Winter 2022-2023 Newsletter

Land Acquisitions in Bow Raise Concerns

If you haven’t seen it, you need to get out more. Across Bow, new land clearing, for sale signs, and new construction show that over the last two years a new surge in land development is underway.

The ongoing or completed sale of more than 350 acres of forest land in the last two years is a major change for our town. And remember, Bow comprises only 18,000 acres total, so that is 2 percent of the total land in Bow gone in just two years. And possibly more than 40 percent of the total remaining undeveloped land. This situation has some concerned that the rural nature of Bow is undergoing an unplanned and permanent change. (Read more)

Are You A Member of Bow Open Spaces? More information HERE!

High School Senior Takes to the Trails!

Bow High School (BHS) student Luke Insana focused his Senior Project on providing substantial improvements to the Glacial Erratic Trail in the Nottingcook Forest. Luke spent at least 35 hours in the forest, removing rocks and roots, and constructing a bridge in a low-lying wet area of the trail.

“This is a project that I will extremely enjoy working on because of my enthusiastic interest in being one with nature,” said Luke in his Senior Seminar Proposal, “as well as my burning desire to go out of my way to work on and maintain the trails that are being used.”

Luke said he has often found peace and happiness while using the trail system in the forests of Bow, and expected his work to make it easier for others to access these spaces.

“I hope to bring further insight into how using the Glacial Erratic Trail will allow for several individuals in the community to be in a much healthier and more satisfying state of mind,” said Luke in his proposal. “In my past experiences, being on several trails in Bow has allowed me to be my true self and has been one of the main influences towards my happiness mindset.”

BHS students approaching Senior Seminar are invited to contact Bow Open Spaces (BOS) if they are interested in considering out-of-doors research as part of a project. Send inquiries to info@bowopenspaces.com.

Pictured L to R: Luke Insana; BOS Director Bob Dawkins; and, BOS Member Tom O’Donovan.

Support the work of Bow Open Spaces by becoming a MEMBER

Stewardship Work is Part of What We Do!

A part of Bow Open Spaces’ responsibilities is to assure that the property lines of conserved properties are marked. Director Bob Lux and Members Paul Shagoury and Carol Niegisch were part of a team in November at the Crescent Drive easement. Using maps and compass, the team members identified and marked the boundaries. If you would like to participate in a future Stewardship walk, contact Stewardship Director Eric Thum.

Safety on the Trails - It’s up to you!

Don’t let the lack of snow fool you. There’s plenty of winter ahead, including snow and ice. But that doesn’t mean forgoing your hikes. Walking safely on icy and snow-covered hiking trails requires a combination of proper footwear, balance, and caution. Here are some tips to help you navigate these conditions:

Wear proper footwear: Shoes or boots with good traction are essential for walking on ice. Look for shoes or boots with soles made of materials like rubber or Vibram that provide good grip on slippery surfaces. Avoid shoes with smooth, hard soles, as they can be slippery on ice.
Take short, shuffling steps: When walking on ice or snow, it's important to take short, shuffling steps rather than long strides. This helps to reduce the risk of slipping or falling.
Keep your weight over your feet: When walking on slippery surfaces, it's important to keep your weight evenly distributed over your feet. Avoid leaning too far forward or back, as this can throw off your balance.
Use your arms to balance: If you start to feel unstable, use your arms to help maintain your balance. Hold them out to the sides or in front of you to help keep you upright.
Use caution when walking on slopes: If you're walking on a slope, be extra cautious. Walk across the slope rather than up or down it, as this will help to reduce the risk of slipping or falling.
Use trekking poles: Trekking poles can help to provide additional stability and support when walking on slippery surfaces. Consider using them to help you maintain your balance.
Take your time: It's better to take your time and be careful than to rush and risk a fall. Be patient and take breaks as needed to rest and regain your balance.

New Trail Signs Installed

Bow Open Spaces Directors Bob Dawkins (pictured) and Eric Thum braved the snow and cold of early December to install two trail signs along the Crescent View Trail, leading into the Nottingcook Forest. Constructing signs and maintaining trails for the enjoyment are tasks that are supported by your membership support. Thank you!

Seen Any Birds Lately?

New England is home to a diverse array of bird species, and the types of birds you might see in the woods during the winter months will depend on a variety of factors such as the specific location, habitat, and weather conditions. Here are a few examples of birds that you might see in the woods of Bow (or your yard!) during the winter:

American robin: American robins are a common sight in many parts of New England during the winter months. They can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, fields, and gardens.
Black-capped chickadee: Black-capped chickadees are small, active birds that are commonly found in New England woods during the winter. They are known for their distinctive "chick-a-dee-dee" call, and they are often seen at backyard bird feeders.
Northern cardinal: Northern cardinals are bright red birds that are commonly found in New England woods during the winter. They are attracted to bird feeders and can often be seen perched on tree branches or foraging for seeds on the ground.
Red-tailed hawk: Red-tailed hawks are large, carnivorous birds that can be found in a variety of habitats throughout New England. They are often seen perched on utility poles or tree branches, searching for prey.
White-breasted nuthatch: White-breasted nuthatches are small, active birds that are commonly found in New England woods during the winter. They have a distinctive "yank-yank" call and are known for their ability to climb up and down tree trunks headfirst.
Downy woodpecker: Downy woodpeckers are small, black-and-white birds that can be found in New England woods during the winter. They are often seen at backyard bird feeders, where they feed on suet and seeds.
Dark-eyed junco: Dark-eyed juncos are small, sparrow-like birds that are commonly found in New England woods during the winter. They are known for their distinctive "chip" call and are often seen foraging for seeds on the ground.

Meetings of the Bow Open Spaces Board of Directors

The Bow Open Spaces Board of Directors typically meet the first Tuesday of each month (September through June) at 6:30 p.m. at the Baker Free Library.

The meetings are open to all. Please join us!