Get started on New Year's resolutions with hikes

Nov 28, 2017

On New Year's Day, several area environmental organizations are holding special New Year's walks and hikes to encourage people to get outdoors.

he Lloyd Center will host its 27th annual New Year's Day beach walk on January 1, 2018, at Gooseberry Neck in Westport.

The Lloyd Center's Research Director Mark Mello will lead a hike of Gooseberry Neck Beach, focusing on coastal ecology and bird identification. He will identify winter waterfowl and 'washed up' marine life. The outing is informal, and those who simply want to walk are welcome to attend too.

The event is free to attend, and pre-registration is not required. Those who plan on attending should dress warmly and wear hiking boots. Binoculars and cameras are also recommended.

Visit lloydcenter.org or contact Mark Mello at either (508) 990-0505 x 22, or markmello@lloydcenter.org for more information.

Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary will hold a New Year's Day beach ramble, beginning at 2 p.m. at the sanctuary's 1280 Horseneck Road location.

Mass Audubon volunteer naturalist Doug Hlousek will lead the hike along the sanctuary's Beach Loop Trail and provide education on topics including the unique ecosystem of the Allens Pond area.

The beach ramble is free to attend, and advance registration is required. Visit massaudubon.org or call (508) 636-2437 to register.

Dartmouth Natural Resources Trust's New Year's Day walk will be held at Destruction Brook Woods, 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. Visit dnrt.org for more information.