Beehive Check- Caring for Your Colony
2025-06-14 10:00 - 11:30 (America/New_York) | Barlow Nature Preserve, 449 Westerly Bradford Road, Westerly, RI, 02891, United States
Dive into the art of hive inspection with this practical, hands-on workshop designed for beekeepers of all experience levels.

Regular hive inspections are crucial to ensuring a healthy and productive colony, and this hands-on workshop will teach you the key techniques for thoroughly examining your hive. With expert guidance from Cail Calder of Westerbee honey, aka “The Beeman“, you’ll learn how to diagnose potential issues and make informed decisions to keep your bees thriving.
In this workshop, you’ll:

Get an in-depth look at how to properly open and inspect a beehive, including safety tips for working with bees;
Learn how to identify the queen, brood patterns, and honey stores, and how to assess colony health based on these indicators;
Understand how to spot signs of disease, pests, or other potential problems within the hive;
Practice recognizing the symptoms of common issues like mite infestations, queen failure, and hive overcrowding;
Gain skills in handling frames and using equipment such as smokers, hive tools, and protective gear;
Learn how to record your findings and track the progress of your colony over time;
Understand when and how to intervene with appropriate actions like mite treatments, adding new frames, or expanding the hive.

This event is second in a 3-part series. While Setting Up Your Hive (March 27) is not a required prerequisit for this event, it offers excellent background information. We invite you to register for all three–including the 3rd in the series: From Hive to Jar (August 21).
Who Should Attend:
This workshop is perfect for beginner to intermediate beekeepers who want hands-on experience in inspecting and maintaining healthy bee colonies. It is geared toward adults and high school students.
Materials:
Hives, tools, and frames will be provided, as well as a detailed guide for conducting your own future hive inspections.Participants are required to bring a suit and/or bee veil as we will be opening hives for inspection and discussion.
Parking is available in the main parking lot at Barlow Nature Preserve, with overflow parking in the field behind the outbuildings to the east (up the farm road).
Workshop is $15 per WLT member and $25.00 per non-member, which Cail generously pledged to donate to WLT. Registration is required; spots are limited.
This is the second in a three part workshop series. While each workshop can be attended independently, we invite you to consider registering for all three for the maximum impact.
Session 1: Setting Up Your Hive on March 27
Session 3: From Hive to Jar on August 21

Outdoor Summer Solstice Yoga
2025-06-20 18:00 - 19:00 | Winnapaug Farm Preserve, 117 Shore Road, Westerly, RI, 02891, United States, 117 Shore Rd, Westerly, RI, 02891, United States
Come celebrate the summer solstice and the longest day of the year with a special outdoor yoga class led by Krystal Rose from BarreCoast.
Bring your yoga mat, another mat or sheet/blanket to place underneath, and a bottle of water.
Winnapaug Farm Preserve is located off of Shore Road in Westerly. Take a left off Shore from Winnapaug Road. You will see the field ahead to your right. Approximately 1/4 mile down you will drive through the red gate and park where cars are lining up. You’ll be a few steps from where class will be held!

Advanced Registration Required.

Westerly Land Trust members, contact Erika Lebling
elebling@westerlylandtrust.org for reduced price registration of $10

CLICK TO REGISTER FOR SUMMER SOLSTICE YOGA

Forest Bathing
2025-06-21 08:30 - 11:00 | Wahaneeta Preserve, 118 Moorehouse Road, Westerly, RI, 02891, United States
Slow down, awaken your senses and connect with Nature as you luxuriate in a Forest Bath!

Join Deirdre O’Connor for a slow and easy walk in Wahaneeta Preserve. Forest Bathing is the pleasant practice of spending time in nature to enhance health and happiness. Evidence-based research confirms that time in nature has profound healing benefits for physical and emotional well – being. The term Forest Bathing comes from the Japanese tradition of “shin-rin yoku” literally translated to “bathing in the atmosphere of the forest”. On this walk you will experience and learn about how the regular practice of Forest Bathing can restore health and vitality by strengthening immune function, lowering stress hormones, improving mood and sleep, and stimulating creativity. Forest Bathing also offers us the opportunity to deepen our relationship with the natural world.
You will be walking slowly for about one mile on mostly flat but uneven forest trails as you are offered a series of invitations to explore the landscape with your senses and connect with the natural world. We will be walking and sitting for 2 hours and will finish our walk by sharing tea together. This experience is open to ages 15 and up.

Registration is required. Spots are limited.

Free for WLT members, $10 for not-yet-members (If you’d like to join WLT, please click here.)

