Meet the Volunteers Who Steward Our Preserves
Hands on the Land is our series spotlighting the dedicated volunteers who give their time and energy to caring for our natural spaces. Throughout the series, we’ll introduce you to a land steward who plays a vital role in maintaining the preserves we all enjoy.
This month, we’re highlighting David Price, a dedicated land steward with the Middlesex Land Trust. A longtime member and avid outdoorsman, David brings his love of hiking and shared open spaces to his volunteer work. From trail maintenance to mowing riverfront preserves, he’s helping ensure these places stay accessible and welcoming for all. Read on to learn what inspired David to get involved and what he enjoys most about stewardship.
Q: What inspired you to become a volunteer land steward, and what do you enjoy most about it?
“I love being in the woods. My wife and I enjoy hiking, and we are fortunate to have so many trails near where we live in East Hampton. I also like to mountain bike and have always appreciated the time and effort of others to maintain the trails. As I was approaching retirement, I was looking for activities that would keep me off the couch, on my feet, and outside. I have been a member of the Middlesex Land Trust for many years. A few years ago, I saw an invitation in a Middlesex Land Trust newsletter for land stewards, and I willingly volunteered.”
Q: Can you share a favorite experience or accomplishment during your time as a steward?
“I can’t say I have a favorite experience or accomplishment, but I very much enjoy spending time at all the land trust properties, especially those I have not previously visited. I also like learning the history of properties, who owned them previously, and how they became part of the land trust. I also enjoy the camaraderie of working beside other stewards and learning more about invasive species.”
Q: What are some of the tasks you regularly perform to help care for the preserves?
“Tasks usually involve trail checks, trail blazing, cutting back vines and other invasive species, clearing downed trees, or shoring up walking bridges. I also mow the Cobalt Landing property, located in Middle Haddam at the end of Oakum Dock Road. This is one of my favorite properties, providing access to the Connecticut River for fishing, kayaking, or quiet contemplation. I love that the Land Trust provides this access to the Connecticut River to the public. I also like just seeing how the river seems to change day to day and season to season.”
Q: Why do you believe land conservation and stewardship are important for the community and the environment?
“I am a strong advocate for shared spaces. The Land Trust not only preserves open space from development, but it also democratizes the property so that it is available to everyone. The Stewards have a responsibility to ensure that the properties are well maintained for the benefit of all.”
Q: What advice would you give to someone interested in getting involved or reducing their environmental impact?
“Do it! The Middlesex Land Trust has a great collection of properties, but they require maintenance. The stewards are a friendly, welcoming, knowledgeable group of volunteers. You will be glad you did it!”
