Berkshire South Community Center Opens New Trail
Community residents hike the new Fountain Pond Three-Mile Hill Trail at Berkshire South Regional Community Center. |
The new trail was developed through collaborative partnerships with local organizations including Great Barrington Trails and Greenways, Berkshire Natural Resources Council and the state Department of Conservation and Recreation.
The trail provides access to a rich natural habitat and opportunities for hiking, trail running, birdwatching and environmental education and has entry points at the center and Fountain Pond.
The event began with an introductory celebration that was attended by approximately 40 individuals representing a variety of organizations throughout the community, including the partners and the Appalachian Trail and Great Barrington land conservancies, Appalachian Mountain Club, Great Barrington Rotary, Housatonic Heritage, Greenagers and Greenways.
State Sen. Benjamin Downing, D-Pittsfield, was on hand to help present awards recognizing the teen trail-building contributions coordinated by the Appalachian Mountain Club and Greenagers. After the celebration, they hiked the trail to Fountain Pond.
"This trail symbolizes the crux of what Berkshire South is all about: creating a sense of community and common purpose,” said the center's Executive Director Jenise Lucey.
Christine Ward, a member of the Lake Mansfield Alliance of Great Barrington Trails and Greenways, echoed Lucey’s sentiments. "We are especially indebted to the community trail organizations and volunteers who put in the effort to provide this trail to the community."
For more information about the trail, call 413-528-2810 or visit the center at 15 Crissey Road.