Parking is limited please carpool if possible.

Deirdre O’Connor is a Certified Forest Therapy Guide through the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy. Deirdre is delighted to share the Healing power of Nature through Forest Bathing where Nature and our true natures come to know one another. She resides in Westerly, enjoying birding, botany, bicycling and exploring the next cool place to share Forest Bathing.

Summer Solstice Flower Crown Workshop hosted by Echo Rock Flowers
2025-06-21 15:00 - 16:30 | Barlow Nature Preserve, 449 Westerly Bradford Rd, Westerly, RI 02891, USA
Celebrate the magic of the longest day of the year with Echo Rock Flowers! Join our Summer Solstice Flower Crown Workshop to officially welcome the arrival of summer. Surrounded by the peace and serenity of our budding flower field, you’ll learn how to craft your own stunning flower crown with expert guidance. Whether you’re celebrating the season or simply looking for a creative escape, this workshop is the perfect way to rejoice in the solstice.
Click Here for More Info & to Sign Up!
Stephanie is generously donating 10% of all workshop proceeds to support the Westerly Land Trust and our mission to conserve open space, revitalize significant properties, and provide environmental programs for the enduring benefit of our community!

Kayak, Yoga, Float & Flow
2025-06-29 09:00 - 11:30 | 197 Potter Hill Rd, 197 Potter Hill Road, Westerly, RI, 02891, United States
Start your adventure with a guided yoga session at WLT’s Flora Whiteley Preserve to warm up for a beautiful paddle on the Pawcatuck River.

Certified yoga teacher, Janice Fifer, will guide us through Sun Salutations with a focus in hip and shoulder openers to prepare for a paddle up the Pawcatuck River. We will stop along the way for a short meditation and ride the river’s gentle current back to the put-in point. The morning will end with relaxation and a closing circle. This is a moderate paddle for kayakers with some experience, with the emphasis on relaxing and enjoying nature.
What to bring: BYO Kayak, Paddle, Life Jacket, Yoga Mat, Large Towel (to put under your yoga mat), Water, Bug Repellent. Be aware that your shoes will get wet and muddy.
Please note: Rhode Island State Regulations require that everyone, regardless of age, MUST wear a US Coast Guard approved life jacket, fastened in the manner the manufacturer intended.
This event is FREE for members, and $10 per person for not-yet members. Not a member and would like to be? CLICK HERE!
Registration required, spots are limited.

Farm Squad (Ages 5-10)
2025-07-08 09:00 - 2025-07-31 12:00 | Barlow Nature Preserve, 449 Westerly Bradford Road, Westerly, RI, 02891, United States
Grab your friends, head to the farm, and join our Farm Squad to learn directly from the land.

Each Tuesday and Thursday for 4 weeks we will gather at Barlow Nature Preserve (home to Frontier Farm, Echo Rock Flowers, and WLT’s pollinator and children’s garden), to explore different entities of the farming world; planting, pollinators, soil health, biodiversity around the farm, harvesting, composting, microgreens, and hydroponics. The fun doesn’t stop there! We will dig into nature art, hiking, nature themed literature, and even get our taste buds involved for a well-rounded, engaging, summer learning adventure.
Tuesdays & Thursdays: July 8 – July 31 (8 total programs) 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM.

NO COST thanks to generous community support.
Registration is required. Spots are limited. Farm Squad is open to ALL students regardless of what school you attend (including homeschool). By registering for this “event” you are registering for all 8 programs.
Absentee’s: up to 2 planned absentee’s.
Ages: 5 – 10.
Transportation to and from program is required.

CLICK HERE to hear from our 2024 Farm Squad!!
Questions- please email Lauren Barber, lbarber@westerylandtrust.org or call 401-315-2610 x1.

Outdoor Yoga Flow
2025-07-13 09:00 - 10:00 | Winnapaug Farm Preserve, 117 Shore Road, Westerly, RI, 02891, United States, 117 Shore Rd, Westerly, RI, 02891, United States
If you’re looking for a special opportunity to connect breath to movement in the great outdoors, this is it!

Join Westerly Land Trust’s very own Lauren Barber, who is also a BarreCoast yoga instructor, for a one-hour outdoor yoga flow at the beautiful Winnapaug Farm Preserve.

Bring your yoga mat, another mat or sheet/blanket to place underneath, and a bottle of water.
Winnapaug Farm Preserve is located off of Shore Road in Westerly. Take a left off Shore from Winnapaug Road. You will see the field ahead to your right. Approximately 1/4 mile down you will drive through the red gate and park where cars are lining up. You’ll be a few steps from where class will be held!

