In Maryland, October is WALKTOBER, a month to spotlight Maryland pedestrians’ safety, health, and commuting options. This year, ESLC is hosting four walks where attendees will enjoy fresh air, autumn foliage, and an inside look into our local land conservation and land use and policy work.

Our first of four walks will be held on the official Walk Maryland Day and will be led by ESLC’s easement stewardship manager Michael Ports and ESLC’s enhanced stewardship manager Larisa Prezioso at the Lynch Preserve in Caroline County. Donated to Eastern Shore Land Conservancy and permanently protected with the Maryland Environmental Trust in 1999, the Lynch Preserve sits at the mouth of Robins Creek along the Choptank River. Thanks to the constant maintenance of many volunteers and passionate neighbors, the Lynch Preserve provides public access to trails that wind through over 200 acres of forest and wetlands with pristine water views. During the walk, Michael and Larisa will illustrate the benefits and stewardship of ESLC conservation easements, diving into topics like wildlife habitat, monitoring visits, and the forested buffers that work to improve water quality.

Walkers will meet at the main trailhead, located at the end of Robins Creek Rd, just South of Denton. We will walk approximately one to two miles. The terrain is mostly flat, but there are rocks and tree roots to be mindful of, as the paths are “natural paths” and not laid with stone or paved. Registrants should consider wearing long pants, sneakers or boots, bug repellant, and water. The nearest bathroom is probably the Royal Farms just south of Denton on route 404 (about 9 minutes away). We highly recommend registrants use bathrooms before leaving, as none are provided on-site.