HOPKINTON – The R.I. Department of Environmental Management acquired 58 acres of forestland in Hopkinton for $250,000 for permanent protection in a location abutting the Rockville Management Area, the DEM announced Thursday.
The property sits within 2,000 acres of contiguous protected land owned by the DEM, the Audubon Society of Rhode Island and The Nature Conservancy.
“We invite visitors to explore this beautiful forested land in Hopkinton and soak in the wonders of nature,” stated DEM Director Janet Coit. “Rockville Management Area is a delightful place to hike, do some bird-watching, or simply enjoy spending time outdoors. I’m thrilled that we’ve been able to preserve this valuable parcel of property in the southwest region of the state for public recreation. Rhode Islanders truly enjoy these special places and the positive benefit these natural assets provide to our quality of life.”
The property includes 1,300 feet of frontage on Blue Pond, which was the last remaining unprotected land on the pond, and is open to the public for recreational activities.
The property was purchased from Marjorie and Christopher R. Allen, the DEM said, with funds from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Wildlife Restoration Program.
