Upcoming Events
DEC
5
2025
FRIENDS GROUP WORK PARTY
Location TBD. Please bring hand tools and /or tools such as a large screwdriver. No RSVP required.
9am
Announcements
Fall Orange Recommendations
Fall is a wonderful time to enjoy Hopkinton’s trails, but it also marks the start of hunting season. To help everyone stay safe, we strongly recommend that all hikers, bikers, horseback riders, and other trail users wear daylight fluorescent orange when visiting our preserves during the fall and winter months.
RIDEM guidelines recommend 200 square inches of solid daylight fluorescent orange from the second Saturday in September through the last day of February, and 500 square inches during shotgun deer season. A hat typically covers about 200 square inches; a hat and vest together usually meet the 500-square-inch guideline.
If you’re unsure whether hunting is allowed on a nearby property, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and wear orange anyway — and don’t forget to “orange” your dogs, too! Read more here.
Bear Safety Guidelines
Black bears have been seen on or near local trails. Thank you for helping to keep our trails safe.
When Hiking
Hike in groups, and keep kids close
Stay alert—avoid headphones or distractions
Make noise periodically to avoid surprising wildlife
Keep dogs on a non-retractable leash at all times—leashes safe lives!
Carry bear spray and know how to use it—it is not a repellent, do not spray clothing or gear
Pack out all food, wrappers, and trash—even apple cores
If you encounter a black bear:
DO:
Stay calm
Back away slowly
Make loud noises and appear large
Keep children and pets close
Stay with your group
DO NOT:
Approach the bear
Run or turn your back
Climb a tree
Come between a bear and its cubs
Let dogs chase or bark at bears
If a bear continues to approach, use bear spray. If a bear makes contact, do NOT play dead. Fight back aggressively.
Reporting Sightings:
To report a slight, contact RIDEM Division of Fish & Wildlife: (401) 789-0281. Please contact 911 in the event of a medical emergency.
Past Events
HOPKINTON LAND TRUST 25TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
September 13, 2025
Solitude Springs Farm
Friends and supporters gathered to celebrate 25 years of conservation with appetizers, live music, cocktails, and conversation in a beautiful farm setting.
TOWN OF HOPKINTON BUDGET REFERENDUM VOTE
June 10, 2025
Hopkinton Town Hall
Hopkinton voters approved a $2 million bond for open space land acquisition, paving the way for new conservation and habitat protection efforts.
POETRY OF THE WILD INSTALLATION CELEBRATION
June 7, 2025
Canonchet Preserve
Poetry boxes were installed as part of the national Poetry of the Wild project by ecological artist Ana Flores, created in collaboration with local poets.
Press Archive
“Uprooted” – Rhode Island PBS Weekly, May 2025
A feature on ecological artist Ana Flores and her work exploring the connections between art and landscape, including a visit to Canonchet Brook Preserve in Hopkinton and her Poetry of the Wild installations.
👉 Watch on PBS.org
“Vote to Preserve Hopkinton’s Rural Character” – The Westerly Sun, May 2025
A Letter to the Editor urging community support for the open-space bond referendum, emphasizing the importance of protecting Hopkinton’s rural landscapes and working farms.
👉 Read on The Westerly Sun