ROCHESTER — The Rochester Land Trust has opened the Jackson-Ferreira Preserve on Quaker Lane in Rochester. 

This 21-acre property was purchased by the Rochester Land Trust in 2019 with contributions from land trust members and a grant from the Buzzards Bay Natural Estuary Grant Program.

The Jackson-Ferreira Preserve is a forested parcel composed mostly of wetlands that feed the Mattapoisett River and more than 1,200 feet of frontage on Gifford’s Pond. 

Its protection helps to preserve the water quality of the Mattapoisett River watershed, provides wildlife habitat, and contributes to the rural character of Rochester. Due to the extensive wetlands, there are no trails on the property, though the public is welcome to visit and will find a sign marking the property along Quaker Lane.

“Purchasing the Jackson-Ferreira property was a perfect fit for our mission of protecting Rochester’s rural character and natural resources,” said Matt Monteiro, president of the Rochester Land Trust. “It will now be forever protected and be a part of Rochester’s important protected water resources.” 

The property is named in honor of Lillian and Abraham Jackson and Manuel and Arminda Ferreira. The Jackson and Ferreira families owned and managed this land for generations. It was once part of a larger farmstead that included a sawmill. 

“Abraham and Lillian Jackson loved the woods and water surrounding their nearby home. Their grandchildren are pleased their memory is now embedded in this land,” the Jackson family said in a statement.

"Manuel and Arminda Ferreira's farm provided food for them and the surrounding community for over thirty years. As a child I remember berry picking with my mother and grandmother and watching the night sky with my father and grandfather.  I am very pleased that a portion of their farmland will be preserved in its natural state for others to explore and make their own memories." said their granddaughter, Gloria McCarthy.

Rochester Land Trust is an all-volunteer organization. All seven properties are open to the public for passive recreation from sunrise to sunset.

For more places to walk, visit RochesterLandTrust.org.