Field Trip – Cromwell Meadows Wildlife Management Area

This WMA in Middlesex County is situated along the confluence of the Mattabesset and Coginchaug Rivers and parallels Rt. 9. A wide dirt/gravel path through the area provides good walking access. Snow or snowmelt may be on the path so wear sturdy, water-resistant boots. The wetland supports large numbers of wintering and spring migrant waterfowl, including Wood Duck, Northern Pintail, Green-winged Teal, and Common Merganser. We also seek views of nesting Bald Eagle, woodpeckers, and Eastern Bluebird. Wood Frogs and Spring Peepers are expected to provide a background chorus. Plan your travel route in advance because access to the site is obscure. One option for directions: From either direction of Interstate 91, take the exit for Rt. 9 South. From Rt. 9-S take Exit 19 (Rt. 372, West St). Go left at the end of ramp and proceed 0.3 mi. to the second traffic light where you turn right onto Hicksville Rd. Drive 0.9 miles to the WMA entrance on the right, which tunnels under Rt. 9 and opens onto a good-sized parking lot. (Hicksville Rd. becomes South St. at one point). Or set your GPS to Diane Drive in Cromwell which is directly opposite the WMA entrance. For a pdf map and description of the site, go to the website <conservect.org> and the pamphlet, “Mattabesset River Canoe/Kayak Trail.”

Leader: Steve Broker: 203-747-6843 or Ls.Broker@cox.net