As a unique benefit of membership, the Foundation invites you and its other up-to-date members to explore Foundation properties this season with staff from our Properties Maintenance and Science & Stewardship Departments. Select a fun and informational walk at one of the Foundation-owned destinations. On our Mornings for Members (MFM) walks, participants are presented with insights into the history, flora, fauna, and landscape features of the property. On our Ecology Excursions, the locations and topics discussed feature the ecological resource management and research being undertaken by the Foundation’s Science & Stewardship Department. All programs bring members into contact with the special places and rare resources they are helping to protect.
Please note that this program is reserved for up-to-date members of the Foundation. If you are not currently a member or are unsure about your membership status, you may call us at 508- 228-2884 or enroll here.
General Information for Walks and Scoots
- Due to the popularity of the program, reservations may only be made for a limited number of walks. Requests for additional walks will be wait-listed so that we may accommodate as many members as possible. Reservations for the walks are on a first-come, first-served basis and sometimes fill up quickly. If your plans change, please let us know as soon as possible.
- Once your reservation is processed, we will send you an email to confirm the availability of space on your requested walk and directions to the meeting location. If you do not have access to e-mail, please call the Foundation’s office (508-228-2884) to submit your reservation request.
- Walks begin promptly at 8:30 a.m. and last approximately two hours. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared for inclement weather.
- Participants are also encouraged to bring water, bug repellent and sun protection.
2024 Mornings for Members Calendar
Sign up by clicking the date of the walk you are interested in attending.
Friday, June 7th- Squam Swamp
(1.8 mi) Unique trees and vibrant seasonal sights await in the forests of Squam. Prepare for exploring some adventurous, mucky, uneven trails while you hear about the ecological bounty tucked in the vernal pools and Red Maple swamps of this striking hardwood forest.
Friday, June 14th- Windswept Bog
(1.3 mi) Following the recent completion of Phase 1 of our watershed-level wetland restoration of this former cranberry farm, we will discuss the bog’s history, showcase the work that just took place in early 2024, explain what Phase 2 of the project will entail this coming winter, and look forward to what Windswept could look like within the next several years post-restoration. Hear about how we are improving the ecological resources while maintaining public access to this beloved property.
Friday, June 21st- Ram Pasture
(2.5 mi) Traverse the southernmost end of our popular Sanford Farm and Ram Pasture property and see why this is a must visit for many. Take in the spectacular views of the ocean and open grasslands in bloom while you hear about the rare and endangered species that thrive with our protection and management.
Wednesday, June 26th- Tawpawshaw Bog & Shawkemo Highlands
(2.4 mi) This walk explores a scenic, hilly area in the Western section of Middle Moors. Highlights include freshwater ponds, interesting plant species, and stunning views of the Moors and Nantucket Harbor.
Saturday, July 6th- Windswept Bog
(1.3 mi) Following the recent completion of Phase 1 of our watershed-level wetland restoration of this former cranberry farm, we will discuss the bog’s history, showcase the work that just took place in early 2024, explain what Phase 2 of the project will entail this coming winter, and look forward to what Windswept could look like within the next several years post-restoration. Hear about how we are improving the ecological resources while maintaining public access to this beloved property.
Wednesday, July 10th- Milestone Cranberry Bog
(2.4 mi) Visit this historic and fascinating Cranberry Bog in the height of summer. See the cranberry vines in bloom and hear the efforts for the future of traditional cranberry cultivation on island.
Friday, July 19th- Heart of the Middle Moors
(2.2 mi) Explore from the base of Altar Rock through the trails and hills of Norwood Farm. Follow paths through hidden valleys and view some of the distinctive kettle ponds that comprise this unique collection of rare habitats while learning about both indigenous and geologic history.
Friday, July 26th- Kettle Ponds of the Western Moors
(1.8 mi) A great introduction to the diverse wetlands across the Middle Moors. Hear about the formation and ecology of the freshwater ponds sunken into this glacial landscape, the rare plants that thrive there, and the cultural importance of kettle ponds.
Friday, August 2nd- Squam Farm
Saturday, August 3rd- Squam Farm
(1.6 mi) Explore the retired pastures, forested paths and hidden wetlands of this spectacular property. Located off Quidnet Rd, this former farmland was used for a 10-year study of the ecological effects of sheep grazing on the island’s landscape. See how rare plant species re-established in this secluded spot.
Friday, August 9th- Windswept Bog
(1.3 mi) Following the recent completion of Phase 1 of our watershed-level wetland restoration of this former cranberry farm, we will discuss the bog’s history, showcase the work that just took place in early 2024, explain what Phase 2 of the project will entail this coming winter, and look forward to what Windswept could look like within the next several years post-restoration. Hear about how we are improving the ecological resources while maintaining public access to this beloved property.
Wednesday, August 14th- Masquetuck
(1.0 mi) One of the Foundation’s real gems. Travel through a small, fascinating hardwood forest that extends to West Polpis Harbor with chances to see herons, egrets, shellfish & other inhabitants of this ecologically rich area.
Friday, August 23rd- The Serengeti
(2.0 mi) A favorite walk through one of the most iconic and breathtaking parts of the island. Every ride out to Sconset is accompanied by the sprawling views of the open grasslands of Nantucket’s outwash plains. Explore these trails by foot and see the vibrant life throughout the southern side of the Middle Moors.
Friday, August 30th- Leedsmoor
(2.7 mi) Explore the heart of the island through the covered shrublands, oak forests and old fields as you learn the stages of vegetative succession on Nantucket. Visit some sites of incredible Nantucket history hidden in the winding trails of the Middle Moors.
Wednesday, September 4th- Windswept Bog
(1.3 mi) Following the recent completion of Phase 1 of our watershed-level wetland restoration of this former cranberry farm, we will discuss the bog’s history, showcase the work that just took place in early 2024, explain what Phase 2 of the project will entail this coming winter, and look forward to what Windswept could look like within the next several years post-restoration. Hear about how we are improving the ecological resources while maintaining public access to this beloved property.
Friday, September 13th- Tupancy Links
Saturday, September 14th- Tupancy Links
(1.2 mi) Discover the history of this popular Cliff Road property and the family that made its preservation possible. Walk the trails and hear about the transition from private golf course to recovering grassland and the role it plays in restoring habitats across Nantucket.
Wednesday, September 25th- Head of the Plains
(2.1 mi) A bountiful and bustling walk through the blooming sandplain grasslands in our Head of the Plains property. Experience calm forested paths and wide open views as you learn of the incredible diversity in plants and pollinators that we have cultivated through strategic habitat management.
