Barrington Land Trust

Student Stewardship Team - Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve
2024-11-03 13:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve
If you are not a registered member and would like to join, visit our Student Stewardship page for more information.
On Sunday, Nov. 3, from 1-3 pm, we’ll be working at Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve doing trail maintenance in preparation for our annual Day After Thanksgiving Walk.
Wear long pants, socks, shoes, and your Land Trust hat (Land Trust T-shirt optional) and appropriate sweatshirt or coat, depending on the weather. Bring a water bottle!
REGISTER FOR THE EVENT
Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve is located on Sowams Road in Barrington. The entrance lies between 461 Sowams Road and 475 Sowams Road. You can park in the grassy area indicated on the map. If you get lost or will be late, call/text me at 508-733-2443.

Student Stewardship Team - Event Support
2024-11-06 18:30 - 19:30 | Barrington Public Library, 281 County Rd,, Barrington, RI, 02806, United States
Visible microplastics found in the sediment at the most polluted site from the study near Providence, Rhode Island. (Photo by COASTL team member Victoria Fulfer)
If you are not a registered member and would like to join, visit our Student Stewardship page for more information.
We’re looking for two or three people to help with check in from 6:30 to 7:15 pm at this Learning Series event on Microplastics at the Barrington Public Library on Wednesday, Nov. 6. You’re welcome to stay for the event if you’re interested. The speaker is URI Professor JP Walsh.
REGISTER FOR THE EVENT

Learning Series: Microplastics in our Environment
2024-11-06 19:00 - 20:30 | Barrington Public Library, 281 County Rd,, Barrington, RI, 02806, United States
Decades ago, beach walkers scoured the sand for sea glass in a rainbow of colors. Now, beaches, salt marshes and our oceans are more likely to be infused with tiny bits of plastic. University of Rhode Island researchers in the COAST Lab (COASTL), led by Professor J.P. Walsh in the Graduate School of Oceanography, estimate that the top 2 inches of the floor of Narragansett Bay now contain more than 1,000 tons of microplastics. That buildup has occurred in just the last 10 to 20 years.
Professor J.P. Walsh
On Wednesday, Nov. 6, at 7 pm, Prof. J.P. Walsh and other members of the COASTL team will join the Land Trust Learning Series to discuss their findings about microplastics in our environment, including research conducted over the last year at Mussachuck Beach, a Land Trust property in Barrington. The presentation will take place in the Salem Family Auditorium at the Barrington Public Library.
REGISTER FOR THE EVENT
Microplastics are small plastic particles 5 centimeters or smaller. The smallest of these can’t be seen without a powerful microscope; the largest are plastic production pellets called “nurdles” about the size of a pea. Microplastic pollution comes from runoff, littering of single-use plastic items, wastewater treatment facilities, shipping, industrial plastic production, and fisheries. However, it’s estimated that only 1% of that marine plastic remains in the water column. Most microplastics are eventually deposited on shorelines and in marine sediment.
With more than 16 trillion microplastic particles trapped in the top layer of Narragansett Bay’s sediment, the bay is serving as a filter for plastic pollution. This trapping has negative consequences, and may cause behavioral changes in mammals, but might also point the way to potential for efficient removal. Coastal habitats are more easily accessible than the open ocean, making clean-up efforts more feasible.
Listen to Prof. Walsh speak about his research at Mussachuck Grove in December 2023.
Visible microplastics found in the sediment at the most polluted site from the study near Providence, Rhode Island. (Photo by COASTL team member Victoria Fulfer)
COASTL strives to determine how materials move and accumulate along shorelines and in the sea. Under the direction of J.P Walsh and in partnership with others, COASTL uses a combination of research methods including geographic information systems (GIS), sediment coring, seafloor mapping, process measurements and laboratory analyses to understand coastal and ocean issues and processes. Studies focus on sedimentary systems, from river mouths to the edge of ocean basins, and from tropical mangroves to high-latitude fjords, and have relevance to biological, chemical, physical and human dynamics. While some projects may only involve a single student examining a local salt marsh, other investigations require many scientists on oceanographic research expeditions.

About J.P. Walsh

J.P. Walsh is a professor of oceanography and a geological oceanographer with a doctorate in oceanography from the University of Washington, a master of science in marine environmental science from Stony Brook University, and a bachelor’s degree in geology from Colgate University. Before joining URI’s Graduate School of Oceanography, he was a professor at East Carolina University and program head for coastal processes at the Coastal Studies Institute. His research focuses on coastal sedimentary processes and related aspects, such as coastal erosion, pollutant fate and sand resources for beach nourishment. He uses sediment characteristics, oceanographic measurements, GIS and geophysical methods to understand the processes shaping shorelines and the seafloor.
J.P. Walsh
Over his career, Walsh has conducted research around the world including in the Philippines, France, New Zealand, Antarctica, and around the U.S. He is well known for his research investigating how sediments are eroded, transported and accumulate along coasts and in the ocean. This research is important to understanding geochemical cycling, evaluating ecosystem changes, defining coastal hazards and managing natural resources. He has recently spearheaded efforts to measure microplastics on the shoreline and seabed of Narragansett Bay, and he is working on several projects examining coastal change and resilience in New England.

