Foothills Conservancy announces sensory trail update
Donated photo
Foothills Conservancy of North Carolina announced the completion and opening of an accessible walking trail through the meadow of Oak Hill Community Park & Forest, marking the latest milestone in the park’s Sensory Trail Experience Program.
Between now and the sensory station installations, FCNC’s stewardship team is working with EcoForesters of Asheville to focus on invasive species removal. The effort is part of the 8.5-acre restoration of fallow field surrounding and within the walking trail to convert it to a native Piedmont prairie meadow, one of the rarest habitats in North Carolina. Current conditions include aggressive weeds such as vetch, pokeweed and nutsedge, which crowd out native species.
FCNC will develop interpretive and wayfinding signage for phased installation around the trail and alongside the sensory stations, which may include nature-play elements, a bird blind, plant-scent waypoints and wind art. The sensory stations, combined with the walking trail through the Piedmont prairie and orchard, will create an inclusive, interactive space that promotes creativity, mental health and well-being and environmental education.
