On Saturday, June 6, the Mississippi Madawaska Land Trust (MMLT) hosted the official public opening of Chatson Woods at Rose Hill Nature Reserve, located near Denbigh in the Addington Highlands.
As MMLT describes, the new reserve “features a range of habitats, including mixed hardwood forests on rolling hills, grasslands, ponds, a marsh, and the serene Copeland Creek.” This 282-acre addition to the Rose Hill reserve brings 640 acres under protection between the two adjacent properties, connected by Denbigh’s historic Pumpkin Trail.
Laura Rose and I first visited Chatson Woods in October 2024 after getting permission to scout the property prior to its acquisition. Thanks to Antonia Chatson for allowing early access! We conducted an informal nature survey to support MMLT’s conservation efforts, noting evidence of wildlife both large and small. You can see the results on iNaturalist.
In spring 2025, I visited again with MMLT volunteer Dale Dilamarter, who along with Bethany Armstrong has been instrumental in protecting Rose Hill and Chatson Woods. We hiked the property to plan the route for an upcoming donors’ visit, which along with an active fundraising campaign led to the property’s purchase.
I attended the opening ceremony on June 6 along with MMLT staff and members, volunteers, donors and local politicians. After words from the dignitaries, Dale led the group on a tour of the property. Our mood was celebratory as we hiked the newly opened trails, bugs notwithstanding. Congratulations to everyone who put in the hard work to make Chatson Woods a reality.
For more information on Chatson Woods at Rose Hill Nature Reserve, please see the MMLT website.
Jeff Priest
Owner and Guide,
Upland Nature Guides
