Since becoming co-owners of the 80-acre Shoolman Preserve opposite 199 New Bedford Road, members of the Rochester Land Trust and the Mattapoisett Land Trust have been at work getting it ready for the public. A kiosk and parking area have been installed, a total of 1½ miles of trails have been opened to make a circular walk with spurs to a holly grove and a view to the river, and an agreement with the Rochester Conservation Commission was made to extend the trails onto its previously landlocked property.

Now both land trusts are hosting a walk on the property. The land was a gift of Edith and Eliot Shoolman in 1984 for the enjoyment of the woods. An introductory walk will be held on Sunday, May 15 at 11 a.m.