Penny Pond Trail Opens!

      Penny Pond never looked more beautiful than it did today on this rainy 4th of July.  The pond was full from all the recent precipitation, and there were a few water lilies in bloom.  Most importantly though, it was the first time I got to walk the newly opened Penny Pond Recreational Trail.  To see the official hiking trail sign (below) was a dream come true for someone who wandered these woods for decades, fearing their destruction.  Thank you so much to Jacob Burgess who spearheaded this project and to the Berwick Trails Committee who supported him.   The swamp west of the pond now has a boardwalk across it, making an area that I often struggled to traverse as a child, very accessible.  I couldn't help from getting teary as I followed the path on the way to Sullivan Street.  
    And now, it all somehow must be maintained.  There is still a lot of garbage in the woods, and the new picnic table and bench will need maintenance.  Hopefully by establishing this official trail, the Penny Pond woods will be more respected and cared for by the residents of Berwick.  Congratulations to you, Jacob; your work is a big thrill for me.  
   

Penny Pond Trail!!
     Though I was never contacted about this, I have heard that a trail through Penny Pond is being established through the efforts of locals, and I want to thank them.   The name I have dug up is Jacob Burgess, though I understand that others are also involved.   My vision was of a boardwalk through the swamp, with volunteers keeping an eye on litter and destruction of trees.    I am thrilled that some attention is being given to my beloved swamp, and offer my help should it be needed.    

Jonathan Donahue
suchandsuchaperson@hotmail.com.