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 pleased to feature Joan Giesemann. Joan lives alongside the Airline Trail and has seen firsthand how our preserves have grown in use and importance. Whether helping with trail work, supporting invasive species efforts, or encouraging neighbors to explore the land, Joan brings care, perspective, and community spirit to her stewardship.
Q: How did you become connected with the Middlesex Land Trust?
A: “My husband Elwin and I share a border with the Middlesex Land Trust (MxLT). The Airline Trail is our north property border.”
Q: How have you seen the preserve or trails change over time?
A: “We have seen a steady increase in use of the Palmer Taylor Preserve these past 15 years. The opening of the Airline Trail is tremendously popular and I would like to think that Covid contributed to awareness of the MxLT trails. What a positive outcome in a dark moment.”
Q: What has your experience been like volunteering with the stewardship committee?
A: “The stewardship committee members have demonstrated a passionate care for the land to provide quality hiking trails. Trail clearing, tree cutting and bridge building are done by folks from varied backgrounds, abilities and ages. The core group of stewards are always welcoming new and the occasional trail workers like myself. These are people who care for one another and many have been on the crew for years. Two volunteers spent months on their own clearing barberry and other invasive plants on the Palmer Taylor Preserve. We all need to ensure that their work continues as this stuff takes dedication to eradicate.”
Q: Why do you believe land conservation and stewardship are important for the community?
A: “As the remaining plots of land in this area of Portland sell off for housing, preserves like the Palmer Taylor Preserve are essential for the conservation of land for wildlife and open space for area residents. We feel very fortunate to live here. We do not have sidewalks in this neighborhood. The hiking trails and the Airline Trail are an excellent alternative and much safer than the roads. I like to remind my neighbors of this resource.”
Q: What would you say to someone who might be interested in becoming a steward?
A: “Having an interest in taking care of land and enjoying what they experience while exploring land trust properties is the first step. Working alongside experienced stewards is the best way to learn. Experienced stewards are very happy to welcome newcomers.
“For women and men who want to be outside, get some exercise and be with like-minded people, stewardship work is rewarding and does not require particular skills or strength. We all bring value to the group and to the land.”