Franklin Bellingham Rail Trail Ribbon Cutting - March 25

On March 25 at 11 AM, residents of Franklin and Bellingham will gather for an exciting event – the ribbon cutting ceremony for the newly resurfaced section of the Southern New England Rail Trail (SNETT). This project has been a long time in the making, and the community is eager to celebrate the completion of this important infrastructure upgrade.

The resurfaced section of the Franklin Bellingham Rail Trail was completed in late 2023 and runs from Grove Street in Franklin to Prospect St. The trail is used by walkers, joggers, cyclists, and skaters of all ages and abilities, providing a safe and enjoyable outdoor space for residents to stay active and enjoy the beauty of their surroundings.

The resurfacing of a section of the trail has been a top priority for local officials and community members alike. The previous surface was worn, uneven, and prone to flooding making it difficult for some users to navigate safely. The new surface is smooth, even, and durable, providing a comfortable and safe experience for all who use the trail.

The ribbon cutting ceremony will take place at the trailhead located at Grove Street in Franklin. Attendees can expect a festive atmosphere, with speeches from local officials and community leaders. The ceremony will culminate with the cutting of the ribbon, officially marking the opening of the newly resurfaced section of the trail. Following this there will be a group walk on the newly completed section of the trail

Local officials are thrilled about the completion of the project and the positive impact it will have on the community. "The Rail Trail is a wonderful asset for our towns, and we're proud to be part of its improvement," said Franklin Bellingham Rail Trail President Cobi Frongillo. "This project will make the trail safer and more accessible for all users, and we're excited to celebrate this important milestone with our community."

The resurfacing project was designed by Franklin Department of Public Works, and carried out by Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation. The Franklin Bellingham Rail Trail is a prime example of how investment in community infrastructure can have a positive impact on the quality of life for residents. The resurfaced section of the trail will provide a safe and enjoyable space for people of all ages and abilities to stay active and connect with nature.

The ribbon cutting ceremony for the resurfaced section of the Franklin Bellingham Rail Trail is an exciting event for the community, marking the completion of an important infrastructure upgrade that will benefit residents for years to come. Attendees can look forward to a celebration of community, outdoor recreation, and the power of investment in public infrastructure.

the newly resurfaced section of the Southern New England Rail Trail (SNETT)

Converse and Conserve Workshop - Come Learn About Programs That Allow Your Property to Work for You and Create a Family Legacy

Converse and Conserve Workshop - Come Learn About Programs That Allow Your Property to Work for You and Create a Family Legacy

Tax Incentives | Resource Management | Land Endowment

Your land is a part of your legacy. Deciding what will happen to your land after you are gone is the next critical step of being a good land steward and furthering that legacy. Who will own your land and how will it be used? What will your legacy continue to be? 

These are questions that the "Converse and Conserve" workshop on Wednesday, March 29 from 4 PM - 6 PM at Town Hall, Council Chambers can answer for you.

Join the Franklin Conservation Department, Franklin Assessor's Office, Franklin Agricultural Commission, Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, Metacomet Land Trust, and DDCRW Law in learning about your options. Come learn about applicable tax incentive programs for forestland, agricultural land, and open space; learn about resource management for your natural environment; and even learn how to endow your land to ensure its lifelong protection. Estate planning, whether for now or for the future, is not just for the wealthy or for those who own "estates" – if you own land, then estate planning is a necessary and valuable step to ensure that the legacy of your land is a positive one!

Food and beverages will be provided by Birchwood Bakery & Kitchen.

RSVP for a free gift. 

For more information or to RSVP contact bgoodlander@franklinma.gov/(508) 520-4847.

Shared from ->  https://www.franklinma.gov/conservation/news/converse-and-conserve-workshop-come-learn-about-programs-allow-your-property-work

Converse and Conserve Workshop - Come Learn About Programs That Allow Your Property to Work for You and Create a Family Legacy

"four recommendations critical to rebuilding a state park system that meets our collective, essential needs"

"On October 14, Massachusetts Conservation Voters convened a state virtual parks summit attended by more than 20 environmental organizations from across the Commonwealth. This open letter, signed by more than 50 organizations, is the result.

MASSACHUSETTS STATE PARKS are in crisis. More than a decade of funding and staffing cuts have eviscerated the Department of Conservation and Recreation’s (DCR) ability to meet its mission “to protect, promote, and enhance our Commonwealth of natural, cultural, and recreational resources for the well-being of all,” while digging a $1 billion deferred maintenance hole.