Advanced Registration Required.

Westerly Land Trust members, contact Erika Lebling
elebling@westerlylandtrust.org for reduced price registration of $10

CLICK TO REGISTER FOR OUTDOOR YOGA FLOW

4th Annual WLT Mini BioBlitz at Champlin Farm Preserve
2025-07-20 10:00 - 14:00 | 64 Boombridge Rd, 64 Boombridge Road, Westerly, RI, 02891, United States
Calling all curious humans! Let’s get out there and find all the life that surrounds us, both small and large.

A BioBlitz is an event that focuses on discovering and identifying as many living species as possible. From fungi to trees, mammals to insects, and everything in between, we will try to catch ‘em all– this time at WLT’s latest conserved property, the 90-acre Champlin Farm Preserve!
This is a great opportunity to explore the fields, forests, rocky outcroppings, and riverbank of our newest property. Our stewardship group, the CCC, has been hard at work removing invasives and clearing trails. There is also a 7-acre gravel pit on the property that promises some interesting finds, despite its disturbed nature.
This is a FREE, all-ages, all-abilities, and family-friendly event – it doesn’t matter if you are an expert naturalist or have never stepped into the woods before. The event begins at 10am and we will romp, collect, and explore until 2 pm. If you’d like to explore before the event starts or after it ends, you are more than welcome to! Just let us know so we can make sure you know the lay of the land.
Participants are encouraged to pack a lunch. Light snacks, water, and refreshments will be available as well. We will all take a break, swap stories, and have lunch together at noon.
There are some great tools out there, besides field guides and experts, that can help you identify all kinds of different plants and animals. Be sure to download apps like iNaturalist from the App Store. Play around with them beforehand and be sure to show up with a full battery!
The link to the official iNaturalist project will be coming soon!
If you have any questions, send ’em over to Marc (mdoherty@westerlylandtrust.org)

Date Night Picnic hosted by Echo Rock Flowers
2025-07-25 18:00 - 19:30, 2025-08-08 18:00 - 19:30, 2025-08-29 17:30 - 19:00 | Barlow Nature Preserve, 449 Westerly Bradford Rd, Westerly, RI 02891, USA
Join Echo Rock Flowers for a magical date night amongst the flowers!
Click Here for More Info & to Sign Up!
If you’re looking for a unique date night – a quiet escape where you can connect with your loved one – then keep reading.
Imagine this: you come to the farm and upon entering, you are offered a cold drink and your own picnic basket that has already been lovingly filled with tasty treats. You take in the beauty around as you choose your own table amongst the rows of flowers. At your table is a pre-picked bucket of flowers, 2 vases, and simple directions on how to make your own arrangement. Together you work on creating your floral designs as you sip your libation, snack on light refreshments and enjoy the serenity of the farm in the glow of a Summer evening.
Your Date Night includes:

1 drink per person (for 21+ your options include IPA, Light Lager, Rosé or white wine)
Infused-water station & seltzers for nonalcoholic options
2 Vases + Flowers for you to design with and take home. If you are a couple and/or family, perhaps you keep one arrangements at home and give the other away. If you are friends joining us, then you each get your own!
Refreshments for 2 packed in a picnic basket (*basket not included to take home, allergies accommodated – please list during checkout). Options include, but are not limited to – a charcuterie box, fresh fruit and veggies, croissants with whipped butter and a couple of sweet treats.

Story Time in the Garden
2025-08-05 09:00 - 09:45, 2025-08-12 09:00 - 09:45, 2025-08-19 09:00 - 09:45, 2025-08-26 09:00 - 09:45 | Barlow Nature Preserve, 449 Westerly Bradford Road, Westerly, RI, 02891, United States
Nature-themed books and hands-on fun for kids every Tuesday in August!

Join us for Storytime in the Garden, a gentle and engaging outdoor program designed for children to connect with nature through books and hands-on fun. Each session is offered on Tuesdays through the month of August (8/5, 8/12, 8/19, 8/26) and features a read-aloud of a beautifully illustrated, nature-themed story -celebrating wildlife, flowers, pollinators, and the outdoors. After the story, participants are invited to enjoy a simple, hands-on activity inspired by the book. From binoculars to plants and bug vacuums, every week offers a new way to explore, create, and imagine.
Best for ages 5 and under, but open to all. Parents/caregivers are required to attend and encouraged to participate. Please register in advance to help us best prepare for nature activities.
This program is offered at NO COST thanks to generous community support!
Not able to make it? Check out our Little Free Library by our farm stand at Barlow Nature Preserve.
Parking is available in the main parking lot at Barlow Nature Preserve, with overflow parking in the field behind the outbuildings to the east (up the farm road).

