Volunteers turned out in force on Wednesday to rework, repair and clear the Partrick Wetlands trails. The project was organized by Tony McDowell, Earthplace director, with help from Earthplace trustee and director of the former Partrick Wetlands Preservation Fund Matthew Mandell.
The group included 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Police Chief Foti Koskinas, Deputy Chief Sam Arciola, firefighter Mike Acquino, and Jim Donaher and Chris Ventrella of Gault Family Companies. They used chain saws, brush cutters and shears to open up 3 paths that over the years had grown over.
The Partrick Wetland restoration crew.
Earthplace — deeded the property in 2007 by the PWPF — will mark the trails, and install interpretive signs and information.
Westport is lucky to have the Partrick Wetlands at all.
In 2001, a developer proposed building 31 houses on the 55-acre property. Neighbors in Westport and Norwalk formed the PWPF. They opposed the project, citing environmental concerns.
Partrick Wetlands scene. (Photo/Scott Smith)
It took over 5 years, but the advocates prevailed. An agreement deed-restricted 22 acres. Only 13 houses were built on 10 of the remaining acres, leaving the rest of the land undisturbed.
Back in 2009, these youngsters helped with the original trail creation.
The Partrick Wetlands is home to many species of birds and mammals. It is open daily until dusk, on Partrick Road just off Wilton Road.
A map of the Partrick Wetlands.
Click below for the dedication video from 2007:
Where is the entrance on Patrick Rd to the trails?