Annual Meeting Highlights

Guest speaker, retired Brown Professor, Rob Emlen and Land Trust President, Tom Webb.

Approximately 75 residents gathered on Wednesday evening, April 29, at the Seekonk Public Library for the Seekonk Land Conservation Trust’s (SLCT) 2026 Annual Meeting. The event featured a presentation by guest speaker Rob Emlen, a retired Brown University professor, who shared insights on the historical significance and enduring craftsmanship of stone walls throughout Seekonk.

Mr. Emlen, who studies the historical landscape of rural New England, delivered a keynote presentation titled “Stone Walls of Seekonk.” His talk explored the many stone walls that wind through wooded areas, line roadways, and mark property boundaries across town. Many of these structures date back as far as 400 years, built by early colonists as they cleared fields for farming and grazing. Constructed as dry walls—without mortar—and typically built to waist height due to the limitations of early tools and labor, these walls have proven remarkably durable. Today, they remain a defining feature of Seekonk’s scenic and rural landscape, even as other structures have disappeared over time. The presentation sparked strong audience interest and concluded with a lively discussion.

SLCT President Tom Webb moderated the meeting and provided an overview of the organization’s accomplishments. Since its founding in 1967, SLCT has helped preserve 892 acres of land—approximately 8% of Seekonk’s total land area. These holdings include town-owned properties, land trust gifts and acquisitions, and parcels protected through conservation restrictions. In addition, nearly 200 acres are preserved locally through the Audubon Society’s Caratunk Wildlife Refuge and Osamequin Farm.

During the meeting, Mr. Webb presented the Mary Wilson Conservation Award to the Seekonk Scouts, Troops 1 and 9, in recognition of their contributions to local conservation efforts. He also highlighted the work of Jessie Blackledge, SLCT’s stewardship coordinator, who leads volunteer recruitment and engagement, and encouraged residents to get involved in ongoing stewardship initiatives.

Community members interested in supporting SLCT’s mission—including opportunities to serve on the Board of Trustees—are encouraged to learn more by volunteering.