The December 2021 Legislative Special Commission report on DCR (page 51) found that Massachusetts, one of the wealthiest states in the nation,  ranks last in per capita spending on state and municipal parks.

State park visitors rarely encounter rangers, and too often find shuttered facilities, crumbling infrastructure, and dirty bathrooms. Park rules enforcement to ensure visitor safety and resource protection is virtually non-existent. Also compromised is our parkland’s ability to support our physical and mental well-being, promote environmental justice, mitigate flooding and urban heat islands, foster climate resilience, and harbor significant natural resources and biodiversity."

Continue reading the article online at CommonWealth Magazine ->

https://commonwealthmagazine.org/opinion/getting-our-state-parks-back-on-track/ 

Download a copy of the report reference to read the full story

https://www.mass.gov/doc/umdi-dcr-special-commission-report/download

A pond at DCR-run Nickerson State Park in Brewster

Apply Now for the Seasonal summer jobs for DCR

"This summer DCR is looking to fill more that 1,500 seasonal positions at state parks, forests, beaches, pools, and campgrounds from the Boston Harbor Islands to the peak of Mount Greylock! Check the link to search and apply!" 

https://bit.ly/DCRSummer2022

Shared from Twitter -> https://twitter.com/MassDCR/status/1521195315000320002 

Apply Now for the Seasonal summer jobs for DCR

FYI - SNETT Trail work underway on Bellingham section

"You may have noticed a construction trailer at Center St parking area and signs at Fox Run Rd and near Harpin St. Exciting things are happening!

The DCR has hired a contractor to improve the section of the SNETT between the Fox Run Rd and Rt. 126. The clearing will start soon. We will post more details as they become available.:

Shared from the SNETT Instagram account - > https://www.instagram.com/p/Cc6hfYJrcxw/

FYI - SNETT Trail work underway on Bellingham section

Senior Parking Pass for MA Residents good for use at MA State Parks

Massachusetts residents aged 62 or older are eligible for a discounted lifetime parking pass. This pass covers the cost of parking at most state parks.

If you are eligible for a Senior Parking Pass, you can order it by mail.

Send a request for a Senior Parking Pass to your closest regional office:

Central Regional Office

355 West Boylston Street, Route 110

Clinton, MA 01510

Attention: Senior Pass 

Include:

• A copy of your Massachusetts driver’s license or other official proof of state residency and age.
• A check for $10 made out to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
• A contact phone number or email in case we need to reach you. (Optional)
• Senior passes may take 4-7 weeks before they are mailed.

For additional info on this program, use this MA Gov link ->  https://www.mass.gov/how-to/get-a-senior-parking-pass

Senior Parking Pass for MA Residents good for use at MA State Parks

Franklin to get a piece of the MassTrails Grant Program announced

Charlie Baker (@MassGovernor) tweeted on Thu, Jul 22, 2021:

Glad to join state + local officials today in Sandwich to award nearly $4M in MassTrails Grant Program funding to 52 trail projects to support construction, maintenance + improvement of public trails across the Commonwealth.

Full press release ->  🏞️ https://t.co/unNjArHfE5
Press conference video -> 📺 https://t.co/KLqiv94S9H  or https://youtu.be/XDZLGTAZVBE

Shared via Twitter -> https://t.co/K648WQiQhU

The 52 project awards can be viewed in this PDF ->   https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XhuW_9x0qXMPB7r44oNBt8aJxiXW3tYw/view?usp=sharing

On the first page we find:

Community: Foxboro, Wrentham, & Franklin

Organization: Department of Conservation and Recreation

Project Title: F. Gilbert Hills/Wrentham/Franklin OHV Trail Repair and Improvements

Brief Project Description:

"This project builds off previous trail repair work aimed to protect wetland and soil resources, repair poor trail conditions, and enhance user experience for all visitors. Years of repeated motorized use with a lack of substantial trail repair have resulted in a trail which is up to fifteen feet wide in various locations. Fall line trails with poor drainage potential have left some areas eroded to almost two feet below the original trail surface. Conditions addressed as part of the project include braided hill climbs, mud pits with standing water, and needed trail relocation"

MassTrails Grant Program

State forest parking lot on Grove St is ready for use

"Thanks to @MassDCR for an incredible job building a new parking lot for expanded State Forest access! Thanks to @jeffroy for your advocacy on this important state project! It’s summer, Franklin, let’s go explore Franklin State Forest!!!"