Yin Yoga and Sound Bath Journey
2025-08-10 09:00 - 10:00 | Winnapaug Farm Preserve, 117 Shore Road, Westerly, RI, 02891, United States, 117 Shore Rd, Westerly, RI, 02891, United States
Outdoor Yin Yoga with Sound Bath at the Winnapaug Farm Preserve!

Join us for a tranquil journey of mind and body led by Jill Lyndes and Maddy McCann from BarreCoast. Explore the restorative power of YinYoga postures accompanied by sound.

Bring your yoga mat, another mat or sheet/blanket to place underneath, and a bottle of water.
Winnapaug Farm Preserve is located off of Shore Road in Westerly. Take a left off Shore from Winnapaug Road. You will see the field ahead to your right. Approximately 1/4 mile down you will drive through the red gate and park where cars are lining up. You’ll be a few steps from where class will be held!

Advanced Registration Required.

Westerly Land Trust members, contact Erika Lebling
elebling@westerlylandtrust.org for reduced price registration of $10

CLICK TO REGISTER FOR YIN YOGA AND SOUND BATH JOURNEY

From Hive to Jar
2025-08-21 17:30 - 19:00 | Barlow Nature Preserve, 449 Westerly Bradford Road, Westerly, RI, 02891, United States
Are you ready to dive into the art of harvesting honey?

Join Cail Calder, aka “The Beeman“, of Westerbee honey for a sweet and informative workshop dedicated to the art of harvesting honey. Whether you’re a new beekeeper or a seasoned enthusiast, this hands-on session will guide you through the entire honey harvesting process—from knowing the perfect time to harvest to bottling your delicious liquid gold.
In this workshop, you’ll learn:

How to identify when your hive is ready for honey extraction;
The tools and equipment needed for a safe and effective harvest, including uncapping knives, extractors, and strainers;
Step-by-step instructions for removing honey-filled frames from the hive while maintaining colony health;
Techniques for uncapping the honeycomb and extracting honey with minimal mess;
How to filter and strain the honey to remove wax and debris;
Best practices for storing and preserving honey to ensure its flavor and quality;
Tips for understanding the different types of honey you may harvest based on the bees’ forage, and how to enhance its taste and appearance.

By the end of this workshop, you’ll have the skills and confidence to harvest honey like a pro!
This event is third in a 3-part series. While Setting Up Your Hive (March 27) and Beehive Check- Caring for your Colony (May 31) are not a required prerequisits for this event, they both offer excellent background information. We invite you to register for all three!
Who Should Attend: This workshop is perfect for beekeepers of all levels who are excited to learn about honey harvesting and want hands-on experience. It is geared toward adults and high school students.
Materials: All necessary tools for the extraction process will be provided, including frames, extractors, uncapping tools, and honey jars. You’ll also receive a guide to help you with your own future honey harvests. Participants are required to bring a suit and/or bee veil as we will be opening hives for inspection and discussion.
Parking is available in the main parking lot at Barlow Nature Preserve, with overflow parking in the field behind the outbuildings to the east (up the farm road).
Workshop is $15 per WLT member and $25.00 per non-member, which Cail generously pledged to donate to WLT. Registration is required; spots are limited.
This is the third in a three-part workshop series. While each workshop can be attended independently, we invite you to consider registering for all three for the maximum impact.
Session 1: Setting Up Your Hive, March 27
Session 2: Beehive Check: Caring for Your Colony, May 31

Floral Design Workshop hosted by Echo Rock Flowers
2025-08-22 16:00 - 17:30 | Barlow Nature Preserve, 449 Westerly Bradford Rd, Westerly, RI 02891, USA
Join Echo Rock Flowers this August for a floral design experience like no other! Surrounded by the vibrant beauty of our flower fields, you’ll learn the art of creating stunning compote centerpieces using fresh-picked blooms from our farm. Whether you’re a seasoned flower lover or a beginner eager to explore floral design, this workshop promises inspiration, creativity, and fun.
Click Here for More Info & to Sign Up!
Stephanie is generously donating 10% of all workshop proceeds to support the Westerly Land Trust and our mission to conserve open space, revitalize significant properties, and provide environmental programs for the enduring benefit of our community!

RIWPS: First Thursday Botanizing Walk
2025-09-04 10:00 - 12:00 | Avondale Farm Preserve, Quail Run, Westerly, RI, 02891, United States
WLT is honored to have been invited to lead a Rhode Island Wild Plant Society (RIWPS) First Thursday Botanizing Walk on September 4.

