Thanks to a generous donation from Susan Heller, Mianus River Gorge (the Preserve) has added nearly 13 acres of woodlands along Mianus River Road. The site of an orchard in the late 1800s, the land is now a mature sugar maple grove laced with ancient stone walls and other remnants of its past use. Heller’s family once owned much of the land along this part of Mianus River Road, and her parents donated vital pieces of land to the preserve in the past.

Mianus River Gorge, located in Bedford, works to protect and promote appreciation of the natural heritage of the Mianus River watershed through land acquisition, conservation science, research and education throughout the region. Rod Christie, executive director, says the maturing forest donated by Heller provides an important buffer for older forestlands within the interior of the preserve.

“It is extremely rare to receive such a gift in this day and age, when land is worth so much,” he says. “We are extremely grateful to Susie for this gift and promise to take as good care of it as she and her family have for so many years. It is truly a spectacular addition to the preserve. Walkers and other people enjoying Mianus River Road are very familiar with this land and can now take comfort in knowing that its beautiful vistas can be enjoyed by all for years to come.”

For more information about Mianus River Gorge, visit Mianus.org.