Somerset Woods Trustees

LAND STEWARDSHIP: In 2024, Somerset Woods partnered with Pierce Pond Watershed Trust to increase our respective stewardship capacity with the addition of a full-time staff position. This new position implemented a trail rehabilitation project at Wesserunsett Stream Preserve, improving the sustainability and accessibility of more than 2 miles of walking trails, and enhanced public use infrastructure at Parsons Family Preserve to facilitate increased visitation and engagement in the long-term habitat restoration project underway on this in-town property. Invasive plant surveys were completed on three parcels, resulting in comprehensive management plans for the long-term protection of native biodiversity and enhanced forest health. A new non-motorized trail network was established at our flagship property, Parkman Hill Farm.

EDUCATION & OUTREACH: Somerset Woods engaged with community members through monthly programs, educational events, and an e-newsletter all designed to raise awareness of and appreciation for the natural world. More than 100 local K-12 students participated in volunteer sessions and educational programs facilitated by land trust staff and volunteers. In partnership with Skowhegan Area High School, Somerset Woods hosted two Horticultural Apprentices high school students who learned native plant cultivation skills while supporting our habitat restoration activities at Parsons Family Preserve. At the end of the year-long apprenticeship, the students earned a microcredential for their high school transcripts.

SOMERSET WOODS SHARE: Piloted in 2024, this program provides emergency heating assistance to community members in need. We function much like a food pantry - but with firewood rather than food. In this pilot year, staff and volunteers sourced 10 cords of firewood from our stewardship activity on our conserved lands. Staff harvested or salvaged the trees, and volunteers took the lead in firewood processing and distribution. A wood splitter was acquired in September to lessen our reliance upon volunteers in-kind equipment and increase our wood-processing capacity.