Along the Old Laneways: An Autumn Woodland Walk

Solidago sempervirens (seaside goldenrod), GGardner

On October 1, 2026 from 10 am – 12 pm join Roger Greene at Simmons Mill Pond in Little Compton. We’ll take a walk along the historic laneways through this globally rare Oak/Holly woodland. In early October, we will see goldenrods and asters going to seed, several species of ferns transitioning to fall, and eleven species of trees.

Along the way we will find the Simmons Mill raceway, the old mill dam, an icehouse foundation, and the successful phragmites control project on Smith Pond. Control was achieved without the use of chemicals. Now seven years later, the area that had been nearly solid with phragmites is a valuable wetland habitat with a large diversity of native plants.

The loop includes some moderate up and down hill terrain.

Walk Leader Roger Greene worked for the RI Department of Environmental Management for about 30 years as a Principal Environmental Scientist. Since Roger retired from DEM, he and his wife Gail have been stewards of DEM’s Simmons Mill Pond Management Area, where they devote approximately 1,000 hours a year to managing a variety of habitats.

Free and open to the public.

Donations to help support our walks are appreciated.  DONATE NOW

General walk guidelines

Wear clothing and sturdy footwear appropriate for the weather conditions and for protection against sun exposure, ticks and other insects, briars, tree roots, rocks, mud, poison ivy, and other natural hazards etc. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and any personal items you may need during the walk.

Dogs are not permitted.

Cancellations

Should you need to cancel, contact communications@riwps.org 

We walk in light rain or shine. If severe weather requires cancellation, we’ll email you—typically deciding the day before.

Registration is required

Space is limited to ensure everyone can observe plants and join the discussion.

Note: Submit a separate registration for each person