The Elms Blog
Westerly Land Trust Presentation
Preserving Our Community for Future Generations
A presentation by Westerly Land Trust (WLT) will be held onsite on Saturday, November 10th for residents and will also be open to the public. This event coincides with a new relationship between The Elms and the WLT, whose offices are located in The Industrial Trust building in downtown Westerly, close to our campus.
In October residents were able to enjoy some of the beautiful properties of the WLT when we included them in our fall scenic rides. This presentation will build on that familiarity with more details on the history of the land trust and the many pastoral and historic properties that they manage.
What is the Westerly Land Trust?
The WLT is a non-profit organization that conserves space and enhances community resources. Founded in 1987, it manages over 1,600 acres in Westerly, 11 of the 23 open spaces offer public access and trails.
Another important expansion of the trust is Urban Initiative. This partnership with the Royce Family Fund has purchased and re-used commercial properties of interest in downtown Westerly, including:
- Industrial Trust Building on High Street, housing the land trust offices
- United Theatre and Montgomery Ward buildings on Canal Street, a multi-use arts complex with a theatre, art galleries, and office space.
- Washington Trust Ice Rink, managed in partnership with Ocean Community YMCA, used for the farmer’s market in the summer; the adjacent Skate Shack building offers information, concessions and some parking.
- The Community Garden, originally a parking lot, the southern portion of this parcel now offers 10 raised beds, 4 communal garden beds, a tool shed, and a space for workshops and community gatherings.
Steadfast Stewardship
In 2017 WLT was accredited by the Land Trust Accreditation Commission; it is one of only six accredited land trusts in Rhode Island.
Obtaining this important designation further demonstrates the WLT’s commitment to the public trust as they go about conserving land in Westerly with the promise of perpetuity.
Summer Community Gardening
Residents at The Elms will be offered the opportunity to enjoy the wonderful benefits of gardening at the WLT Community Garden. As always, our staff will be there to be sure that help is always at hand while residents engage in gardening activities, attend workshops, or just enjoy the fresh air.
This Presentation is Open to the Public
Please call (401) 596-4630 to reserve a spot along with our residents to learn more about this wonderful local organization. While you are here you can also tour our facilities and learn more about The Elms.
Providing Safe, Comfortable, and Empowered Lifestyles
Enjoy the charm of victorian architecture, spacious and relaxing community rooms and outdoor spaces, a vibrant and historic downtown and local community, and award-winning care that is always close at hand.