Land Trust Annual Meeting

Approximately 75 residents gathered on Wednesday evening, April 29, at the Seekonk Public Library for the Seekonk Land Conservation Trust’s (SLCT) 2026 Annual Meeting. The event featured a presentation by guest speaker Rob Emlen, a retired Brown University professor, who shared insights on the historical significance and enduring craftsmanship of stone walls throughout Seekonk.

Mr. Emlen, who studies the historical landscape of rural New England, delivered a keynote presentation titled “Stone Walls of Seekonk.” His talk examined the many stone walls that wind through the wooded and open landscapes, line roadways, and mark property boundaries across town. Many of these structures date back as far as 400 years, built by early colonists as they cleared fields for farming and grazing. Most are dry walls, constructed without mortar to hold them together and were typically built waist height due to the limitations of early tools and labor. These walls have proven remarkably durable and survive as decorative historic examples — now often also recognized as property demarkations. Today, they remain a defining feature of Seekonk’s scenic and rural landscape, even as other structures have disappeared over time. Mr. Emlen’s presentation sparked strong audience interest and concluded with a lively discussion.

SLCT President Tom Webb moderated the meeting and provided an overview of the Land Trust’s accomplishments. Since its founding in 1967, SLCT has helped preserve 892 acres of land—approximately 8% of Seekonk’s total land area. These holdings include town-owned properties, land trust gifts and acquisitions, and parcels protected by agricultural and conservation restrictions. Seekonk also contains an additional nearly 200 acres preserved locally through the Audubon Society’s Caratunk Wildlife Refuge and Osamequin Farm.

At the meeting, Mr. Webb presented the Mary Wilson Conservation Award to the Seekonk Scouts Troop1 and Troop 9 in recognition of their contributions to local conservation efforts. He also noted and thanked the work of Jessie Blackledge, SLCT’s Stewardship Coordinator, who manages the active recruitment and participation of our volunteers.

Residents are encouraged to get involved in ongoing stewardship initiatives and welcome to inquire about participation in serving on the SLCT Board of Trustees. Learn more about the SLCT mission and activities at www.seekonklandtrust.org