Over the past two years, individuals have created and marked “rogue” trails in town-owned or managed parks, particularly in Bradley Park. The unauthorized work has resulted in the degradation of the natural areas within the park including, soil compaction and erosion, loss of habitat for native plants, and forest-block fragmentation that displaces wildlife. Environmental Affairs staff have attempted to close these “rouge trails” using natural forest litter and informational signage.
Unfortunately, the department’s habitat restoration efforts have been met with resistance from certain members of the public who repeatedly destroy the restoration efforts and remove informational signage. Those working against the Town’s efforts are degrading the natural environment within the park.
We hope a shared sense of stewardship will allow the Town to avoid more costly and invasive options to protect the environment of the park. Information on park trails, including mapping, is available here.
*Image courtesy CTVisit