ECTA February News: More Snow, More Fun on the Trails!

Well, we can’t complain that we’re lacking snow for our Ski/Showshoe to The Village Pancake House event on Sunday! � With everything that’s already fallen, plus more due Saturday afternoon, it’s setting up to be a great day. � If you’d rather keep warm and stay inside, why not kick start your spring cleaning and organize your tack room or barn? � The 19th Annual Equine Expo is looking for donations of horse clothing, tack and equipment, barn supplies, riding apparel, equestrian-themed houseware items, gift certificates, artwork, collectibles – any condition!

A Great Hike, Despite the Weather!

Fifteen enthusiastic trail walkers joined us on January 18th for the annual Hike to The Black Cow. � Questionable weather in the morning prevented more from coming out, but the group that started from Appleton Farms trekked through rain, sleet and snow, arriving with big smiles at The Black Cow where they warmed up, dried out and enjoyed a hearty lunch with new friends!

DCR Partnership Matching Grant Received

ECTA and the staff at Bradley Palmer State Park in Topsfield and Hamilton collaborated last spring to apply for the Partnership Matching Grant given by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation. � Our project was approved last month, and we will be working with the park to resurface the Highland Street parking lot, install a new kiosk and improve the trail head leading into the park from this lot. � We plan to start this project as soon as the weather allows!

Go Play in the Snow!

Winter vacation for many of our area schools is coming up next week – the perfect time to get out on the trails and play in the snow! � Conditions are prefect for skiing and snowshoeing. � The woods are beautiful, but don’t forget about the dune trails at Crane Beach that can also be spectacular this time of year, or the Danvers/Topsfield Rail Trail that is great for cross country skiing. � The resident chickadees at the Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary always appreciate visitors, especially the ones that bring a snack!

You can also join our friends at DCR who are holding a “Build a Snowman Day” at Bradley Palmer State Park on Wednesday, February 19, 2013 from 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. � How better to spend the day than to gather ’round the fire and build your snowman with friends and family. Come on down with all your snowman making tools and features for this fun-filled day! � For more information call (617) 828-1728. � �

Thank You to Our Lead Sponsors!

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