Critical Habitat, Waterways, and Access to Explore
This complex project required the coordination and commitment from landowners, donors, the Town of Westport, and many conservation partners. WLCT is grateful for this support and know that this property will be enjoyed for generations to come.
Gaining Greater Access to the Outdoors
Over the past few years, we have heard many requests for increased trails. The Town of Westport and WLCT share a commitment to creating greater access and deeper connections to the outdoors. Acting on this shared vision, The Town transferred 37.9 acres of backland abutting Westport Woods to the Conservation Commission at Town Meeting this year. Under the care of the Conservation Commission, WLCT will be able to create expanded trails from Westport Woods.
In the ensuing months, WLCT worked closely with the Silvia and Messier families to purchase 150 acres abutting the Conservation Commission’s land. The Trustees, an important partner on this project, will hold a conservation restriction on these properties, protecting them in perpetuity. Together, this newly protected land adds almost 180+ acres to a conservation corridor (a combination of 40 years’ of preserved farmland, forest land, and publicly accessible land) that stretches from Sodom Road down to the Westport River. These acres, considered critical habitat by the Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program, will provide miles of new experiences for visitors.
“This was a transformative project and WLCT was thrilled to take it on. What started as a collaborative conversation with the Town of Westport Conservation Commission about expanding a highly visited trail system led to conversations with the Silvia and Messier families, Westporters who embody the values of preserving what is special. For John, Linda, and Ken Silvia especially, this project became a way to honor the legacy of their late parents, John Sr. and Joyce.” –Ross Moran, Westport Land Conservation Trust Executive Director
One of Our Largest Projects To Date
The Sodom Road Conservation Project is one of WLCT’s largest single acquisition projects in our 52 years. Early in our planning, an anonymous foundation provided WLCT with a significant grant–leading the way! Several conservation partners also provided grants, as well as individual gifts from WLCT supporters. A grant from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs allowed WLCT to complete the project.
Connecting people to the land is a pillar of the Westport Land Conservation Trust’s mission. We look forward to welcoming everyone to the Westport Woods expansion in 2025 and beyond.
What’s Next?
During the winter, WLCT staff will be assessing the property for new trails. We’ll also be keeping our eyes and ears open for the animals and birds who make their homes here, as well as plant and tree specimens that make this land special. Look for more information in the new year!
Enjoy this bird’s eye view of Westport Woods!
Your annual contributions support our land preservation program in creating greater access for the public and conserving critical habitat and natural resources.