Partners Bay State Trail Riders Association
Karen Parlin
A central mission of BSTRA is to keep our communities’ trails preserved and maintained for outdoor recreation and fitness. Since 1973, this has been a core focus, taking many forms including education, trail work and activism, and now land ownership. BSTRA is excited to announce the acquisition of 17 acres in Douglas. The parcel connects the Southern New
MaryEllen Coyne and Karleen Mohn, winners of the Bay State Trail Riders Association’s June Trivia Ride at Peppercorn Hill in Upton.
England Trunkline Trail (SNETT) and 131 acres of town-owned land behind the schools. BSTRA’s purchase ensures the property will remain open space and extends the trail network. The short-term plan is to make improvements to the property and build a connecting trail. The land once hosted a farm dump, so clean-up is required. The new trail will connect the SNETT to the town property, including trails used by the schools’ cross-country runners. BSTRA expects to get an additional two miles of trails on the parcel. The long-term plan is to turn the property over to the Metacomet Land Trust, which will ensure the land is preserved and available for equestrians and other users.
In addition to buying this parcel of land, BSTRA donated toward the purchase of the Kelly property in Upton. Thanks to the generosity of BSTRA and other donors, the Metacomet Land Trust recently purchased the property, expanding the Peppercorn Hill Conservation Area. The land will be held in trust by the Sudbury Valley Trustees. BSTRA did maintenance work on the Peppercorn Hill trails in preparation for the June 18 Trivia Ride, sponsored by Tourbillon Trailer Sales. The last time BSTRA held a ride at Peppercorn Hills was in 1997! As land is developed, purchase of open space properties is another way organizations can safeguard that trails remain for all users. BSTRA’s fall calendar offers something for everyone including a judged ride. Of course, what would fall be without the Sue Brainard Memorial Hunter Pace? Sponsored by the Mane Place and Equinature, the Hunter Pace will be held in Douglas State Forest at the Wallum Lake Beach Parking Area, on September 19. Set-up for the Hunter Pace is September 18. Volunteers are welcome. There will be four divisions: Hunter (fast), Hilltop (average), Trailblazer (leisurely), and Junior (average). The goal is to complete the course as close as possible to the optimal time for your division. Jumps are optional, and none are more than three feet. You can ride on your own or as a team. Ribbons will be awarded for first through sixth place. Lunch will be provided. Can you believe this is the 31st year for this event? For more information about the Sue Brainard Memorial Hunter Pace or any of our other rides, visit BSTRA.org. See you on the trails!
y Annamaria Paul
Charles River Dressage Association The CRDA made a smooth transition to a 2021 filled with shows and clinics. In-person Community Horse Fall/Winter 2021
87