Student Stewardship Team - Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve
2024-11-23 10:00 - 12:00 | Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve
If you are not a registered member and would like to join, visit our Student Stewardship page for more information.
On Saturday, Nov. 23, from 10 am to noon, we’ll be working at Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve doing trail maintenance in preparation for our annual Day After Thanksgiving Walk.
Wear long pants, socks, shoes, and your Land Trust hat (Land Trust T-shirt optional) and appropriate sweatshirt or coat, depending on the weather. Bring a water bottle!
REGISTER FOR THE EVENT
Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve is located on Sowams Road in Barrington. The entrance lies between 461 Sowams Road and 475 Sowams Road. You can park in the grassy area indicated on the map. If you get lost or will be late, call/text me at 508-733-2443.

Student Stewardship Team - Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve
2024-11-24 13:00 - 15:00 | Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve
This event is for registered members of the Land Trust’s Student Stewardship Team ONLY.
If you are not a registered member and would like to join, visit our Student Stewardship page for more information.
On Sunday, Nov. 24, from 1 pm to 3 pm, we’ll be working at Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve removing debris from the trail in preparation for our annual Day After Thanksgiving Walk.
REGISTER FOR THE STEWARDSHIP EVENT
Boots and warm clothing are recommended, as some areas are wet. Bring a water bottle!
Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve is located on Sowams Road in Barrington. The entrance lies between 461 Sowams Road and 475 Sowams Road. You can park in the grassy area indicated on the map. If you get lost or will be late, call/text Cindy at 508-733-2443.

Student Stewardship Team - Event Support
2024-11-29 10:30 - 13:00 | Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve
If you are not a registered member and would like to join, visit our Student Stewardship page for more information.
On Friday, Nov. 29, from 10:30 to 1 pm — the day after Thanksgiving – we’ll be helping to guide the public through Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve during our annual Day After Thanksgiving Walk. Don’t worry if you haven’t been there before. We’ll position you at a waystation where you can point people in the right direction and tell them about your work with the Student Stewardship Team.
Wear long pants, socks, shoes, and your Land Trust hat and Land Trust T-shirt optional, and appropriate sweatshirt or coat, depending on the weather. Bring a water bottle!
REGISTER FOR THE EVENT
Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve is located on Sowams Road in Barrington. The entrance lies between 461 Sowams Road and 475 Sowams Road. You can park in the grassy area indicated on the map. If you get lost or will be late, call/text me at 508-733-2443.

Day After Thanksgiving Walk - Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve
2024-11-29 11:00 - 13:00 | Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve
On Friday Nov. 29, between 11 am and 1 pm, Land Trust volunteers will be stationed at waypoints to guide visitors through the Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve, a 32-acre expanse of field, forest and wetland between Sowams Road and the Palmer River.

REGISTER FOR THE EVENT

Dogs are not allowed because of the birds and animals that make this wildlife preserve their home. You may arrive anytime between 11 am and 1 pm. Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve is located on Sowams Road, 0.7 miles north of Sowams Elementary School. The walk takes approximately one hour over wet and moderate terrain. Wear boots! Severe weather cancels the event. Parking is available on site.

Be aware that the primary bridge which connected the two sides of the property was washed out during a king high tide storm two years ago. Good news – we are now in the process of rebuilding, with the support of volunteers from Roger Williams University’s chapter of Engineers Without Borders. You will be able to walk both sides of the property, but you won’t be able to walk it as a loop trail.
Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve was acquired by the Land Trust in 1991 through a combination of Rhode Island and Barrington Open Space bonds and charitable donations to the Barrington Land Conservation Trust. Due to the sensitive native plants and animals on the property, it is not generally open to the public. The Land Trust hosts several guided walks each year to enable the public to experience the property, which has been preserved as a wilderness reserve in perpetuity.

