Background
In 1994 the City of Rockland hosted the Countryside Stewardship Exchange, a group of international professionals interested in identifying ways to protect community, cultural, and natural heritage. Their visit and a walking tour with over 100 people in attendance, led to the creation of the Ad Hoc Harbor Trail Committee and the beginning of the harbor trail that ensures access to our magnificent harbor and coastal area – an incredible asset of this community.
Vision/Mission
A pedestrian trail along Rockland’s scenic, working, and historic waterfront from the south end of town to the breakwater with eventual connections to the Rockland Bog and communities up and down the coast.
Harbor Trail Committee and What We Do
We primarily are about building the Trail from one end of town to the other, foot by foot. We are a working city committee (no longer Ad Hoc) dedicated to collaborating with those interested in the health of ourcommunity and we work alongside the city Public Services Department. We collaborate with the Rockland Historical Society, local businesses, and nonprofits. Grant writing, preparing easement and permissions documentation and are some of the skills we access.
Foot by Foot
That is our strategy for developing the trail. Securing access to property along the waterfront takes time in establishing relationships with landowners whether private, business, or city. This means completed sections are celebrated as we complete them, even as they may not be contiguous. So we continue to add sections foot by foot, as our goal is to have a continuous walking trail for residents and visitors alike from one end of the city to the other.
Trail Accents and Promotions
Benches placed to highlight views and create places for rest and contemplation
Information panels showcasing our waterfront history
Planted areas providing native habitat for our pollinators and birds
Collaborating with other organizations on the harbor cleanup to coincide with Earth Day
Name Tag Day – our annual community event to promote and enjoy the trail and each other.
Participation in local festivals in celebrating this community.
Get Involved
Check out our Facebook Page, or on the City website. Our email address is: rocklandharbortrail@gmail.com