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Field Farmstead

History:

The first preserve acquired by the Putnam Land Trust, Field Farmstead was donated by Helen Field Gatling in 1971. This 21-acre parcel was once a part of the farm belonging to her ancestor Samuel Field. Mr. Field was the first settler of record in the Town of Southeast.

Exploring The Preserve:

Years of farming provide the opportunity to observe the process of natural succession from field to mature beech-maple woodland habitat. Gradually, much of the field is changing as shrubs have begun to fill in what will eventually become forest. The wooded trail leads to great whale-back ridges. These outcroppings were formed millions of years ago by the earth’s cooling crust being thrust upward. Erosion has collapsed the domes, forming a natural amphitheater.

Dominated by White and Black Oaks, the preserve includes other mature hardwoods including Beech, Red Oak, Black Birch, and Sugar Maple. Witch Hazel shrubs are found here along with ground cover which includes Partridgeberry, Pipsissewa, Christmas Fern, and Clubmoss.

Summer wildflowers include Great Yellow Mulleins. Often six feet tall, their golden yellow spikes tower over the larger grasses. Their seeds are a favorite of American Goldfinches. Milkweed provides food for butterflies. The blue flowers of Chicory and the lacy white flowers of wild carrot, known as Queen Anne’s Lace, are abundant

About the Trail:

1. White Oak - SOS plaque, 0.2 mile

2. Whaleback Ridges, 0.26 mile

3. Amphitheater, 0.3 mile

4. Witch Hazel, 0.35 mile

5. Forested Area, 0.4 mile

6. Wildflower Fields, 0.57 mile

Access:

Located off of Field’s Lane about 1/4 mile south of its junction with Route 124 (June Road). Enter preserve from the driveway for the Brewster Ice Arena. The preserve is at the top of the hill. Markers on trees serve as guides.

Recreation:

Hiking, Snow shoeing, Cross-country skiing, Photography, Nature Study

Trail Regulations:

Please sign in before beginning your hike.Help us protect and preserve the plant and animal life found on this property by not disturbing the area, staying on the paths, and by observing the trail regulations posted at the entrance.