The Town of Rochester, Wildlands Trust and Rochester Land Trust are proud to announce the opening of the Doggetts Brook Trail, which culminates a successful multi-year effort to link existing Town and conservation lands. The trail originates at the Dexter Lane ball fields and meanders by a reservoir, abandoned cranberry bogs, vernal pool, and through open field and woodlands bordering on Doggetts Brook. In late 2011, the Town purchased a 29-acre parcel of land from Deb Arney of Rochester with funding from the Rochester Land Trust and Buzzards Bay National Estuary Program The Arney property had long been a conservation priority for the Town, Wildlands Trust and Rochester Land Trust because it was a key link to an assemblage of conservation properties. The groups worked together over the past two years to improve a loop trail that links over 100 acres of open space for public enjoyment. Thanks to a grant from the Makepeace Neighborhood Fund, the trailhead is marked by a map display case, and a kiosk and signage are installed at strategic points along the trail.
Please join us to celebrate the newest walking trail in Rochester at the grand opening on Saturday, September 13 at 1:00 pm at the Dexter Lane Recreational Area by the trailhead display case on the restroom building. After a short dedication, all are invited to walk the trail led by local naturalists. Refreshments will be available at the end of the walk, which normally takes 45 minutes to an hour to complete. Please bring bug spray, water bottles, hats and walking sticks if needed. Dogs are welcome but must be leashed.