Land and Trails

Calling all walkers, hikers, joggers, birders, photographers, nature lovers and environmentalists.

  • Do you like to explore nature?
  • Do you need a new year-round outdoor activity?
  • Are you interested in visiting diverse scenic areas?
  • Would you like to learn more about the trails right here in Wakefield?
  • Do you want to help protect and preserve our valuable open areas?
  • Are you interested in all this and more within a short distance from home?

The Town of Wakefield Conservation Commission is currently looking for volunteers to join their new Trail Steward Program. Trail Stewards will help promote ongoing healthy, safe, and passable trails throughout Wakefield. View the handbook.

If you are interested in joining, please send an email to conservationdepartment@wakefield.ma.us or call 781-224-5015. You will be provided with an application and waiver form.

Trail Stewardship is volunteer, citizen-driven care, oversight, and upkeep of our Town-owned natural resources. Maintaining these areas helps to protect and preserve our water resources, plant and wildlife habitats, and provides public space for year-round passive recreational activities such as hiking, biking, snowshoeing, picnicking, and bird watching. The ongoing protection of trails and the surrounding areas helps preserve for future generations some of Wakefield's unique natural beauty. 

Trail Stewards will be tasked with:

  • Visiting a designated trail at least once per month to monitor conditions and report potential issues.
  • Pickup and disposal of small trash items (whatever can be taken out in a small bag.)
  • Trimming small branches.
  • Notifying the Conservation Commission of any larger issues that should not be handled alone. For example, downed trees that impede access, large deposits of trash or yard refuse, human caused damage, or unauthorized land use activities such as fires, motorized vehicles, hunting installations, and encroachment.
  • Assisting with trail marker installation and identification of areas where improved signage is necessary.
  • Completing a monthly reporting form documenting trail conditions.