Madison's Newest Eagle Scout Wants You To Take A Hike! ... With Him

Madison's newest Eagle Scout, Stephen Hansen, attended the Board of Selectmen meeting Monday, led the Pledge of Allegiance, and then asked the selectmen, and citizens attending the meeting to go take a hike ... at the Madison Land Conversation Trust's Neck River Uplands. 

That is where hikers and nature lovers will find Hansen's project, wooden steps and stone stairs, at the trailhead on Princess Drive, just north of the route 79/80 traffic circle. The new steps and stairs connect the community with a trail that meanders by three streams that flow into the Neck River, along with upland plateaus. 

Prior to the completion of Hansen's project, the entrance was potentially hazardous. But no more. The project, a long time in the planning, was completed in one weekend with the help of about 20 to 25 volunteers organized by Hansen, who also raised donations to help support the project. 

After being introduced at the Board of Selectmen meeting, and leading the Pledge of Allegiance, Hansen told the board members, "I'd appreciate it if you all went for a hike!" 

This elicited laughter from the group. Go take a hike? 

Yes, Hansen said, smiling, that is exactly what he wanted.

In fact, you [yes, you, Madison Patch reader] and the whole community are invited. Here is the information on a hike Hansen has organized with the help of the Madison Land Conservation Trust, along with a list of other hikes planned. Save the dates: 

Birding Hike on the Neck River Uplands NorthSunday, May 5 at 1:00 PM

Join ornithologist and wildlife painter Mike DiGiorgio & Eagle Scout Stephen Hansen as we search for spring migrants.  Along the way we’ll stop to view the newly-installed entrance to the preserve constructed by Stephen Hansen.  This lovely trail features three streams that flow into the Neck River, as well as upland plateaus.  Waterproof footwear is recommended.Meet at the trailhead on Princess Drive, just north of the route 79/80 traffic circle.  Find a detailed trail map here.

Sunday, June 9 at 1:00 PM: Amphibian Hike on the Blinnshed Loop – lead by Kealoha Freidenburg & Dave Skelly

Sunday, September 15 at 1:00 PM: Marsh Walk at the Ox Pasture – lead by Julie Ainsworth & Chuck LandreySunday, October 13Autumn Moonlight Walk on the Garvin Trail – lead by Leslie Sude

Sunday, November 3 at 1:00 PM: Shepherd’s Trail Hike – lead by Barry Haigis, Eric Alletzhauser & Tom Paul