Join WLT’s Land Stewardship Manager Marc Doherty as he leads a slow walk around the coastal grasslands, shrublands, and salt marsh at WLT’s founding property, Avondale Farm Preserve. Avondale Farm is a mixed-use site, where restored native grassland sits alongside a certified-organic hayfield. The walk will begin around the grassland areas, work its way through some shrubland, and finish in the salt marsh at the top of Colonel Willie Cove. Marc will share information on plant identification, some of their uses and ecological roles, and discuss how WLT manages these ecosystems, including their goals, successes, and challenges.

During the grassland tour, expect to see a mix of ecotypic and non-ecotypic species, including wild senna, Joe-Pye weed, New England aster, and New York ironweed, and grasses like indiangrass, big bluestem, and eastern gamagrass. The group will then weave through a shrubland composed of winged sumac, bayberry, wild grape, and numerous invasive shrubs, leading to a salt marsh. A short venture out onto the marsh platform during low tide will reveal native and invasive salt marsh grasses and wildflowers such as salt marsh aster and sea lavender.

Come share your enthusiasm and knowledge. Beginners to experts welcome!
This walk is free and open to the public. Donations to help support Rhode Island Wild Plant Society walks are appreciated. Donate Now to the RIWPS
If you would like to make a donation to the Westerly Land Trust, click here!
General walk guidelines
Wear clothing and sturdy footwear appropriate for the weather conditions and for protection against sun exposure, ticks and other insects, briers, tree root etc. Bring a sufficient supply of water and nourishment for your needs.
Dogs are not permitted.
Cancellations
Should you need to cancel, contact us as soon as possible. office@riwps.org
We walk light rain or shine. In case of cancellations due to poor weather conditions, we will email you. We tend to wait until the day before the walk to make this call as weather forecasts can be changeable.
Registration is required
The number of participants is limited to maximize the ability for everyone to observe the plants and participate in the conversation.
Note: Only one person can register at a time. To register a second person, just repeat the process.
More specific location of the walk is provided upon registration.

Click Here to Register!

Intro to Nature Journaling
2025-09-06 09:30 - 11:30 | Barlow Nature Preserve, 449 Westerly Bradford Road, Westerly, RI, 02891, United States
Slow down. Look closer. Connect with nature.

Discover the joy of nature journaling—a fun, informal way to explore the outdoors using words, pictures, and numbers. Inspired by the practices of John Muir Laws and the Wild
Wonder Foundation, our group, welcomes all ages and experience levels. No artistic skill required!
Why Join?

Deepen your connection to the natural world
Boost curiosity, mindfulness, and appreciation for the environment
Reduce stress through quiet observation
Learn about plants, animals, and landscapes in a creative, personal way
Document your outdoor experiences in a meaningful way

What to Bring:

A notebook or sketchbook
Pens or pencils
Optional: colored pencils, markers, binoculars, magnifying glass

Parking is available in the main parking lot at Barlow Nature Preserve, with overflow parking in the field behind the outbuildings to the east (up the farm road).
Led by Jonah Salsich, a Westerly resident and experienced elementary teacher of over 18 years, who is also an amateur naturalist and artist. After discovering the power of nature journaling, he has blended his passions for teaching, observing, and creating into a practice that sparks wonder and connection. With experience in both journaling and leading nature journaling workshops, he is excited to invite others on this rewarding journey.
This is a relaxed, no-pressure group. We’re here to share inspiration, spend time outdoors, and grow our sense of wonder together—one page at a time.
All are welcome. Come curious!
To introduce everyone to the art of nature journaling and as part of Land Trust Days, this event is free for everyone and open to all ages. There will be two workshops following this intro open to ages 18 and up. Workshop 1 is on September 20, and Workshop 2 is on October 4. We hope to see you there.

CCC Volunteer Season Kick-Off!
2025-09-09 08:30 - 11:00 | Barlow Nature Preserve, 449 Westerly Bradford Rd, Westerly, RI 02891, USA
Interested in joining a community of WLT land stewardship volunteers? Join us as the WLT’s Coffee and Clearing Club kicks off its 2025-2026 volunteer season. Bring your work gloves and loppers and join our weekly work crew! There are many ways to help out, ranging from all abilities!

Coffee is served in The Coop at Barlow Nature Preserve at 8:30 am. Marching Orders are issued at 8:55 am, and volunteers work until 11 am, clearing trails and stone walls, blazing trails, building signs, and more. The CCC works every Tuesday from September through June.

