Francis C. Carter Preserve Nature Programs

Francis C. Carter Memorial Preserve © Cheryl Wiitala Download a trail map (.pdf, 1.5 MB)

What to Bring and Wear
Please bring along sunscreen and bug spray.  Light colored pants, long sleeves and sturdy covered shoes are recommended.  Field guides, binoculars and cameras are always beneficial while enjoying the outdoors.

How to Prepare for a Walk in the Woods and Fields
Be aware that ticks and mosquitoes are common in Rhode Island and can carry disease that can be transmitted to humans. However, sensible precautions can limit this possibility and make your visit more enjoyable.  It is recommended that you:

• Wear long pants and a long sleeved shirt of a light color.
• Tuck pant cuffs into socks.
• Stay on trails and keep away from brush and long grass.
• Use an insect repellent on your clothing and on exposed skin.
• Bring water, especially if the weather is hot.
• Wear a sun hat and use sunscreen.
• Where sturdy covered shoes, not sandals.
• Afterwards, take off outdoor clothing; brush off outside and check for ticks on your clothes and skin.  Wash clothes in hot water separately and put in dryer for half an hour.

Note: No collecting is allowed on Nature Conservancy land.  Be careful, responsible trail users.  Please obey the rules of the preserve. Enjoy the outdoors and treat it as you would have someone treat you.

Francis C. Carter Preserve Walks for July 2008

 Tuesday, July 15   7:00 pm

Whip-poor-will Walk

 We’ll listen for the song of these unusual nocturnal birds, heard every evening at the Carter Preserve. We’ll also expect to see swallows and dragonflies hunting over the open field. Bring a flashlight and meet at the parking lot on Old Mill Road.

Tuesday, July 22   6:30 pm

Family Evening Walk

The forest is a pleasant place to bring the family in the evening. Bring a magnifying glass and a flashlight, and we’ll see what interesting creatures we can find among the stone walls and oak woods.  Meet at the parking lot on Route 112.

Saturday, July 26   10:00 am

Children's Scavenger Hunt       

We’ll look up, down, and all around, counting on young eyes to spot animal signs, funny-looking insects, and other critters of the forest.  Meet at the parking lot on Route 112.