Stewardship Event - Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve
2024-12-14 10:00 - 12:00 | Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve
On Saturday, Dec. 14, from 10 am to noon, the Student Stewardship Team will work together with the Tuesday Trails Team at Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve. We need many hands to help remove debris from the washed out boardwalk near the marsh. We have cut the boardwalk into pieces that can be hand carried or transported by wheelbarrow or cart.
Dress for the weather and wear waterproof boots. Adults – if you have a wheelbarrow or cart you can bring, that would help! Bring work gloves if you have them. Gloves will also be available onsite.
REGISTER FOR THE EVENT
Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve is located on Sowams Road in Barrington. The entrance lies between 461 Sowams Road and 475 Sowams Road. You can park in the grassy area indicated on the map. If you get lost or will be late, call/text me at 508-733-2443.

Winter Walk at Sowams Woods
2024-12-15 15:00 - 16:00 | Sowams Woods, South Lake Drive, Barrington, Rhode Island, 02806
Fill up your cup with fresh air and sunlight on a Winter Walk at Sowams Woods on Sunday, Dec. 15, at 3 pm. All ages are welcome. Since it’s cold outside, we’ll keep moving at a moderate pace to stay warm as we enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. Round-trip, the distance is about two miles. The walk will be finished in under an hour.
REGISTER FOR THE WALK
Sowams Woods is a 12-acre nature preserve in Barrington, RI. We’ll park in the dirt parking area near Echo Lake at the juncture of South Lake Drive and North Lake Drive (see picture below – where red dot marks Sowams Woods). Enter North Lake Drive or South Lake Drive via Middle Highway and cross over the bike path to access the parking area.

Sunrise Walk at Osamequin Nature Preserve
2025-01-04 07:00 - 08:00 | Osamequin Nature Preserve, 1580 Rte. 114 North, Barrington, Rhode Island, 02806
Early risers – this one’s for you!
Launch into the new year with a brisk sunrise walk on Saturday, Jan. 4 at 7 am at Osamequin Nature Preserve. We’ll experience the quiet of the forest and Hundred Acre Cove as the sun slips above the horizon at 7:12 am.
Dress for the weather and bring your camera to capture the beauty of first light. All ages are welcome. The walk will last under an hour and we’ll keep moving at a moderate pace to keep warm.
REGISTER FOR THE WALK
Osamequin Nature Preserve is a 42-acre property located on the Wampanoag Trail, bordering Hundred Acre Cove in Barrington, RI. Visit the Osamequin Nature Preserve page for more information, including map and GPS coordinates.
We’ll meet in the parking area at the entrance to Osamequin Nature Preserve, which is located on the northbound side of Rte. 114, shortly after you pass Walker Farm on your right. Round trip, the walking distance is about 2 miles.

Clean Up - Osamequin Nature Preserve
2025-01-26 13:00 - 15:00 | Osamequin Nature Preserve, 1580 Rte. 114 North, Barrington, Rhode Island, 02806
Winter is a great time to collect litter that can be hard to see when the leaves are out and the plants are in full bloom. Help us keep Osamequin Nature Preserve pristine by joining our clean up on Sunday, Jan. 26.
The clean up will begin at 1 pm and end at 3 pm, but we welcome you to come even if you can only stay for an hour. Many hands make light work! When you’re finished, you can enjoy a self-guided walk of the preserve. Maps will be provided. All ages are welcome; parents must be responsible for the safety of their own children.
REGISTER FOR THE CLEAN UP
We’ll notify registrants if the clean up is rescheduled due to inclement weather.
Osamequin Nature Preserve is located on the northbound side of Rte. 114, approximately one mile north of the intersection of County Road and Massassoit Ave, in Barrington, RI. There is a parking lot on the right hand side at the entrance to the preserve.
We will provide trash bags and trash-picking tools (as supplies last). Please bring your own gloves. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy, water-resistant footwear.
If you have any questions, email cindyelder@blct.org.
Thank you for helping to keep our natural places clean for wildlife and humans!

Young Explorers' Adventure at Sowams Woods
2025-02-26 10:00 - 11:00 | Sowams Woods, South Lake Drive, Barrington, Rhode Island, 02806
Join us for an adventure especially designed for our youngest explorers!
Bring the whole family on Wed., Feb. 26, at 10 am for a winter walk through Sowams Woods, a special place where animals make their home in the forest on the shore of Echo Lake.
REGISTER FOR THE EVENT
We’ll run, jump, sing songs and go on a scavenger hunt for nature’s treasures. The adventure will last about an hour.
Sowams Woods is a 12-acred nature preserve accessible from a parking area at the juncture of South Lake Drive (off Middle Highway) and North Lake Drive in Barrington, RI.
Bring your camera to get some memorable family photos. This event is free and open to all, so invite your friends, playmates and grandparents!

