​​News Release — The Nature Conservancy
June 18, 2015

Contact:
Eve Frankel
Communications Manager
[email protected]
(802) 229-4425 Ext. 101 ​
(802) 229-1347 (Fax)
nature.org/vermont
​

Famous for its wild orchids now at peak bloom

Hartland, Vermont: The Nature Conservancy is pleased to announce the June 20th opening of a 460 foot, environmentally sensitive, accessible boardwalk and new parking area at Eshqua Bog. The ribbon cutting is scheduled for 9:30 and guided walks led by The Conservancy’s conservation staff, will be offered from 10-1pm.

This spectacular 40 acre sanctuary surrounds and protects an 8 acre wetland that is home to unique orchids and plants that have made Eshqua Bog a popular destination for the thousands of naturalists who visit it every year. The main attraction is the showy lady’s-slipper orchids which will be at the height of their bloom in mid-June. The boardwalk which boasts multiple viewing platforms, will be accessible to all visitors.

“This project helps us directly connect more people with nature and its treasures and benefits. We are so thankful to have had Timber and Stone’s trail building expertise to ensure that great care was taken in respecting the environment while responsibly opening up the trail to more visitors,” stated Heather Furman, State Director, Nature Conservancy in Vermont

“The new boardwalk and entrance trail provides equal access to all visitors who seek an opportunity to view this unique wetland. While the trail was built to comply with accessibility standards, we were committed to creating a curvilinear boardwalk that beckons users to explore further,” said Josh Ryan, Principal, Timber & Stone LLC

Come explore with The Nature Conservancy staff as your hosts on Saturday, June 20th from 9:30-1pm.

The Nature Conservancy in Vermont is a leader in safeguarding the natural resources of the Green Mountain State. We have conserved 300,000 acres of land, over 1200 miles of shoreline, and manage and maintain 55 natural areas. The Vermont chapter is proud to be connecting land, water, wildlife over 50 years. To learn more and support our important work, please visit: www.nature.org/vermont  or follow us on facebook.com/TNCVT  and twitter.com/vtnature.org