WELCOME, ROCK RIVER VISITORS
 |
 |
Rock River Preservation, Inc. Purchases 21 AcresOn Tuesday, November 20, 2018, Rock River Preservation Inc. Treasurer Hugh Russell signed closing documents that placed 21 acres of the Robert Swartz property along Rock River under the ownership of RRP, the nonprofit organization formed thirteen years ago by gay men who dreamed this goal might someday be achieved.
This historic transaction was made possible by generous donations from gay men across the country and Canada, some of whom have been gathering on this land for decades, some of whom made their way there for the first time this summer. As we approach the fiftieth anniversary of Stonewall in 2019, this purchase takes on added significance, reminding us that Rock River is a national gay landmark that provided (and continues to provide) a safe haven for gay men in challenging times. “This is a momentous occasion,” RRP Board Chair Thom Chiofalo wrote to donors in anticipation of the closing, “because this will ensure that the land will remain as it has been in the past: natural and undeveloped. The Rock River experience will be as you have always known it to be: a space where men gather and commune with other men and nature. The fear that someone will buy the land and restrict its use and access is now a thing of the past.” For perspective on the sale of this land by Robert Swartz and his daughter Jennifer to RRP, read the feature story by Scott Kearnan in Boston Spirit magazine and visit our "Land Purchase" page. Thank you to the 200 individuals and couples whose donations made this possible! A Call for Volunteers
Thom Chiofalo has served as chair of Rock River Preservation, Inc. for most of the past decade. He’s been the chief trail fixer for even longer. He will be stepping down from the RRP board within coming months, but he will continue to take a leading role in stewardship of the trails, chairing a volunteer committee of like-minded folks devoted to making visits as safe as possible. Following is a message from Thom asking you to consider joining him in this effort.
Hello River users. It is obvious that there is need for improvements to the trail coming into the swimming sites along Rock River. Elsewhere on this page it's noted in red that the trail is a “wilderness experience,” but the last couple of years and Topical Storm Irene have increased the difficulty in a few more spots. Plus, there is need to repair the first stair case at the third hole. Another area needing labor is the lower path around the second hole’s “Hug Me Rock,” which was damaged in a flood in October 2017. Having enjoyed the past fourteen years maintaining the trail as best I could with occasional help from many, I find my life has taken me away from my chances to enjoy the river. While I will head up the trail volunteer group in 2019 with RRP’s newest board member, Preston Samuel, being my assistant for the first year, there is much need for many hands to make the necessary improvements. Besides two of us, three other frequent river users have mentioned their interest in giving time to these projects. This is an opportunity to participate in a good old fashioned work bee or communal work project that will increase everyone’s sense of community and ownership and be a source of pride for years to come with each person who passes along the trail. If you’re willing to lend your time and efforts to improving the trail, Please, email rockriverpreservation@gmail.com and give us your name. Thank you in advance! Rock River and Rock River Preservation, Inc.
Rock River is a tributary of the West River, running its entire course within Windham County, Vermont. The river provides essential habitat to a wide range of plants, animals and aquatic life, which depend on a clean water environment. As the river winds downstream, it has also traditionally provided sanctuary and solace to varied groups of users who prize the cool, clean water and warm rocks for summertime recreation.
Rock River Preservation, Inc., in partnership with the Vermont Land Trust, is committed to protecting this natural environment through a conservation easement. We users are all the caretakers of this special place. To ensure that the environment remains healthy, that everyone’s rights are respected and that all may continue to enjoy the tranquil beauty of this special place, please join us in observing the following guidelines:
Rock River Preservation wishes you an enjoyable visit.
IF YOU’RE HERE, IT’S YOURS! PLEASE HELP OTHERS FOLLOW THE GUIDELINES TO KEEP OUR RIVER BEAUTIFUL Rock River Preservation Inc., PO Box 1095, Brattleboro, VT 05302 rockriverpreservation@gmail.com |
|
