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 preserving the beauty and accessibility of the preserves we all enjoy.
This month, we’re pleased to feature Val Grant, a dedicated land steward with the Middlesex Land Trust. Whether clearing trails, tackling erosion, or sharing knowledge at outreach events, Val finds fulfillment in helping to maintain our beautiful preserves. Read on to learn about Val’s favorite stewardship moments and advice for anyone looking to make a difference.
Q: What inspired you to become a volunteer land steward, and what do you enjoy most about it?
“I’ve always appreciated learning about the beauty of the natural world, which instilled in me a sense of responsibility to protect it. When I learned of the Middlesex Land Trust’s (MxLT) mission of stewardship, I was immediately inspired to connect to learn more. The work of stewardship resonates deeply with me, as it offers rewarding experiences. We come together in a natural environment and share in physical work that strengthens our commitment and reinforces our shared purpose. It is very fulfilling to be part of a dedicated team with a common goal of safeguarding natural environments.”
Q: Can you share a favorite experience or accomplishment during your time as a steward?
“I’ve been with MxLT stewardship for about five years now. One of my favorite work parties was held at Spiderweed Preserve in Middletown. The stone ruins of an old building’s foundation were overrun with weeds and brush, barely visible. We all worked very hard and steadily to clear it. There were a lot of grunts, groans, and laughs. We accomplished a lot, and we knew our work would better the enjoyment of hikers to the preserve. In my five years, I’ve participated in many outreach events. I really enjoy meeting people and being able to share information about the MxLT preserves with them.“
Q: What are some of the tasks you regularly perform to help care for the preserves?
“You’ll usually find me working to clear and cut back brush on the trails for trail maintenance. If there’s a blowdown, I’ll help to remove the wood and limbs from the trail. When we’re on a trail and see an area where waterflow may be causing erosion, we’ll work to gather stones to fortify the trail or channel the water. I like participating in those little engineering projects. One of the great things about volunteering for stewardship is recognizing that there are opportunities to contribute in other ways if one is not able to physically participate in work party events. Our monthly meetings require some administrative tasks, and so I also help with those tasks.“
Q: Why do you believe land conservation and stewardship are important for the community and the environment?
“We need people committed to protecting natural habitats. Stewardship provides the means to do work that helps to protect habitats of plant and animal species and in helping to protect natural resources that are crucial to our well-being.“
Q: What advice would you give to someone interested in getting involved or reducing their environmental impact?
“Start small. Take inventory of your own personal habits as a consumer. Before you throw something away, think whether it can be reused, re-purposed, repaired, or recycled. If ready to take the next step in getting involved and/or advocate, look for opportunities to join environmental organizations, such as a land trust like MxLT. Organizations may be seeking volunteers for their events, local clean up days, or other initiatives.”