Thirty years ago, after beginning to feel the effects of encroaching development on Boxford's open lands and trails, a group of equestrians and walkers formed the Boxford Trails Association. From that small group of dedicated riders and hikers, the Boxford Trails Association grew and in 1995 the organization's name was changed to the Boxford Trails Association/Boxford Open Land Trust (BTA/BOLT) to reflect its dual - purposes of trail preservation and land conservation. Over the past three decades, BTA/BOLT has dedicated itself to preserving the nature of Boxford, including important land and wildlife habitat - fields, forests, wetlands and trails. BTA/BOLT is living proof that great efforts can result from small beginnings, as the group has helped permanently protect over 1,100 acres of open space and more than XX miles of trails for Boxford citizens, their families and visitors to enjoy.

In September 2008, BTA/BOLT, Inc. received accredited land trust status from the Land Trust Alliance > (LTA), the only organization dedicated to the effectiveness and sustainability of the nation's land trusts and their use of conservation easements. The accreditation seal is a mark of distinction, and indicates that BTA/BOLT meets national standards for excellence, upholds the public trust and ensures that conservation efforts are permanent. The accreditation is formal recognition of the high standards of ethics and practices to which we have held ourselves since our inception more than 30 years ago, and we display the accreditation seal with pride and enthusiasm.

We are a tax-exempt, all volunteer organization, supported by the membership dues and contributions of over 300 families. We invite you to join us today >, as we continue to work to preserve land and habitat, and encourage use of the trails for fitness, education and general health purposes.

List of officers and directors:

Officers

• Nancy Merrill, Chair
• Natasha Grigg, President
• Judy Gore, Vice President
• David Ingalls, Treasurer
• Stephen Davis, Secretary

Directors

• Alison Chase
• Jean Dewberry
• Reg Elwell
• Paul French
• George Horner
• Bev Ingalls
• Mary Ellen Iorio
• Andrew Plucinski
• Barbara Shade
• Angela Steadman
• Mary Beth Stevens