Check out backpacks at the Scarborough Public Library. The backpacks, donated by the Scarborough Land Trust, are designed for use to explore the great outdoors. Courtesy photo

SCARBOROUGH — Three Nature Backpacks were presented by Scarborough Land Trust to the Scarborough Public Library.

These backpacks are designed for families to check out of the library for day trips to Scarborough Land Trust preserves.

Scarborough Library Director Nancy E. Crowell said, “From our roof’s electricity-generating solar panels to our EV charging station, pesticide-free lawn and windows outfitted with deterrents to prevent bird strikes, our Library has seriously practiced environmental stewardship through the years. This collaboration with the Scarborough Land Trust is a fun way to further that commitment, encouraging the families both organizations serve to learn about an enjoy the natural world in their community.”

Each backpack is specific to a property and is themed to a specific type of animal or ecosystem.

Backpack users can create art, do puzzles, and read books about nature. At Blue Point Preserve, people can walk down an old lane to explore the marsh, use binoculars to see marsh birds such as egrets and herons, investigate the property during a five senses activity, or read about what is found along the nature trail.

Pleasant Hill Preserve is an old farm with fields full of bees, grasshoppers, birds, and wildflowers. Use the bug guides and magnifying glasses to identify insects in the fields. Explore the property’s rich history and walk the trails.

Fuller Farm boasts trails through fields and forests for all ages and abilities. Measure a tree with the tools provided, learn about woodland ecosystems, chase waterfalls, and complete a fun
puzzle.

These backpacks feature books, puzzles, nature ID, history, and many more fun activities for the whole family — and each bag is different. Other contents in the backpack include maps, coloring supplies, “Leave no trace” information card, an item list, and Junior Steward stickers.

Each backpack is available to check out from the Scarborough Public Library. To ensure all materials stay in the backpack for the next person to use, library employees will make sure that all the equipment is safely back in the backpack upon return.

Scarborough Land Trust Executive Director Andrew Mackie, said “We are constantly looking for new methods to encourage families to enjoy the outdoors. Here at the Scarborough Land Trust, we already realize how important nature is to our physical and mental health and we want parents and children to be able to experience the same wonder and amazement that we have while out on our preserves. We hope these three backpacks will add a new level of engagement for our community.”

Learn more about this project online at https://scarboroughlandtrust.org/nature-backpacks/

For more information about the Scarborough Land Trust and how to become a supporter, visit www.scarboroughlandtrust.org or call (207) 289-1199. For more information about the Scarborough Public Library and how to become a supporter, please visit www.scarboroughlibrary.org or call (207) 396-6266.

The Scarborough Land Trust is a community based, non-profit organization focused on conserving natural and
agricultural land. In addition, the Land Trust owns and manages over 1,500 acres, actively managing the land for the benefit of people and wildlife. Seven properties are open to the public and have trail systems. For more
information on protecting your land, upcoming education programs and events, volunteering, or to make a
donation, contact the Scarborough Land Trust at 207-289-1199 or info@scarboroughlandtrust.org. To visit the
website go to www.scarboroughlandtrust.org.