By Journal Inquirer Staff
September 20, 2005

Eastern Connecticut land trusts are planning several guided hikes on their properties Saturday to inform the public about the trusts.

In Manchester, hikes will be held from 9:30 to 11:15 a.m. starting at Salter's Pond, meet on Lydall Street near the town swimming pool, and from 12:15 to 2 p.m. on Case Mountain, meeting at the Case Mountain Trailhead. The Salter's Pond hike is fairly level, but the Case Mountain trail is steep in spots.

The Manchester Land Conservation Trust also will hold a walk in Vernon around Risley Pond on Lake Street from 2:30 to 3:45 p.m. Park in the lot across from Amy Drive. This is a 1-mile walk with bumpy terrain and some wet spots.

General questions about the hikes can be directed to Manchester Land Trust President Malcolm Barlow, 646-4081. On the morning of the hikes, a message will be posted at 643-9776 if the hikes are canceled due to rain. Mild drizzle will not cancel. No dogs, please.

The Northern Connecticut Land Trust will hold a hike from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Valley Falls Park in Vernon. The rain date is 1 p.m. Sunday. This is a moderate- paced 2 1/2-mile walk with moderate hills. Wear hiking boots and bring drinking water.

Also on Saturday, Sept. 24, Joshua's Tract Conservation and Historic District will hold a publication party to celebrate the release of the fourth edition of the "Joshua's Tract Walk Book." The event will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Historic Eagleville Schoolhouse, intersection of routes 32 and 275, Mansfield.

The book contains details about hiking trails, canoeing, and open-space areas owned by state and local agencies. Author Sam Dodd will sign copies, and refreshments will be served.

For details, call 429-9023 or visit the Web site at

www.joshuaslandtrust.org.

On Saturday, Oct. 1, the Bolton Land Trust will hold a hike starting at 4 p.m. in front of Town Hall. This will be a 1-mile walk on uneven ground. Bolton Town Historian Hans dePold will talk about Revolutionary War encampments on Rose Farm. No dogs. For reservations, call 643-9302.

Land trusts are nonprofit conservation organizations that help preserve open land.