Canton's Visual Arts Center's Trails Back Open for Hiking

When blew into town last month, she left a mess on the trails. Clogged and congested by upwards of 30 fallen trees, the 124 acre property’s clean up plan looked tedious and long.

“We had to close the trails for public safety. There were trees strewn across the trails all over the place,” remarked Sharon Lee, the site's office manager.  “We only have one full-time property worker and he has eleven buildings and 124 acres to manage. Add to his everyday duties the task of firing up a chainsaw, which requires at least two people for safety’s sake, this would be a laborious time consuming clean-up effort.”

Fortunately last week, Steve Landry the property manager at the Visual Arts Center, was able to strike a deal with Canton Tree Service’s Rocco Cammarata.

“They gave us a nice rate and we were ready to get moving,” Landry said.

The local tree service spent upwards of 12 hours removing the fallen oaks and pines.  In an awkward and confining forest environment the workers from Canton Tree used their skid-steer and got the work done.

Now that the trails are cleared, the Visual Arts Center is pleased to reopen the trail system to the public. As part of the larger Mass Audubon conservation organization, the Visual Arts Center is a membership driven organization.

“We do charge non-members a small fee to walk the trails, but I always encourage our visitors to become members,” Lee said. “It only takes me about six steps into the forest to feel a sense of peace and wonder and we’ve made several nice improvements to the visitor experience this year, including several pairs of binoculars for loan. I’m always intrigued by how many Canton residents have no idea of our amazing trail system.”   

Although Irene seems like a distant memory for many, inside our forest loop, her power won’t soon be forgotten. Come visit the trails soon for a walk or hike–and discover nature’s power and beauty right in Canton.

Contributed By Mass Audubon Visual Arts Center