Questions? Email Marc at mdoherty@westerlylandtrust.org.

CCC you there!

Wahaneeta 5K Trail Run- Westerly Track & Athletic Club
2025-09-13 | RI
Start times
8:00am: Registration opens
9:00am: 5K race starts
Course Description
The terrain of the course is entirely dirt trails, with some technical single-track. In order to minimize bunching up at the race start, the course will first run across a short grass field before continuing on double-track for approximately one-half mile. Most of the rest of the course will be on single-track and include challenges such as stream crossings on narrow wooden bridges, hills, and rock gardens. During the course of the race, you will cross streams multiple times, with most but not all having bridge crossings. The course is very spectator friendly, as the start/finish is in the same area, and during the course of the race runners will pass through the start/finish area twice before finishing. Runners and walkers are welcome.
Location
5K course starting and finishing at Wahaneeta Preserve. Purchased by the Westerly Land Trust in 2012, this is a 72-acre conservation property that was run as “Camp Wahaneeta” by the Girl Scouts of RI from 1941 to 1996.
Requirement
Each participant and volunteer must wear at least 200 square inches of orange. Anyone not wearing orange will not be allowed to race per State of RI DEM mandate.
For more information and/or to sign up click HERE.

Westerly Land Trust Farm Dinner- SOLD OUT
2025-09-13 15:30 - 19:30 | Barlow Nature Preserve, 449 Westerly Bradford Road, Westerly, RI, 02891, United States
The Westerly Land Trust 2025 Farm Dinner is now SOLD OUT!
Last year, to focus on permanently protecting the 90-acre Champlin Farm Preserve, we pressed pause on the Farm Dinner. This year, in celebration of this success and all the work we do to connect our community with local agriculture, we are bringing back the Farm Dinner concept—celebrating the bounty of the land by dining together al fresco—with some exciting new twists.
First, this will be a smaller, more intimate experience held at Barlow Nature Preserve, which has been our “home base”, our “hub”, our “headquarters” since we moved here in 2020. For five years, we have gotten to know this beautiful landscape, and helped it grow into a centerpiece of our work, complete with two vibrant working farms, Frontier Farm and Echo Rock Flowers, a farm stand, and the heart of our youth education program.
And, rather than dividing the courses among different chefs, Julian ElFedayni-Connell from Tin Peddler in Stonington and Barbary Coast in Mystic will be curating the entire dinner which is sure to please.
So join us for our 2025 Farm Dinner on Saturday, September 13th beginning at 3:30pm — gather with friends and neighbors out on the land and enjoy a fabulous meal entirely prepared with local ingredients.
We look forward to seeing you at the table!
Special Thanks to the 2025 Farm Dinner’s Presenting Sponsor: South County Tourism Council

Thursday Hike: Grills Preserve
2025-09-18 10:00 - 12:30 | Grills Preserve, 198 Bowling Lane, Westerly, RI, 02808, United States
This walk on WLT’s 500-acre preserve is over primarily flat terrain often along the Pawcatuck River on clear, wide trails.  We will be able to see some newly discovered foundations. There is a gorgeous scenic view from the top of aptly named, Big Hill, which requires a bit of steep climbing. Meet at the parking lot at the cul-de-sac end of Bowling Lane in Bradford Village. Be aware of the construction being done on Bowling Lane, you are still able to drive all the way down though! Please let the hike leader know you will be joining!
Leader: Janice Fifer Phone: 401-213-6479 Email: jhfifer@verizon.net
Important Notes

Distance/ Target Group: Walks are 1 ½ to 3 hours and are open to all ages with the target group being agile seniors.

Estimated Times: Ending times are estimated as it is difficult to ascertain when it will finish due to number of people, how fast/slow the hikers walk, etc. Hikes leave promptly.

Inclement weather: Inclement weather cancels and if in doubt, contact the leader.

Dogs: If you wish to bring a dog, contact the leader as some properties do not allow them. If a dog is present, they must be leashed at all times.

Trail Safety: These are wooded trails with stumps, roots and rocks so be sure to wear hiking boots or good walking shoes. Make sure you bring water and a snack if you want one.

Thursday hike/WLT events: CLICK HERE to sign up for WLT’s email list and receive a monthly email including Thursday hike schedule and other WLT events/programs.
Fluorescent Orange Requirements: In State Management areas everyone is required to wear 200 square inches of solid daylight fluorescent orange from the second Saturday in September to the last day of February and the last Thursday in April to the last day in May, annually.

