If you haven’t been to Hamilton Audubon Sanctuary in West Bath recently, it’s time to put that on your fall checklist. Maine Audubon Land Steward Liz Thibault has led some trail improvement projects there recently and filed this update:
This month, the Properties Department said farewell to our seasonal staff member Kiley Chen. I want to take a moment to acknowledge how much she helped on the stewardship side of things. Kiley’s previous experience was research focused, so of course I handed her power tools and offered to expand her skillset! Kiley brought positive energy each day, leaned in to any task assigned, and contributed to the success of several large scale projects. Along with the construction of a turnpike at Mast Landing, Kiley assisted with the installation of new bog bridging at Fields Pond, and the replacement of a 20-foot bridge at Hamilton Audubon Sanctuary. Through rain or shine, we got things done! Although her time with Maine Audubon was short, I’m glad that I was able to connect with her through trails.
With Hamilton fresh on my mind, I continue to encourage folks to get outdoors and explore if you’re able. The change of the seasons has brought about several moments of marvel, and for me it’s those little sights and sounds that make challenging days more bearable. Hamilton was certainly bursting with colors after the recent rain. Moss was lush and vibrant which allowed for the mushrooms to really pop.
On Friday, October 24, three eager volunteers helped construct the final Hamilton footbridge of the season. The site of this 12-foot-long bridge was once just a single board sunken into the stream, but it’s now a 4-foot-wide bridge that, when completed, will include an access ramp.
The addition of this structure will allow for safer passage, and also help protect the area by allowing water to flow beneath it as it should.
As always, special thanks go to Glenn Evans, Hamilton caretaker, and the dedicated volunteers he gathers at Hamilton to keep trail corridors open and blazes fresh.
We’ve made it through the summer season, and that feels good. I hope that these fall days bring a level of calmness. As always, please reach out with any sanctuary related questions, comments, or concerns!
