Beverly, Massachusetts

Total Acres: 62

Year Conserved: 1986

Property Desciption

This property is a patchwork of former pastures that have been allowed to grow since the early 1900's. The shallow "Chatfield" soil that is found on this property discouraged human habitation and growth of hardwood trees such as maple, which require deeper soils and an adequate supply of water. However, white pine has thrived in the soil at Alt Woodland, since it can grow in arid sites and establish a root system capable of anchoring to large rocks.

Greenbelt currently manages the property to enhance wildlife populations and provide visitors with a peaceful place to walk among the pines.

Special Features

A relic white cedar swamp, known as Beaver Pond, is located at the southern edge of Alt Woodland.  These globally threatened ecosystems are native only to a very narrow strip on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. Here you will see a variety of plants and animals, including blueberry bushes,, sweet azalea, spotted turtles, and sharp-shinned hawks who make this swamp their home. 

Parking

Parking for 2 cars. The parking area is marked with a Greenbelt sign and metal gate. Please do not block the gate, and park parallel to the road.

Directions

From the North Beverly Train Station:

Travel down Dodge Street 1.4 miles, and turn right onto Grover Street. Follow Grover 0.6 mile to the entrance on the right.

From the Montserrat Train Station:

Take Route 22 East towards Hamilton for 1.7 miles, then turn left onto Grover Street. Follow Grover 0.5 mile to the entrance on the left.

Sidebar or Bubble Definition: Chatfield Soil: Soils having moderate infiltration rates even when thoroughly wetted and consisting chiefly of moderately deep to deep, moderately well drained to well drained soils with moderately fine to moderately coarse textures.