The Scarborough Land Trust has begun work at the Benjamin Farm property to provide public access and protect wildlife habitat.

On May 5, excavators began removing the remains of the old farmhouse at the front of the property on Pleasant Hill Road. The building had deteriorated significantly over the years and was beyond repair, according to a press release.

“We had the privilege of meeting with 90-year-old members of the Robinson family whose ancestors originally owned this landmark farmhouse,” said Kathy Mills, executive director at the land trust. “They shared wonderful stories and photographs that have helped us tell the rich farming history of this beautiful property.”

A mowed path has also been created to provide a temporary trail for public access. It starts at the small turnout on Pleasant Hill Road and goes up to the metal barn. Visitors are asked to stick to the mowed path and leash their dogs.

In the coming months, the land trust will begin working with contractors and volunteers to remove debris on the property and develop a small parking lot, according to Mills.

In addition, the trust has hired FB Environmental, a consulting firm, to conduct a natural resource inventory of the property. The inventory will then be used to help make decisions regarding the best use of the property.

In coming months, the land trust will develop policies on dogs, bikes, hunting and other uses incorporating input from two community conversations held this winter at Wentworth School.

“We’re excited to be finally working on public access, trails and wildlife areas, after our 15-year effort to purchase and conserve this gem of a property,” Mills said. “More than 50 people have signed up to volunteer for a Neighborhood Stewardship Group, and our new stewardship coordinator, Theresa Galvin, will be contacting them soon about (upcoming) projects.”

– Kate Irish Collins

Tree & farmhouse