State forest parking lot on Grove St is ready for use

Franklin radar picked up via Twitter
https://twitter.com/TOFranklinMA/status/1281616863269715970?s=09

MassDCR: How to do social distancing in parks, trails, and paths

"Be smart! Be Considerate! Practice good #socialdistancing by staying 6 feet from others in parks, on trails and on paved paths!

Parks are open for all to enjoy but please be conscious of others and help everyone stay safe during the spread of #covid19. "

Additional info on how to visit the MA parks  https://bit.ly/3ad6Kn4

How to do social distancing in parks, trails, and paths

Shared from the MassDCR twitter account
https://twitter.com/MassDCR/status/1258094174991155200?s=09

Some MA state parks will be open more during the coronavirus outbreak

From the Milford Daily News, an article of interest for Franklin:

"All coastal beach reservation parking areas managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation will be closed to reduce groups of people from gathering during the coronavirus outbreak.

Gov. Charlie Baker issued the emergency order that goes into effect Friday at noon.

DCR will open select state parks early and expand access to other parks to provide additional open space opportunities for residents, the governor said. DCR will also be limiting the amount of parking spaces available at certain high-visitation state parks.

 .....

DCR’s ice rinks, visitor centers, campgrounds, playgrounds, fitness areas, athletic fields, athletic courts, golf courses and bathroom facilities will remain closed until May 4"

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200402/ashland-natick-and-hopkinton-state-parks-will-be-open-more-during-coronavirus-outbreak

Hiking in MA State Parks  https://www.mass.gov/hiking-in-massachusetts-state-parks

Hiking in MA State Parks

Town of Franklin kicks off study of Charles River Meadowlands with funding from DCR

Charles River Meadowland Initiative has announced an effort to secure the services of a consulting firm to undertake a study of more than 500 acres of lands in the towns of Franklin, Bellingham, and Medway currently under the jurisdiction of the US Army Corps of Engineers. The purpose of the study is to assess conservation and passive recreation opportunities available on those lands and adjacent town lands.

The $25,000 grant made available through the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) was facilitated by state representative Jeffrey Roy, representing Franklin and Medway, state representative Kevin Kuros, representing Bellingham, as well as former state representative John V. Fernandes of Milford.

According to Franklin Director of Planning, Bryan Taberner, the immediate goal is to identify a qualified firm and work to a timeline that will produce a report by the first half of 2019. “We expect that process should identify a few key areas for focus as well as general long-term goals,” he said. The work will be managed by a Working Group consisting of volunteers from the three communities, he added.

As part of the process, the Meadowlands Initiative Working Group and the consultant will be planning and hosting public hearings in Franklin, Bellingham, and Medway to identify ideas and concerns from townspeople, abutters, local officials, and others interested in the project. Feedback from that process will eventually become part of the report.

“This is a great step forward for the Charles River Meadowlands Initiative and is a credit to the many volunteers, our dedicated local legislators, and our local officials who have generously shared their time and ideas,” said Alan Earls, founder of the organization.

About the Charles River Meadowlands Initiative

The towns of Bellingham, Franklin, and Medway play host to more than 500 acres of land protected by the US Army Corps of Engineers as part of the Charles River Natural Valley flood control project. Organized in 2015 with guidance from Metacomet Land Trust, Charles River Meadowlands Initiative is an effort among citizens and local officials to work together and to work with Federal and State officials, to improve access to and management of this beautiful natural resource. 

For more information visit www.charlesrivermeadowlands.org

For questions about the Meadowland Initiative, please contact Alan Earls: alan.r.earls@gmail.com

For questions about the specific project parameters and requirements, contact Byran Taberner: btaberner@franklinma.gov

Oct. 28. 2017, 20 walkers explored between Oak St. Extension and White Ave in Franklin. (courtesy photo)

"It’s been quite a tradition"

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"If you’ve resolved to get in touch with nature in 2018, you’ll have an opportunity to do so on the very first day of the year. 

The Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park will be hosting a “First Day Hike” in the afternoon on New Year’s Day - part of a statewide series of hikes held by the Department of Conservation and Recreation. According to the department, this will be the fifth year the event has been offered in Uxbridge, though the first hike in the state took place 27 years ago at Milton’s Blue Hills Reservation. 

