In Maryland, October is WALKTOBER, a month to spotlight Maryland pedestrians’ safety, health, and commuting options. This year, ESLC is hosting three 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 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 take time to gather, then walk for about an hour. Please bring water and wear comfortable walking or hiking shoes. The preserve’s trails are clear and well-marked but are natural and sometimes cross over roots, thick leaves, and wet ground.