Nature Journaling: Workshop 1
2025-09-20 09:30 - 11:30 | Wahaneeta Preserve, 118 Moorehouse Road, Westerly, RI, 02891, United States
Slow down. Look closer. Connect with nature.

Discover the joy of nature journaling—a fun, informal way to explore the outdoors using words, pictures, and numbers. Inspired by the practices of John Muir Laws and the Wild
Wonder Foundation, our group, welcomes all ages and experience levels. No artistic skill required!
Why Join?

Deepen your connection to the natural world
Boost curiosity, mindfulness, and appreciation for the environment
Reduce stress through quiet observation
Learn about plants, animals, and landscapes in a creative, personal way
Document your outdoor experiences in a meaningful way

What to Bring:

A notebook or sketchbook
Pens or pencils
Optional: colored pencils, markers, binoculars, magnifying glass

Led by Jonah Salsich, a Westerly resident and experienced elementary teacher of over 18 years, who is also an amateur naturalist and artist. After discovering the power of nature journaling, he has blended his passions for teaching, observing, and creating into a practice that sparks wonder and connection. With experience in both journaling and leading nature journaling workshops, he is excited to invite others on this rewarding journey.
This is a relaxed, no-pressure group. We’re here to share inspiration, spend time outdoors, and grow our sense of wonder together—one page at a time.
Parking is available in the main parking lot at Barlow Nature Preserve, with overflow parking in the field behind the outbuildings to the east (up the farm road).
Cost: $10 for WLT members and $25 for non-members. Jonah is generously donating a portion of the proceeds to the Westerly Land Trust to support our conservation efforts.
This workshop is geared toward ages 18 and up, but don’t be afraid to channel your inner child, come curious!
This event is part of our Nature Journaling Series. Prior to this event, we are offering a FREE introduction to nature journaling on September 6 open to all ages. Nature Journaling Workshop 2 will be held on October 4.

Date Night Picnic hosted by Echo Rock Flowers (Dahlia Focus)
2025-09-20 16:00 - 17:30 | Barlow Nature Preserve, 449 Westerly Bradford Rd, Westerly, RI 02891, USA
Join Echo Rock Flowers for a magical date night amongst the flowers!
Click Here for More Info & to Sign Up!
If you’re looking for a unique date night – a quiet escape where you can connect with your loved one – then keep reading.
Imagine this: you come to the farm and upon entering, you are offered a cold drink and your own picnic basket that has already been lovingly filled with tasty treats. You take in the beauty around as you choose your own table amongst the rows of flowers. At your table is a pre-picked bucket of flowers, 2 vases, and simple directions on how to make your own arrangement. Together you work on creating your floral designs as you sip your libation, snack on light refreshments and enjoy the serenity of the farm in the glow of a Summer evening.
Your Date Night includes:

1 drink per person (for 21+ your options include IPA, Light Lager, Rosé or white wine)
Infused-water station & seltzers for nonalcoholic options
2 Vases + Flowers for you to design with and take home. If you are a couple and/or family, perhaps you keep one arrangement at home and give the other away. If you are friends joining us, then you each get your own!
Refreshments for 2 packed in a picnic basket (*basket not included to take home, allergies accommodated – please list during checkout). Options include, but are not limited to – a charcuterie box, fresh fruit and veggies, croissants with whipped butter and a couple of sweet treats.

Fall Equinox Yoga on the Farm
2025-09-22 18:00 - 19:00 | Winnapaug Farm Preserve, 117 Shore Road, Westerly, RI, 02891, United States, 117 Shore Rd, Westerly, RI, 02891, United States
Join us for a special outdoor yoga class with Krystal Rose from BarreCoast as we celebrate the fall equinox!

Bring your yoga mat, another mat or sheet/blanket to place underneath, and a bottle of water.
Winnapaug Farm Preserve is located off of Shore Road in Westerly. Take a left off Shore from Winnapaug Road. You will see the field ahead to your right. Approximately 1/4 mile down you will drive through the red gate and park where cars are lining up. You’ll be a few steps from where class will be held!

Advanced Registration Required.

