NORWAY — “More than ever, we understand that access to nature is essential to our mental and physical health, and to the health of our communities,” said Korey Morgan. “We’re grateful for Norway Savings Bank’s generosity to the Western Foothills Land Trust and for supporting trail renovations that advance these crucial benefits.”
Morgan is the Executive Director of the Western Foothills Land Trust (WFLT) and its nine recreational preserves that protect over 9,000 acres of conserved land and provide more than 40 miles of public recreational trails across Oxford County as well as access to waterfront views, nature, outdoor art, and so much more.
Just two miles from Main Street in Norway, Shepard’s Farm Preserve is a beloved destination for runners, walkers, bikers, and families who utilize a multi-use trail to exercise in the natural beauty of western Maine. Set within the preserve is the half-mile, universally accessible Detert Trail that attracts individuals with mobility challenges, adults pushing strollers, and families. Visitors have the opportunity to enjoy Bernard Langlais sculptures thoughtfully nestled along the trail, as well as storybook installations that are periodically rotated to showcase a variety of illustrated children’s books.
Norway Savings Bank was happy to offer assistance to ensure the restoration and ongoing maintenance of this community gem. The financial support helped WFLT excavate the original trail, screen and reuse the stone, enlarge the trail to its original width of five feet, and reestablish the trail with new landscape fabric and additional crushed stone.
“The improved and widened trail will provide more visitors with exercise, a pastoral landscape, great Maine art, and more,” said Dan Walsh, President and CEO of Norway Savings Bank. “We’re so grateful that WFLT has organized and conducted this project efficiently and effectively, and NSB is thrilled to have played a small part in making these wonderful enhancements happen.”
For more information about the trail, the work of the Western Foothills Land Trust, and ways you can offer support, visit www.wfltmaine.org or call 207-739-2124.