We now have a full sized, detailed map showing ALL the properties under CLT's conservation umbrella. Click on the image to access and download the full sized, high resolution map.

Below is a list of properties that the Charlestown Land Trust owns in fee. Together they total 211.31 acres! While we invite you to visit any of the properties owned by CLT, please note that Mill Pond Preserve is currently the only property that has an official trail system.

"Mill Pond at Morning" courtesy of Bill McCusker

Mill Pond Preserve was originally part of The American Fish Culture (AFC) business and was called the Cross' Mill Hatchery. AFC was based 10 minutes north of Cross' Mills in Carolina, RI. Between 1900 and 1950, the business expanded to include the Carolina Hatchery, Tanner Trout Farm, Perryville Hatchery and a Berkshire-based hatchery. The Cross' Mills Hatchery was their last acquisition added about 1950. Cross' Mills drew water from Mill Pond which has springs that are up to forty feet deep and ten feet wide. These springs produce 200 gallons per minute at a steady temperature of 48 degrees year-round, perfect for raising rainbow trout. During the 1940's-1950's, AFC was New England's largest private hatchery, shipping two hundred thousand pounds of trout to fishing clubs region wide and to the Fulton Street Fish Market in NYC.

Over time there was a steady decline in private hatchery business so that in 1995 AFC was ready to sell. According to Oliver Hazard, the then President of AFC, the property was within an "eyelash" of being sold to the Suntory Group of Japan. With 6 hours to go, the Nature Conservancy stepped in and the land was saved. Ultimately, the land was transferred to CLT and was opened to the public on Earth Day 2005. Mill Pond Preserve is located on Route 2 (Charlestown, RI), just north of the Route 1 intersection. Going north it is the first driveway on the right after the entrance to Simple Pleasures. Look for signs. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes and are encouraged to bring binoculars. No restroom facilities on site. You can find a trail map of Mill Pond Preserve here.

Our trails and properties are all managed by volunteers. If you would like to be notified of property cleanup days and trail maintenance opportunities, please email angela@charlestownlandtrust.org.

If you are looking to visit any of our properties, we ask that you plan your visit between dawn and dusk and pack out whatever you pack in. Leashed pets are allowed. Fires, camping, hunting, and wheeled vehicles are prohibited.

Interested in making a difference and donating your land? Reach out to our Executive Director, Angela Brunetti, at angela@charlestownlandtrust.org