Westerly Land Trust members, contact Erika Lebling
elebling@westerlylandtrust.org for reduced price registration of $10

CLICK TO REGISTER FOR OUTDOOR FALL EQUINOX YOGA

Trail Blazing for Girl Scouts: Cadettes, Seniors, Ambassadors
2025-09-28 10:00 - 12:00 | Wahaneeta Preserve, 118 Moorehouse Road, Westerly, RI, 02891, United States
Lace up your hiking boots and get ready to explore the great outdoors! This exciting, hands-on program helps Girl Scouts work towards or earn their Trail Adventure and Environmental Stewardship badges by diving deep into the world of trail reading, tree identification, and native plant knowledge. Girl Scouts will learn essential hiking skills, including how to read trail maps, follow trail markers, and plan safe and enjoyable hikes. Along the way, they’ll discover how to identify common trees and local plant species using field guides and observation techniques. With a focus on outdoor safety, environmental awareness, and nature appreciation, this program encourages scouts to become confident, capable stewards of the natural world. $10 Per Participant, open to Cadettes, Seniors, and Ambassadors.
Click Here to Sign Up

Nature Journaling: Workshop 2
2025-10-04 09:30 - 11:30 | Wahaneeta Preserve, 118 Moorehouse Road, Westerly, RI, 02891, United States
Slow down. Look closer. Connect with nature.

Discover the joy of nature journaling—a fun, informal way to explore the outdoors using words, pictures, and numbers. Inspired by the practices of John Muir Laws and the Wild
Wonder Foundation, our group, welcomes all ages and experience levels. No artistic skill required!
Why Join?

Deepen your connection to the natural world
Boost curiosity, mindfulness, and appreciation for the environment
Reduce stress through quiet observation
Learn about plants, animals, and landscapes in a creative, personal way
Document your outdoor experiences in a meaningful way

What to Bring:

A notebook or sketchbook
Pens or pencils
Optional: colored pencils, markers, binoculars, magnifying glass

Led by Jonah Salsich, a Westerly resident and experienced elementary teacher of over 18 years, who is also an amateur naturalist and artist. After discovering the power of nature journaling, he has blended his passions for teaching, observing, and creating into a practice that sparks wonder and connection. With experience in both journaling and leading nature journaling workshops, he is excited to invite others on this rewarding journey.
This is a relaxed, no-pressure group. We’re here to share inspiration, spend time outdoors, and grow our sense of wonder together—one page at a time.
Parking is available in the main parking lot at Barlow Nature Preserve, with overflow parking in the field behind the outbuildings to the east (up the farm road).
Cost: $10 for WLT members and $25 for non-members. Jonah is generously donating a portion of the proceeds to the Westerly Land Trust to support our conservation efforts.
This workshop is geared toward ages 18 and up, but don’t be afraid to channel your inner child, come curious!
This event is part of our Nature Journaling Series. Prior to this event, we are offering a FREE introduction to nature journaling on September 6 open to all ages. Nature Journaling Workshop 1 will be held on September 20.

The Microgreen Experience
2025-10-05 10:00 - 12:00 | Barlow Nature Preserve, 449 Westerly Bradford Road, Westerly, RI, 02891, United States
Dig into the vibrant world of microgreens – quick to grow, full of flavor, and fun to eat!

Whether you’re a food lover, curious gardener, or looking for easy ways to eat healthier, this hands-on workshop will introduce you to the small but mighty world of microgreens. These nutrient-packed greens grow in just 7–10 days, making them the perfect crop for quick results and year-round indoor gardening—even through the winter months when outdoor growing slows down.
Hosted by the Westerly Land Trust (WLT), The Microgreen Experience is led by expert grower Kain Bonneau, who will walk you through everything you need to start growing at home. You’ll learn how to choose seeds, prepare your growing space, and care for your microgreens from seed to harvest.
This session goes beyond just growing—we’re diving into flavor, too! You’ll get to taste a variety of fresh microgreens and enjoy a live recipe demonstration, featuring easy and creative ways to incorporate microgreens into your meals.
Whether you’re a total beginner or an experienced gardener looking to extend your growing season indoors, this class offers something for everyone.
What You’ll Learn:
• The basics of microgreens and their impressive health benefits• How to grow microgreens indoors in just 7–10 days• How to choose the right seeds, soil, and containers• Tips for growing year-round—even in winter• How to maintain your greens and get the best harvest• Creative ways to use microgreens in the kitchen
What You’ll Get:
• A complete microgreens grow kit (includes seeds, soil, and containers)• Hands-on planting experience• A tasting of microgreen varieties• A recipe demo and food sampling—with ideas you can use at home• A fun, educational experience with fellow food and plant lovers• The confidence to grow fresh, flavorful food right on your windowsill
Come ready to plant, taste, and learn! Spaces are limited, registration is required—sign up now to reserve your spot and grow kit.
Parking is available in the main parking lot at Barlow Nature Preserve, with overflow parking in the field behind the outbuildings to the east (up the farm road).
Workshop is $30 per WLT member and $40 for nonmember, which Kain has generously pledged to donate a portion of the proceeds to WLT.
