What's New
This summer has been a busy and rewarding season for stewardship across the Indian River Lakes Conservancy. Thanks to the dedication of our volunteers and partners, we’ve accomplished meaningful projects that keep our preserves safe, welcoming, and thriving for all to enjoy.
We kicked off the spring season with two general clean-up days at Redwood Hill Preserve on April 19 and May 10. Many community members joined us to prepare the trails, clear brush, and unweatherize the beloved Trailside Learning Center AKA the owl house, a tradition that marks the changing of the seasons and our shared commitment to this special place and open to the public to reserve for special events or to stop in while you are out on the trails.
At Red Lake Preserve, we were able to grow hiker amenities with the installation of a new kiosk and picnic table, thanks to the hard work and generosity of Steve Goobic, John O’Driscoll, and Brady Thomas. These new features provide a welcoming space for hikers, families, and nature lovers to gather and learn more about the preserve.
Our stewardship efforts also thrived at Baker Woods Preserve. The Black River Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club hosted several events to help replace sections of bog bridging, paint and stain structures, maintain the sensory trail, and plan garden boxes. Their work has kept the trails safe, accessible, and inviting for visitors of all ages.
Adding to the impact at Baker Woods Preserve, Eagle Scout Alex Cooley of Scout Troop 54 in Carthage, installed bat boxes that are now providing habitat and supporting biodiversity at the preserve. Projects like these highlight how stewardship not only maintains our trails but also enriches the ecosystems we protect.
Furthering the reach volunteers made an additional loop trail at Grand Lake Reserve leading directly to Butterfield Lake for those muddy days in the spring. This new trail goes along the ridge with beautiful, elevated views of the lake. Special thank you to Steve Goobic, Martha Cline, Shamela Perera, Allen Pashley, and Ian Hably for their dedication to making this happen.
Most recently the steward expeditions ventured to Ferrone Woods Preserve to install more benches for our hikers to enjoy.
All of this work is possible because of the commitment of our stewardship team, a group of dedicated volunteers and community members who keep us rooted in purpose. From what began as a single 28-acre donation, IRLC has now grown to protect 2,732 acres, five preserves, and 28 miles of hiking trails, free and open to the public. Stewardship is at the heart of that growth, ensuring these lands remain healthy and accessible for generations to come.
Looking ahead, we’re excited for more opportunities to get involved. Our next Stewardship Day at Baker Woods Preserve is scheduled for October 4, 2025. Check our events page for details, and if you’d like to join our stewardship team, please visit our Volunteer page for more information.
Just as our stewardship team anchors our work in care for the land, your support helps us continue to grow, expand, and protect the natural spaces that define the Indian River Lakes region. Together, we can keep the roots strong and ensure these preserves flourish for years to come.