GLLT will convert Storybook Trail at the Kezar River Reserve into a level and gravel-surfaced path.

LOVELL — To help ensure that one of the most beautiful areas in Maine’s spectacular landscape is preserved and available to all, Norway Savings Bank has contributed $1,000 to the Greater Lovell Land Trust (GLLT).

Established in 1985, GLLT is a non-profit land conservation organization that aims to protect the ecosystems of the Kezar Lake, Kezar River, Cold River, and Sweden watersheds for the benefit of natural and human communities today and in the future.

GLLT conserves just over 7,500 acres of land through fee ownership and easements and offers a full schedule of diverse programs and outdoor learning for residents, students, and visitors year-round and at no charge.

“We’re now engaging in projects designed to tackle common challenges with solutions that expand access to anyone interested in experiencing GLLT,” said Rhyan Paquereau, Stewardship Director of GLLT. “There was a lot of interest in building more accessible or all-access trails. We’re trying to do our part in making the outdoors and natural science available to people of all ages and abilities.”

In that spirit, the GLLT plans to convert its quarter-mile Storybook Trail at the Kezar River Reserve into a six-foot wide, level, and gravel-surfaced path.

“The path will be safe and easy for everyone to use,” said Paquereau. “The Storybook Trail was chosen because it’s short and offers a scenic walk along the Kezar River and overlooks a mill pond.”

The trail also features storyboards displaying scenes and characters from children’s books that are changed seasonally and highlight different aspects of the natural world. The storyboards are selected in partnership with the Charlotte Hobbs Memorial Library.

“We already host numerous science and nature education programs throughout the year for schools and summer recreation programs,” said Paquereau. “It’s perfect. People of all ages enjoy it.”

Enthusiastically providing enjoyable and educational experiences in the beauty of Maine nature is what has made the GLLT so successful and appreciated.

“The Greater Lovell Land Trust has already accomplished so much for our local communities and the betterment of our surroundings in its short history. We are proud to help them as they promote and create opportunities for all people to explore and enjoy the outdoors and learn more about the environment in the process,” said Dan Walsh, President and CEO of Norway Savings Bank.

To learn more about GLLT, including ways to help their mission, visit www.gllt.org/donate.