On October 20, ROSA member Scott Sharlow led an inaugural hike of the new Bennett’s Pond trail system. The trail system was designed and mapped by Scott, and ROSA members marked and cleared the trails.
Bennett's Pond hikers enjoying refreshments provided by ROSA at the end of the short hike. Over 75 adults and children enjoyed the spectacular fall day, with the foliage near peak on the Bennett's Pond property.
During the past four months, ROSA volunteers constructed a total of four pedestrian bridges over small streams and wetlands in order to facilitate public access while protecting wetlands habitat. The bridges were designed by ROSA member Eric Kristoffersen, and were cut and assembled with the help of many skilled Ridgefielders who donated their time. We wish to thank Chris Owczarak, Carl Kristoffersen, David Sarath, Sean Failla, Scott Nuechterlein, Marc Campbell and Bill Hogan for their efforts on our behalf.
ROSA volunteers install a 22-ft beam for one of the four bridges. The bridges were constructed from white oak specially milled by Board Silly Custom Sawmill in Ridgefield. ROSA paid for all materials, and all labor was donated.
The trail system makes use of existing old logging roads and trails, and avoids the more sensitive areas and steep slopes where erosion could result. An excellent view of the pond is afforded from the green trail that runs along the southern edge of the pond. The orange trail connects the property to the Pine Mountain preserve, and the blue trail to the Hemlock Hills preserve. The land contains a large variety of natural features, including the pond and its wetland system, small streams, gentle slopes, open fields, and steep rocky cliffs to the north.
In accordance with Ridgefield Conservation Commission rules, there is no hunting allowed on the property, and all motor vehicles, including snowmobiles and ATVs are prohibited. When the land is conveyed to the State by the town in exchange for their $4.25 million contribution (expected some time next year), it will be under the jurisdiction of the Connecticut DEP and their regulations will apply.
