The Westport Land Conservation Trust (WLCT) has secured the opportunity to purchase the former Peaceful Acres Farm, comprising 30 acres located at 311 Drift Road. We are grateful to have the opportunity to preserve this property forever, thanks to the willingness of the Ferreira Family. This special landscape hosts a wealth of ecological resources including Kirby Brook (designated as a Coldwater Fishery Resource by Mass Wildlife’s Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program), vernal pools, productive wetland, and upland forest. The property also has historic significance and is a prize opportunity for passive recreation. WLCT will permanently preserve the 30 acres through the sale of a Conservation Restriction (CR) to the Town of Westport ensuring perpetual public access.

Preserving a Coldwater Fishery Resource

There are a number of freshwater streams across the Town that continue to supply cold, clean water to the Westport River supporting recreation and ecological health. The Commonwealth has designated Kirby Brook as a Coldwater Fishery for its special ability to host native brook trout and other coldwater fish species. The preservation of Peaceful Acres would conserve a critical convergence of Kirby Brook and its associated watershed, thus providing a substantial ecological benefit to both the Brook and Westport River.

Public Enjoyment & Cultural Significance

If WLCT purchases this property, it would create trails and open it as a public destination for all to explore. Further, an adjacent 24 acres of conserved land with similar ecological resources presents an opportunity for a combined trail system. WLCT would interpret the new acquisition to celebrate the story of small family farms at the heart of Westport’s heritage and encourage greater public connection to the land.

Maintaining Our Rural Character

As identified in both the Town’s Master Plan and Open Space Plan, the protection of properties that preserve the exceptional rural and agricultural character of Westport are a priority for preservation. Further, the Commonwealth has identified Drift Road as a significant scenic corridor; acquiring Peaceful Acres would conserve over 400’ of frontage on this scenic road.

WLCT Must Close by December

Acquiring and preserving this property conserves the 30 acres of Peaceful Acres Farm: safeguarding Kirby Brook, its surrounding wetlands, and upland forest for generations to come.

We’ve received enthusiastic support from the community through a grant from the Community Preservation Committee (CPC), a major lead gift, and various gifts from generous families across Town. We must raise an additional $235,000 by November of 2026 to preserve this for the community forever!

For more information email ross@westportlandtrust.org