Learning Series - Climate Change: Seeing the Forest through the Trees
2025-03-04 19:00 - 20:30 | Barrington Public Library, 281 County Rd,, Barrington, RI, 02806, United States
Climate change is full of paradoxes. The need for action is urgent, and yet, true success is a long game.
Heather Goldstone, Chief Communication Officer of the Woodwell Climate Research Center, kicks off our 2025 Learning Series with a big-picture look at how we talk and think about climate change. This free event will take place on Tuesday, March 4, at 7 pm, in the Salem Family Auditorium at the Barrington Public Library.
REGISTER FOR THE EVENT
The accumulation of greenhouse gases is supercharging both droughts and downpours, fires and floods. It is a global phenomenon with intensely local impacts. This talk will address common questions and misconceptions about climate change and present a realistic, empowering framing of our climate challenge—the scope of the problem and the kinds of solutions we need.
About Heather Goldstone
Heather Goldstone leads Woodwell Climate Research Center’s communications activities, bringing the rich stories of Woodwell Climate scientists to diverse public audiences. She draws on her extensive experience as both a scientist and a journalist, and her passion for melding data and narrative in climate change stories that build awareness and inspire action.
She came to Woodwell Climate from WGBH, where she founded and hosted a weekly science-focused radio show, Living Lab Radio. Previously, she wrote the Climatide blog about coastal communities facing climate change. Her reporting on science and the environment has appeared in outlets ranging from Cape Cod Times and Commercial Fishery News to NPR’s Morning Edition, The Takeaway, and PBS NewsHour. In 2014, she was recognized for the breadth of her work with WGBH’s Margret and Hans Rey/Curious George Producer award.
As a child, Heather fell in love with the ocean and went on to pursue a career in marine research before turning her energies to science communication. She serves on the Woods Hole Sea Grant Marine Outreach Guidance Group and Cape Cod Climate Change Collaborative Advisory Committee, and she frequently teaches or mentors students in communication skills.
Thanks to our 2025 Land Trust Learning Series Sponsors!

Meridian Custom Homes ~ Providence
Charles E. Millard, Inc. General Contractors – Bristol
PODS Swimming – East Providence
Rosemary’s School of Dance – Warren, Bristol, Rehoboth
Jaffe Orthodontics – Barrington & Portsmouth

Student Stewardship Team - Clean Up at Veterans Memorial Park
2025-03-15 09:00 - 11:00 | Veterans Park, West Street, Barrington, Rhode Island, 02806
This event is for members of our Student Stewardship Team for high school students ages 14 to 18. If you are not a registered member and would like to join, visit our Student Stewardship page for more information.
On Saturday, March 15, from 9-11 am, we’ll be picking up litter at Veterans Memorial Park.
REGISTER FOR THE EVENT
Dress for the weather and wear sturdy, water-resistant footwear. Bring a water bottle!
We’ll meet at the parking lot on West St., across from the YMCA (see map).

Thanks for participating!

Guided Walk: Veterans Memorial Park
2025-03-16 13:00 - 14:00 | Veterans Park, West Street, Barrington, Rhode Island, 02806
Discover Barrington’s town-owned Veterans Memorial Park on a free guided walk by Land Trust Executive Director Cindy Elder on Sunday, March 16, at 1 pm. All ages are welcome.
REGISTER FOR THE WALK
We’ll meet in the parking area on West Street in Barrington (see map below – between the YMCA and the East Bay Bike Path).
Established in 1946 as a public recreation and conservation area by the Town of Barrington, the park was named to honor veterans. The park land stretches over 230 acres, including the 84-acre pond named Brickyard because this was the site of a local brick-making industry started in 1720 by Matthew Watson and continued until 1943.
The historic Watson cemetery where Matthew Watson is buried is located within the southeastern boundary of the park. The excavated clay beds eventually filled with water from underground springs forming the beautiful pond. Connected to
Narragansett Bay by a canal, the area is an important herring spawning ground.

Student Stewardship Team - Cleanup at Barrington Middle School Pollinator Garden
2025-03-18 15:30 - 17:30 | Barrington Middle School, 261 Middle Highway, Barrington, RI, 02806
This event is for members of our Student Stewardship Team for high school students ages 14 to 18. If you are not a registered member and would like to join, visit our Student Stewardship page for more information.
On Tuesday, March 18, from 3:30 to 5:30 pm, we’ll be picking up litter behind the Barrington Middle School near the pollinator garden we built last year. We may also begin spring maintenance of the garden.
REGISTER FOR THE EVENT
Dress for the weather and wear sturdy, water-resistant footwear. Bring a water bottle!
We’ll meet in the parking area in the back of the Barrington Middle School, 261 Middle Highway.
Thanks for participating!

