READFIELD – A full-color map showing all outdoor recreation and conservation lands that are open to the public in Readfield is available.

On the back on the map are descriptions and directions for each property. Readfield residents can pick up a free copy of the map at the town office.

Jym St. Pierre, a member of the Readfield Conservation Commission, researched each of the more than three dozen areas depicted. Nearly 20 organizations, agencies and boards contributed information to make it the most accurate map and guide produced for Readfield.

St. Pierre said, “We published the first edition of this map two years ago. Since then, a number of new properties have been added, thanks to the great work of the Kennebec Land Trust and other conservation interests.”

The town prepared an open space plan for the community in 2006 and is in the process of finalizing the updated comprehensive plan. The new map of recreation and conservation lands is being incorporated into both plans.

“Readfield is blessed with many wonderful areas to take a walk, do nature photography or go cross country skiing or snowmobiling. We want to encourage people to visit the Torsey Pond Nature Preserve, Tyler Conservation Area, Readfield Fairgrounds, Town Forest and the other properties that have trails. Even those open space lands that are not available for active public use have great value by protecting water quality and wildlife habitat,” said St. Pierre.

Creation of the map of “Outdoor Recreation and Conservation Areas in Readfield” has been a public-private partnership. Funding for production was provided by residents through the Readfield Conservation Commission.

The Kennebec Soil and Water Conservation District provided the computer cartography. The Readfield Recreation Association, Kennebec Land Trust and Maine Forest Service helped with grants for the first edition.