Thanks to all of you, SKLT has preserved thousands of acres of beautiful farmlands, woodlands, and hiking trails throughout South Kingstown. Currently, we have a big wave of land protection projects in the works – 150 acres in five different projects. Some will provide opportunities to expand our trail system. As our acreage increases, as it did this year by accepting a gift of 15-acres in Perryville, so do our stewardship responsibilities. With your help and that of many volunteers we maintain eight publicly accessible hiking trails, a very old Grist Mill, and the iconic Weeden Farm with its three plus miles of restored stone walls, all part of our demanding stewardship programs. Stewardship projects abound. 
In Kingston, the Biscuit City property is being restored with native forest understory habitat, native flowering and berry producing shrubs and wetland plants. The restoration has been made possible through several grants. On our popular Browning Woods/Kenney trail, we have cleared four acres that are being planted with native flowering plant species that benefit pollinators, and have drilled bee nest holes in tree stumps. Simply by protecting existing native habitats, conservation organizations are also protecting critical pollinator habitat. 
SKLT has endorsed whole place preservation, the preservation of the land as well as associated agricultural and cultural elements. Our historic Perry Grist Mill and grounds have undergone major maintenance and upgrade this past year, including the repair of the 125-year old turbine assembly and sluiceway. A new raised bed demonstration planting area has been constructed that will be used to grow flint corn using the Native American “Three Sisters” method of planting corn, beans and squash. According to Iroquois legend these three inseparable sisters only grow and thrive when planted together. This project is one of the many Boy Scout Eagle badge projects. Everyone is looking forward to the mill resuming operations. In June, the land trust acquired the Hale House and reunited it with the farm from which it once ‘hailed.’ The house and the land it sits on were part of the Weeden Farm – the property where the Barn is located – before construction of Rte. 1 divided the farm. The Matunuck Preservation Society was created to implement a program of lectures and events at the house. This year’s programs were a great success and next year’s schedule is sure to bring more interesting programs. How can you help? Essentially, it is you, our members, and your volunteer efforts and financial giving that allow us to carry out our management responsibilities and build strong partnerships. Please continue to support SKLT with your donations to these stewardship activities, and enjoy the benefits of healthy and productive habitats, farms, forests, and hiking trails. Regards, Michael A. Sherry, President