Vernal Pool Evening at Sowams Woods
2025-03-26 18:30 - 20:30 | Sowams Woods, South Lake Drive, Barrington, Rhode Island, 02806
This Pseudacris crucifer, more commonly known as a spring peeper, is one of the fragile creatures that depends on vernal pools for habitat and food.
THIS EVENT IS FULLY BOOKED. TO BE PLACED ON THE WAITING LIST, EMAIL CINDYELDER@BLCT.ORG.
When spring arrives, amphibians will be on the move! Join Mary Gannon and Abigail Clark from RIDEM’s Division of Fish and Wildlife for an evening walk to a vernal pool at Sowams Woods on Wed., March 26, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
In the quiet of evening, we’ll be listening and looking for wood frogs, spring peepers, toads and salamanders. You’ll learn about RIDEM Division of Fish and Wildlife conservation projects aimed at helping our state’s amphibians, as well as ways you can get involved to help right in your own backyard.
Participants will not be entering any wetlands and will be staying on the trail together as a group. This program, offered in partnership with the Barrington Land Conservation Trust, is free to attend, but registration is required.
Abigail Clark and Mary Gannon from RIDEM’s Department of Fish & Wildlife will lead the Vernal Pool Evening at Sowams Woods.
The date and time of this educational event are subject to change based on temperature and amphibian activity. If we have ice on the pools, we will postpone. Rain is welcome though — the amphibians love it!
Speakers
Mary Gannon is the Wildlife Outreach Coordinator for the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management’s Division of Fish and Wildlife. Her work centers around spreading awareness of State wildlife conservation projects and educating Rhode Islanders of all ages about our state’s unique critters. In her free time, you can find Mary enjoying time with her family, tending her veggie garden, and restoring her boring suburban lawn to a vibrant native plant oasis for wildlife.
Abigail Clark is the Wildlife Outreach and Volunteer Technical Assistant for RIDEM Division of Fish and Wildlife. Abby is an outdoor educator who is passionate about connecting Rhode Islanders with the environment. When not at work Abby can be found spending time with her family, shuttling her children to sports, reading or crafting.

Student Stewardship Team - Cleanup - East Bay Bike Path
2025-03-31 13:00 - 15:00 | East Bay Bike Path – Shaw’s Parking Lot, 186 County Rd, Barrington, RI, 02806, United States
This event is for members of our Student Stewardship Team for high school students ages 14 to 18. If you are not a registered member and would like to join, visit our Student Stewardship page for more information.
On Monday, March 31, from 1 -3 pm, we’ll be picking up litter along the East Bay Bike Path.
REGISTER FOR THE EVENT
Dress for the weather and wear sturdy, water-resistant footwear. Bring a water bottle!
We’ll meet in the Shaw’s parking lot (186 County Rd) along the area adjacent to the bike path.
Thanks for participating!

Learning Series: The Climate Future Film Festival
2025-04-06 13:00 - 16:00 | Barrington Public Library, 281 County Rd,, Barrington, RI, 02806, United States
Ten films from four continents in two hours give expression to what we’re feeling—hope and cynicism, climate denial and climate grief, rage and heartbreak, resilience and resolve—and offer paths toward climate empowerment. Join us on Sunday, April 6, at 1 pm for a free screening followed by a discussion in the Salem Family Auditorium at the Barrington Public Library.
REGISTER FOR THE EVENT
WATCH THE TRAILER
America’s leading voice on climate, Bill McKibben, co-founder of 350.org and Third Act, is the Honorary Judge and launches the Festival in a videotaped introduction. The following movies, including one produced in Rhode Island, will be aired.

Thanks to our 2025 Land Trust Learning Series Sponsors!

Meridian Custom Homes ~ Providence
Charles E. Millard, Inc. General Contractors – Bristol
Tiffany’s Salon & Spa – Barrington
PODS Swimming – East Providence
Rosemary’s School of Dance – Warren, Bristol, Rehoboth
Jaffe Orthodontics – Barrington & Portsmouth

