133 Essex Street/Chebacco Woods Gateway

In January 2026, after years of discussion, Greenbelt permanently protect 66 acres of land at 133 Essex Street in Hamilton, adjacent to Chebacco Woods. This property has long been a conservation priority, and its protection significantly expands the conserved landscape of Chebacco Woods, including a well-established trail network cherished by the community.

The varied landscape of this property includes mature forestland, dramatic rocky outcrops, vernal pools, and prominent working farmland along both Route 22 (Essex Street) and Chebacco Road. The property connects directly to the trails in Chebacco Woods, a popular year-round destination for outdoor recreation among residents of the region.

“This conservation project truly captured the community’s interest, with nearly 700 individual donors contributing — a record for any Greenbelt land campaign — and generating extraordinary support from across the region,” says Greenbelt President Chris LaPointe. “It’s incredibly heartening to see this level of enthusiasm for a project we’re so excited to bring to life.”

In addition to individual contributions, the land campaign received strong grassroots support from a range of community organizations, including Save Chebacco Trails & Watershed, the Chebacco Lake & Watershed Association, and the New England Mountain Biking Association.

Greenbelt is especially grateful to the Rich family for their partnership in conserving this land. Having owned the property for more than 67 years, the family’s willingness to work with Greenbelt has helped to ensure the permanent protection of this treasured landscape.