Meredith Village Savings Bank (MVSB) is pleased to announce that the charitable fund carrying its name has awarded a $7,615 grant to Rumney Ecological Systems (RES) of Rumney. These funds will be used by the non-profit to support the second phase of trail and boardwalk improvements along the Kent Ecological Trail at Quincy Bog Natural Area.
About 1 mile in length, the Kent Ecological Trail takes visitors around the perimeter of Quincy Bog, through wetlands, sandy floodplain, areas of beaver activity and forest. The repair work, slated to begin in May, includes areas of reconstruction to the trail and boardwalk, installation of observation benches and the replacement of Eagle Scout Bridge. The replacement bridge will be pontoon-based to allow it to rise and fall freely, eliminating the need to control water levels by opening nearby beaver dams, maintenance that the RES Board normally attends to. These enhancements will provide greater public access and enhanced on-site learning opportunities at the natural area.
“We are so appreciative of this generous grant from Meredith Village Savings Bank,” said Betty Jo Taffe, Board President for Rumney Ecological Systems. “Social interaction and hands-on experiences are important factors in facilitating learning; making family-friendly, outdoor nature centers, like the Quincy Bog, critical tools for wildlife education in our communities. These much needed enhancements will benefit all Quincy Bog visitors by providing a safer and more comfortable area for recreation and learning.”
The mission of Rumney Ecological Systems (RES) is to offer the public opportunities for nature education, research and nature-centered outdoor recreation at the Quincy Bog and other properties, and projects open space through the Pemi-Baker Land Trust in cooperation with area landowners. Quincy Bog Natural Area consists of a pond and a variety of associated wetlands surrounded by upland forests, and is currently the central focus of the organization’s education and recreational programming. It is open to the public free of charge 365 days a year for nature, study, photography, hiking, and, in winter, snowshoeing and cross country skiing. For more information about Quincy Bog and its environmental programs, please visit www.quincybog.org.
