with coyotes by John Maguranis, the Animal Control Officer for the Town of Belmont, and the Massachusetts representative to Project Coyote.
The meeting also featured the presentation of the annual Elaine Beals Conservation Award to Southborough resident Rhonda Russian for her 22 years of service on the Southborough Conservation Commission and her work as an attorney for the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection. Rhonda also received a proclamation of appreciation from the Massachusetts House of Representatives presented by State Representative Carolyn Dykema. The Elaine Beals Award is presented annually by SOLF to a person who has worked to help protect the environment in Southborough. Rhonda is shown receiving the award from Elaine Beals, and with State Representative Carolyn Dykema and SOLF President Sally Watters.
Two members of the Board of Trustees were also recognized for their service to SOLF. Outgoing president Sally Watters was presented a drawing from Beals Preserve, and three books were presented to the Southborough Library in honor of long-time trustee Betty Meyer, who is retiring from the board this year. Congratulations to all.
2013 Elaine Beals Award Presented to Rhonda Russian
The Elaine Beals Conservation Award was presented to Rhonda Russian at the annual meeting of SOLF on May 7, 2013. The award was given to Rhonda for her 22 years of service on the Southborough Conservation Commission and her work as an attorney for the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection. State Representative Carolyn Dykema also presented a proclamation of appreciation on behalf of the Massachusetts House of Representatives. The Elaine Beals Award is presented annually by SOLF to a person who has worked to help protect the environment in Southborough. Rhonda is shown receiving the award from Elaine Beals, and with State Representative Carolyn Dykema and SOLF President Sally Watters.
Earth Day 2013 Cleanup
Thank you to everyone who participated in the Earth Day Clean Up and the Beals Preserve Invasive Plant attack today. Thanks to your efforts the area along Rte 85 from Templman Woods down to Richards Rd. looks much nicer. Let’s hope our attack on invasive plants at Beals Preserve will help stop their spread.
Animal Tracking, February 23, 2013
Animal tracking expert David Brown led a group at Beals Preserve to identify animal tracks in the snow. Evidence was found of coyotes, cottontail rabbits, gray squirrels, raccoon, mink,fishers, and other animals. The pictures below show David Brown and the group participants.
David Brown has shared with us his The Companion Guide to Trackards for North American Mammals has just been released for sale by the publisher. The 245-page guide interprets illustrations on the Trackards while providing additional illustrations and detailed information on track and scat morphology, trails, behavior and habitat. Each species-chapter also provides comparisons with the similar sign of other species and shows how to tell them apart. The two publications were designed as a single integrated system for successful identification of wildlife evidence found in the field.
Visit David Brown’s website: http://www.dbwildlife.com
Heritage Day
Thank you to all who stopped by to visit our booth and buy note cards on Heritage Day, October 8. If you joined our email list, watch for an announcement of a walk at Beals Preserve in the next few weeks. If you are not on our email list and would like to receive emails of upcoming event and activities, go to our Contact page and send us an email requesting that you name be put on our list.
Jason El Massih Eagle Scout Project
Boy Scout Troop 92 Eagle Scout candidate Jason El Massih and scouts from Troop 92 worked at Beals Preserve on September 8, 2012 installing gates to limit access to the ongoing Wildlife Habitation Improvement Project. Thank you Jason and scouts from Troop 92.
Butterfly Walk with Steve Moore and Barbara Volkle
On July 15, 2012, Steve Moore, president of the Mass Buttefly Club and Barbara Volkle led a walk to observe the myriad butterflies at Beals Preserve.
Edible Plant Walk
June 12, 2012
Edible plant expert Russ Cohen led a tour of the edible plants found on Beals Preserve
Walking History Tour of Beals Preserve
Whitney Beals led a walking history tour of Beals Preserve on June 10, 2012. Whit talked about the history of the Beals Preserve property from the time that his family moved to Southboro in 1950, the dairy herd that used to graze there, the ice pond, the MDC police, and other memories about how the land was used as well as how much the property has changed.
2012 Elaine Beals Conservation Award Presented to Meme Luttrell
May 29, 2012
SOLF has chosen Meme Luttrell as the very deserving recipient of 2012 Elaine Beals Conservation Award. Meme has been on the Southborough Open Space Preservation Commission for over 10 years, serving as chairman for much of the time. During her tenure, the Commission has fought hard to preserve as much open space as possible. She helped lead the town sponsored public outreach for purchasing the conservation restriction on Chestnut Hill Farm working alongside SOLF and SVT. In addition, Meme was a moving force to pass the Community Preservation Act. Recently the Open Space Preservation Commission researched all open space set asides for subdivisions in the town and created a GIS mapping data layer on the town GIS system. It was this research that led to passage this year of the CPC funding of deed research on those parcels of land to try to ensure that the open space is being protected.
