Dartmouth Natural Resources Trust has closed the Parsons Reserve property and its daffodil field for the 2020 season, effective immediately.

According to a press release sent out by the land trust, it took the decision to close the reserve due to the Governor’s emergency order prohibiting gatherings of more than 25 people.

DNRT Executive Director Dexter Mead said that the daffodil field typically attracts 8,000 to 10,000 people over a three-week period.

“While we know that many people love the daffodils, we also know that limiting contact between people will save lives,” said Mead.

The entire Parsons Reserve will be closed. DNRT has blocked trails and will be monitoring the property to enforce the closure. Police will also be patrolling the area.

“The daffodils will be back next year,” noted DNRT Development and Outreach Specialist Kendra Murray. “In the meantime, you can enjoy our other Reserves, but pleases be sure to follow appropriate guidelines for protecting yourself and others, including not coming within six feet of another person.”

Murray also noted that as schools and recreational facilities remain closed, the land trust has seen an uptick in litter and dog poop left on its trails.

“While we are glad to see that many individuals are seeking solace in nature during this difficult time, we are also seeing a large increase in garbage left on trails and in parking areas as well as dog poop and dog poop bags left at the Reserves,” she said. “With reduced maintenance abilities, it is important that all trail users help us to keep our properties clean and safe.”

Social distancing should be observed on all trails, she added, and all dogs should be kept on leashes and their waste should be removed.

DNRT’s rules can be found at dnrt.org/rules.