Come take a short walk around the Waban Hill Reservoir site, the City’s newest open space, purchased this past spring using Community Preservation Act funds. Once a backup reservoir to the state’s water supply system, the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) deemed it unnecessary and disconnected it prior to the sale. This 5-acre parcel in Chestnut Hill now falls under the jurisdiction of the Newton Parks and Recreation Department while the Newton Conservators hold its conservation restriction, ensuring it remains a passive park in perpetuity. The reservoir’s dam is steep but its water is entirely fenced for public safety and the pedestrian entry on Manet Road is accessible, leading to a level 1/4 miles walk on grass. Leader is Carol Schein, City of Newton’s Open Space Coordinator (617-796-1507).

Come and hopefully see the beautiful Lady’s Slipper orchids during a 90 minute walk through the Newton Webster Conservation area, including the Vale and Bare Pond. Leader: BU Professor of Plant Ecology and life-long Newton resident Richard Primack (617-332-1684).

This garden remains from the Houghton Estate and is now owned by Newton. The garden, lightly managed now, retains a variety of flowering plans and a surprising diversity of ferns. We will see more than a dozen fern species and one club-moss. Leader: Don Lubin (617-254-8464)