Registration will begin at 12:30 p.m. at the park’s River Bend Farm Visitor Center at 287 Oak St., while the hike will kick off at 1 p.m."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20171227/first-day-hike-will-ring-in-new-year


The MA DCR also shares the 7 hikes around the State that are scheduled for January 1
https://www.mass.gov/news/baker-polito-administration-announces-first-day-hikes-at-state-parks

The trails at DelCarte were in use this week

The walk provided some great scenic views

In the News: gypsy moths, elderly mental health

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"August trees are looking more like November trees in some areas after gypsy moth caterpillars devoured leaves more aggressively than they had since the 1980s. 

A recent aerial survey completed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) revealed that damaged caused to trees by gypsy moth caterpillers feeding in 2016 was more than nine times greater than the damage in 2015. 

Each year, the DCR Forest Health Program conducts an aerial survey to measure the extent of damage caused to forests by different agents. 

The 2016 survey, conducted the second week of July, revealed 362,254 acres of damage from gypsy moths, crypt gall wasps and conifer discoloration.

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160806/state-gypsy-moth-damage-nine-times-greater-than-in-2015

MA DCR aerial survey - tree damage from gypsy moths 2016

"Working out of an unassuming building on Maple Street in Bellingham, Gail Bourassa has started a difficult job: getting mental health care to senior citizens, a group that has traditionally been reticent to seek help. 

Bourassa, a counselor, is the new regional program manager for a project - running across Franklin, Bellingham, Blackstone, Medway, Milford and Mendon - that looks to reach seniors where they live. 

"Young people often self-refer (to these services) when they need it," she said. "For elders, it's more difficult - they rarely self-refer."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160806/aging-population-creates-challenges-for-mental-health-care

New "Healthy Heart Trail" at Franklin State Forest

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"The Department of Conservation and Recreation has announced a new Healthy Heart Trail at Franklin State Forest. 

This trail is one of more than 70 Healthy Heart Trails that DCR has designated across the commonwealth to promote good health and a connection with nature. Park supervisor Tom Ashton and his staff have marked the 1.2-mile trail that covers several rolling hills. Ashton encourages visitors to access the trail at the entrance adjacent to the Hockomock YMCA, as well as the gate along Grove Street. 

Covering 843 acres in the Forge Hill area, Franklin State Forest is a minimally developed property managed for passive recreation. For maps or information: mass.gov/dcr."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160730/department-of-conservation-announces-new-franklin-state-forest-trail

on a trail in the Franklin Town Forest off Summer St

• You can go directly to the Franklin State Forest page

http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/dcr/massparks/region-south/f-gilbert-hills-state-forest.html#Franklin SF

• Or check out the Southern New England Trunk Trail (SNETT) off Grove St

http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/dcr/massparks/region-central/southern-new-england-trunkline-trail.html

Stink bugs and other natural creatures

The Mass Great Outdoors blog is a recent discovery of mine that you might be interested in following. Two years ago the stink bug made its appearance well known in my house. Winter moths appeared in droves last year. This recent posting covers the natural order of the creatures at this time of year.

image from Mass Great Outdoors blog

It’s that time of year again: temperatures outside are dropping, and to some insects, this is an open invitation to enter your home and hunker down for the winter. Here are the three you may likely see around Massachusetts this fall:  1)    Western Conifer Seed   ...Continue Reading The Scoop on Stink Bugs and Other Home Invaders

You can visit the Mass Great Outdoors Blog here  http://blog.mass.gov/greatoutdoors/

DCR "added the Southern New England Trunkline Trail to its online database of state parks and trails"

Milford Daily News reports on a significant milestone for the SNETT trail, it is now included in the MA Dept of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) webpage.

"One of our major goals has been for DCR to create a website for the SNETT," said Jean Keyes, of Bellingham, a member of the group. "It’s their property, but it has never been mentioned on any of their sites listing options for recreation. We were really fighting hard to get that on there." 

In the last two years, volunteers have coordinated projects along the trail, from installing signs and gates to grading or widening certain sections. Starting at the Franklin State Forest, the SNETT stretches east to west, winding through Bellingham, Uxbridge, Blackstone, Millville and, finally, Douglas. 

Depending on available funding, there are plans to link the trial to the Blackstone River Bikeway, a proposed 48-mile trail that would travel from Worcester to Providence, R.I.

SNETT sign at Grove St entrance

Read more: http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/x369949648/DCR-recognizes-SNETT-trail-with-listing-on-website#ixzz2cPEQrhFd

You can find the listing for SNETT here
http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/dcr/massparks/region-central/southern-new-england-trunkline-trail.html

Or find the top link to all the state parks here
http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/dcr/