If you haven't been there yet Hamilton Audubon Sanctuary in West Bath, it's time to put this on your fall checklist. Maine Audubon land manager Liz Thibault has recently led some trail improvement projects there and submitted this update:
This month the Real Estate Department said goodbye to our seasonal employee, Kiley Chen. I want to take a moment to acknowledge how much she helped with the administration. Kiley's previous experience was research-oriented, so of course I handed her power tools and offered to expand her skills! Kiley brought positive energy every day, attended to every task assigned, and contributed to the success of several major projects. In addition to building a turnpike at Mast Landing, Kiley helped install a new bog bridge at Fields Pond and replace a 20-foot bridge at Hamilton Audubon Sanctuary. Rain or shine, we've got it all covered! Although her time at Maine Audubon was short, I am glad I was able to connect with her through Trails.
With Hamilton still fresh in my mind, I continue to encourage people to get outdoors and explore if you are able. The changing of the seasons has provided some moments of wonder, and for me, it's these little sights and sounds that make challenging days more bearable. Hamilton was definitely bursting with color after the recent rain. The moss was lush and vibrant, allowing the mushrooms to really pop.
On Friday October 24th, three eager volunteers helped build the final Hamilton footbridge of the season. At the site of this 12-foot-long bridge was once just a single board that had sunk into the stream. Today it is a 4-foot-wide bridge that will have an access ramp when completed.
The addition of this structure allows for safer passage and also helps protect the area by allowing water to flow properly underneath.
We made it through the summer season and that feels good. I hope these fall days bring some measure of calm. As always, please reach out to us if you have any questions, comments, or concerns about the sanctuary!