Learning Series: Stormwater Management in a Coastal Town
2025-04-07 19:00 - 20:30 | Barrington Public Library, 281 County Rd,, Barrington, RI, 02806, United States
Heavy rains and flooding are now common events in our region. As a coastal area already coping with rising sea levels, the challenge of stormwater management adds another layer of complexity. What solutions are available and how can we, as a community, limit the damage from inland and coastal flooding?
REGISTER FOR THE EVENT
We’ve invited a panel of experts to examine the issue of stormwater management from many perspectives. Join us on Monday, April 7, at 7 pm at the Barrington Public Library in the Salem Family Auditorium for a presentation followed by a question-and-answer session. The panel will be moderated by Cindy Elder, Executive Director of the Land Trust.
Meet the Panel
Michelle West
Michelle West, P.E. is a Senior Associate with Horsley Witten Group. She has more than 20 years of professional experience with watershed planning, green stormwater designs, natural resource restoration, and public outreach. With a background in both engineering and natural resources, she is passionate about using her skills to restore the natural world while improving the human experience.
Brandon Blanchard
Brandon Blanchard is a Vice President and Civil Engineer with Pare Corporation, based in Lincoln, RI. He has been with Pare for 22 years and leads water, wastewater, and stormwater projects within the firm’s Environmental Engineering division. He is a registered Professional Engineer in Rhode Island as well as Massachusetts and Connecticut. Brandon has a B.S. in Civil Engineering from Lehigh University and a M.S. in Environmental Engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute. Brandon resides in Barrington with his wife and two kids.
Rebecca Reeves
Rebecca Reeves is the Education and Outreach Manager with the Stormwater Innovation Center (SIC)/Audubon Society of Rhode Island. Working in collaboration with the SIC’s many partner organizations, she is responsible for professional training and event coordination, school programming, and community outreach.
Sara Sampieri Horvet
Sara Sampieri Horvet is a Research Associate and the Analytical Laboratory Manager of the Coastal Systems Program at the UMass Dartmouth School for Marine Science and Technology. Her research focuses on water quality and the effects of nutrient enrichment on estuaries and freshwater ponds. Sara has been involved in numerous stormwater management projects across Southeastern Massachusetts. She also serves on the board of the Barrington Land Conservation Trust and volunteers with the Barrington Terrapin Conservation Project. Sara is dedicated to protecting
Herb Durfee
and restoring natural habitats so her children and future generations can enjoy the same beautiful places.
Herb Durfee is Barrington’s Director of Planning, Building & Resilience. A native of Vermont, he has held several positions in municipal government, including town planner, community development, and town manager. Before joining Barrington’s town government in 2024, he served as the town planner for Warren, RI.

Thanks to our 2025 Land Trust Learning Series Sponsors!

Meridian Custom Homes ~ Providence
Charles E. Millard, Inc. General Contractors – Bristol
Tiffany’s Salon & Spa – Barrington
PODS Swimming – East Providence
Rosemary’s School of Dance – Warren, Bristol, Rehoboth
Jaffe Orthodontics – Barrington & Portsmouth

Art in Nature: Nature Journaling Walk with Allison Wilbur
2025-04-14 14:00 - 16:00 | Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve
Join artist Allison Wilbur for a free monthly walk and Nature Journaling session. Our first session will take place on Monday, April 14, from 2 to 4 pm at Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve.
REGISTER FOR THE EVENT
Each month we will explore a different Land Trust property to improve our powers of observation and keep a record of the changing seasons.
You’ll be invited to share ideas on what to enter into your journal and encourage each other as you explore and document the natural world.
Each participant should bring their own journal and pens, pencils, watercolors or whatever supplies fit your practice. This group is focused on sharing of ideas and approaches (not artistic instruction).
This event is open to all ages (as long as children are accompanied by an adult).
In the event of rain, we will meet at the Residential Properties room on the second floor of the Barrington Public Library. Cindy Elder, Executive Director of the Land Trust, will share a slide show of Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve. We can share any nature journals we have and talk about journaling ideas and techniques.
About Allison Wilbur
Allison Wilbur is a quilt artist who focuses on the natural world and women’s empowerment. Living on the edge of one of the Barrington Land Conservation Trust properties, she enjoys daily walks in the field and often records the passing of the seasons in her journal. Allison has recently shared her work at the Audubon Society and the Blithewold Gallery in Bristol. You can learn more about Allison and her work at AllisonWilburQuilts.com.

Student Stewardship Team - St. Andrews Farm
2025-04-16 13:00 - 15:00 | St. Andrews Farm, 101 Middle Highway, Barrington, RI, 02806
This event is for members of our Student Stewardship Team for high school students ages 14 to 18. If you are not a registered member and would like to join, visit our Student Stewardship page for more information.
On Wednesday, April 16, from 1 to 3 pm, we’ll be removing woody invasive plants at St. Andrews Farm, 101 Middle Highway, Barrington.
REGISTER FOR THE EVENT
Dress for the weather and wear sturdy footwear. Wear your Land Trust hat and/or t-shirt if you have one. Bring a water bottle!