In recognition of Meme’s tireless work to protect open space and the environment in Southborough, SOLF is proud to honor her with the Elaine Beals Conservation award for 2012. The Elaine Beals Conservation Award was presented to Meme Luttrell at the annual meeting of SOLF. Meme is shown receiving the award from Elaine Beals. (Photo by Hewitt Heiserman)
Big Night For Salamanders, March 21, 2012.
On March 21, 2012, SOLF presented Award winning author Sarah Marwil Lamstein with a moving story of a boy takeing charge to help his beloved salamanders. Evan can hardly wait for Big Night. During the first warm night rain of spring, Big Night spotted salamanders by the hundreds crawl out of the woods and down to a natural pool across the road. There they will breed and lay their eggs. How can Evan and his parents help these delicate creatures cross the road in safety? Evan has the solution.
Carol Benioff’s colorful and animated illustrations transport the reader into Evan’s world, where a child can do small yet wonderful things to help other creatures.
New Trail Signs at Beals Preserve, September 2011
The trustees of SOLF thank Eagle Scout candidate Sam Distefano and the members of Southborough Boy Scout Troop 92 for their wonderful work providing signage for the trails at Beals Preserve!
2011 Elaine Beals Conservation Award Presented to Richard V. Upjohn
SOLF has chosen Richard V. Upjohn to receive the Elaine Beals Conservation Award for 2011. Dick, who grew up in New York City, developed a love of the outdoors at his family’s summer place in the Monadnock region of New Hampshire. His passion for hiking, birding, and mountain climbing was honed at a summer camp in the High Peaks area of the Adirondacks where he worked at a summer camp, and later bought a home. He and his wife Sabra moved to Southborough with their family in 1960 when he came to Fay School. He has shared his love of nature with students. To emphasize the need to conserve resources Dick started the recyling program at Fay. He later helped establish the recycling program for the town, serving on the Southborough Recycling Committee. Dick has served the town of Southborough in several other capacities, serving as a longtime member of the Conservation Commission and on the Community Preservation Commission. Practicing what he preaches, he is often seen bicycling about town. SOLF is pleased to recognize a person who has quietly served the cause of conservation in Southborough.
The Trustees of SOLF were saddened to learn of the sudden death of Dick Upjohn on January 4, 2012. We will miss his vast knowledge about environmental issues in Southborough. We extend our sympathies to his wife, Sabra, and to the rest of his family.
Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program at Beals Preserve
The Southborough Open Land Foundation (SOLF) was selected to receive funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program (WHIP). The Natural Resources Conservation Service, a branch of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, administers the program. The aim of the project is to remove invasive plants and to improve wildlife habitat for at-risk species such as the New England Cottontail and the American Woodcock. Approximately 6 acres of the Beals Preserve were cleared to create a shrubland, restoring that area to more closely resemble the landscape of fifty years ago. The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation gave official approval for the required forestry work. SOLF has committed to long-term management activities to ensure the integrity and viability of the improved wildlife habitat.
The project began on January 3, 2011. The work was done by a mechanical mower and the picture shows the work in progress and the results of the clearing.
Scout Troop 92 Participates in Service Project at Beal’s Preserve
Working with the Southborough Open Land Foundation (SOLF), Boy Scouts from Southborough Troop 92 performed a service project at the Beals Preserve. Over the years, there has been an accumulating pile of illegally dumped yard waste (leaves, brush and grass clippings) at the Red Gate Lane entrance to the Beals Preserve. The Scouts worked hard to disperse the piles which improves the environmental quality of the area. In addition to cleaning up the yard waste, the Scouts removed several large rocks from the trail and lined the trail edge with logs to help define it. The hope is that the improved appearance along with public outreach will help prevent additional dumping.
Many residents and landscapers do not realize that it is illegal to bring their leaves and other yard waste to conservation land.
If you live near conservation land, never dump your yard waste (or Christmas trees) and make sure your landscaper does not either. Create a compost area in your own yard to create good mulch for your gardens or take it to the Southborough Transfer Station compost bin.
Oak Grove Painters
Arts Center at Southborough
21 Highland Street, Southborough
Co-sponsored by the Arts Center at Southborough and the Southborough Open Land Foundation
The Oak Grove Painters – a group from the Greater Boston area, have been painting regularly at Chestnut Hill Farm for several years. This show, featuring one of Southborough’s most treasured landscapes, will be on display at the Arts Center at Southborough through October 24, 2010. Gallery hours are Monday through Thursday 9:00AM to 4:00PM; Saturday and Sunday, 1:00 to 4:00PM.
Featured below are paintings by Will Kirkpatrick.
