About Bridgham Farm Conservation Area

What it is

We are part of the Bridgham Farm Land Trust (BFLT), a private non-profit 501(c)3 organization formed to promote preservation of natural resources in the City of East Providence and to encourage sound land use practices for the benefit of the community.

Formerly named the East Providence Land Conservation Trust, our new name reflects the sole focus of our organization: the preserving of and protecting access to Bridgham Farm Conservation Area.

Where it is

Bridgham Farm is bordered by Pleasant Street and Miller Avenue, and is adjacent to Turner Reservoir in Rumford, Rhode Island. There are entrances on all sides, with a small parking area at the main entrance on Pleasant Street.

How it came to be

The original 30–acre farm was sold to a developer with plans to build up to 100 condominiums. Financial difficulties forced the developer to declare bankruptcy.

With help from private donations, the Nature Conservancy and the R.I. Department of Environmental Management, the BFLT was able to acquire more than half of the farm consisting of 18.8 acres. The City Council changed the parcel to open space, while the remaining acreage was developed into house lots. The farm area is still enjoyed by all today as open field and meadow, with several walking trails.

Permitted Uses

• Bird watching
• Cross-country skiing
• Ecology programs
• Nature Walks
• Scientific studies
• Snow shoeing

Non-Permitted Uses

• Bicycles
• Camping
• Excavating
• Littering
• Sound broadcasting
• Vehicles