Student Stewardship Team - Barrington Middle School Pollinator Garden
2025-04-18 09:00 - 11:00 | Barrington Middle School, 261 Middle Highway, Barrington, RI, 02806
This event is for members of our Student Stewardship Team for high school students ages 14 to 18. If you are not a registered member and would like to join, visit our Student Stewardship page for more information.
On Friday, April 18, we’ll be doing spring maintenance at the Barrington Middle School pollinator garden, located behind the school, 261 Middle Highway, Barrington.
REGISTER FOR THE EVENT
Dress for the weather and wear sturdy footwear. Wear your Land Trust hat and/or t-shirt if you have one. Bring a water bottle!

Guided Walk: PIC-WIL Nature Preserve
2025-04-19 10:00 - 11:00 | Pic-Wil Nature Preserve, Washington Rd., Barrington, RI, United States
Join us for a walk to PIC-WIL Nature Preserve, a 24-acre preserve of forest, field, salt marsh and coastal dunes on the east shore of the Providence River in Barrington.
The terrain is gentle but may be wet in places. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy footwear. You may wish to bring a walking stick or poles to assist you when crossing wet areas.
The walk will last about an hour. All ages are welcome. Advance registration is required.
REGISTER FOR THE WALK
Once home to a bottling facility owned by Deep Water Rock Company, the property was donated to the Nature Conservancy by Catherine Picerelli in December of 1986 and deeded to the Barrington Land Conservation Trust in 1987, to be preserved in perpetuity as a nature preserve.
The donation was made in memory of the families of Peter J. Picerelli and Clifford M. Wilson: thus the name “PIC-WIL.” Although the property is generally closed to the public due to its status as a nature preserve, the Land Trust opens PIC-WIL periodically for guided walks.
The forest includes a wide variety of deciduous trees. The property is home to deer, coyote, fox, weasels, squirrels, chipmunks and rabbits.
Purple Martins nest here in late spring and summer. Common birds of the marsh and tidal creeks include Mallards, American Black Ducks, Snowy and Great Egrets, Green-backed Herons, Great Blue Herons, and Osprey. Sharp-tailed Sparrows, Belted Kingfishers and various shorebirds are other likely visitors of the wetland.

Nesting birds of the forest and its shrub border include Song Sparrow, Carolina Wren, Blue Jay, Flicker, Cardinal, Goldfinch, Robin, Red-eyed Vireo, Mockingbird, Catbird, Brown Thrasher and others.
Three plants at PIC-WIL have “special interest” status in the state of Rhode Island: Creeping Spikerush (Eleocharis rostellata), Maritime Seablite (Suaeda maritima) and Robust Bulrush (Scirpus robustus).

Student Stewardship Team - St. Andrews Farm
2025-04-27 13:00 - 15:00 | St. Andrews Farm, 101 Middle Highway, Barrington, RI, 02806
This event is for members of our Student Stewardship Team for high school students ages 14 to 18. If you are not a registered member and would like to join, visit our Student Stewardship page for more information.
On Sunday, April 27, from 1 to 3 pm, we’ll be removing woody invasive plants and doing trail maintenance at St. Andrews Farm, 101 Middle Highway, Barrington.
REGISTER FOR THE EVENT
Dress for the weather and wear sturdy footwear. Wear your Land Trust hat and/or t-shirt if you have one. Bring a water bottle!

Town Resilience Garden Work Day
2025-05-06 09:00 - 11:00 | Barrington Town Hall, 283 County Road, Barrington, RI, 02806
This event is for volunteers who have registered to participate in the care of the Town’s Resilience Garden at Town Center. If you haven’t registered yet and would like to participate, you may register here and download the Town’s release of responsibility here.
On Tuesday, May 6, we’ll be doing general care and maintenance of the new Resilience Garden at Town Center.
REGISTER FOR THE WORK DAY
Please dress for the weather. Bring work gloves and your favorite weeder (hori hori, trowel, scratcher, cobrahead, etc.). We recommend you bring a water bottle.
Barrington Town Center is located at 283 County Road. Please park in the main lot behind Town Hall (not in Tapin’s lot), and walk down to the garden area, which is next to the entrance to Town Center next to the pond.

Student Stewardship Team - Event Support
2025-05-06 18:30 - 19:15 | Barrington Public Library, 281 County Rd,, Barrington, RI, 02806, United States
If you are not a registered member and would like to join, visit our Student Stewardship page for more information.
We’re looking for two or three people to help with check in from 6:30 to 7:15 pm at this Learning Series event, “Between Moon Tides: Saving the Saltmarsh Sparrow.” You’re welcome to stay for the event if you’re interested.
REGISTER FOR THE EVENT

Learning Series: Between Moon Tides - Saving the Saltmarsh Sparrow
2025-05-06 19:00 - 20:30 | Barrington Public Library, 281 County Rd,, Barrington, RI, 02806, United States
THIS EVENT IS FULLY SUBSCRIBED. TO BE PLACED ON THE WAITING LIST, PLEASE EMAIL CINDYELDER@BLCT.ORG.
In a ribbon of saltmarsh in coastal New England, an intergenerational group of citizen scientists is trying to save the Saltmarsh Sparrow from extinction, one nest at a time. Join us for a community screening of the new documentary by Jason Jaacks, Between Moon Tides, followed by a discussion featuring the co-directors of the Saltmarsh Sparrow Research Initiative, Steve Reinert, Jim O’Neill and Deirdre Robinson, along with Research Assistant Joel Eckerson.
The Saltmarsh Sparrow has often been referred to as the “canary in the coal mine” for rising sea levels due to global warming. It has successfully built nests only an inch above the ground for thousands of years.
Dependent upon healthy salt marshes on the East Coast of the US, the Saltmarsh Sparrow’s population has diminished by 75% since the 1990s. It lives nowhere else in the world and could become extinct by mid-century due to flooding, depredation and habitat loss.

Between Moon Tides: The Documentary
Between Moon Tides follows an intergenerational group of citizen scientists in coastal New England as they attempt to save the Saltmarsh Sparrow from extinction — one nest at a time. Against the backdrop of rising sea levels, three retirees and a young intern forge deep bonds while scouring the saltmarsh, banding birds and witnessing firsthand the devastating effects of climate change.
Through stunning visuals and intimate storytelling, the film reveals how a disappearing bird serves as both a warning and a call to action. Yet, at its heart, Between Moon Tides is a love story—about nature, mentorship and the hope that comes from refusing to give up, even in the face of impossible odds.
About Jason Jaacks
Jason Jaacks is a filmmaker and photographer whose work explores the natural world and our place in it through the lens of science, natural history, and exploration. As a visual journalist, he has produced television for National Geographic, an award-winning web series for PBS Digital Studios, and video shorts for The New York Times. His films have been screened at numerous film festivals, including Mountainfilm, Big Sky Documentary Film Festival, and Wild & Scenic Film Festival. Jason is a National Geographic Explorer and holds a Master of Journalism from the University of California, Berkeley.
Thanks to our 2025 Land Trust Learning Series Sponsors!

Meridian Custom Homes ~ Providence
Charles E. Millard, Inc. General Contractors – Bristol
Tiffany’s Salon & Spa – Barrington
PODS Swimming – East Providence
Rosemary’s School of Dance – Warren, Bristol, Rehoboth
Jaffe Orthodontics – Barrington & Portsmouth

Student Stewardship Team - Barrington Middle School Pollinator Garden
2025-05-10 13:00 - 15:00 | Barrington Middle School, 261 Middle Highway, Barrington, RI, 02806
This event is for members of our Student Stewardship Team for high school students ages 14 to 18. If you are not a registered member and would like to join, visit our Student Stewardship page for more information.
On Saturday, May 10, from 1 – 3 pm, we’ll be doing spring maintenance of the Barrington Middle School pollinator garden we built last year.
REGISTER FOR THE EVENT
Dress for the weather and wear sturdy, water-resistant footwear. Bring a water bottle!
We’ll meet in the parking area in the back of the Barrington Middle School, 261 Middle Highway.
Thanks for participating!

Art in Nature Series: Nature Journaling with Allison Wilbur
2025-05-12 14:00 - 16:00 | Osamequin Nature Preserve, 1580 Rte. 114 North, Barrington, Rhode Island, 02806
Join artist Allison Wilbur for our second monthly walk and Nature Journaling session. This session will take place on Monday, May 12, from 2 to 4 pm at Osamequin Nature Preserve
REGISTER FOR THE EVENT
Each month we will explore a different Land Trust property to improve our powers of observation and keep a record of the changing seasons.
You’ll be invited to share ideas on what to enter into your journal and encourage each other as you explore and document the natural world.
Each participant should bring their own journal and pens, pencils, watercolors or whatever supplies fit your practice. This group is focused on sharing of ideas and approaches (not artistic instruction).
This event is open to all ages (as long as children are accompanied by an adult).
In the event of rain, we will meet at the Residential Properties room on the second floor of the Barrington Public Library. Cindy Elder, Executive Director of the Land Trust, will share a slide show of Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve. We can share any nature journals we have and talk about journaling ideas and techniques.
About Allison Wilbur
Allison Wilbur is a quilt artist who focuses on the natural world and women’s empowerment. Living on the edge of one of the Barrington Land Conservation Trust properties, she enjoys daily walks in the field and often records the passing of the seasons in her journal. Allison has recently shared her work at the Audubon Society and the Blithewold Gallery in Bristol. You can learn more about Allison and her work at AllisonWilburQuilts.com.
