Thompson’s Field Conservation Area

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Conservation History and Importance:

In 1984, the Town purchased 57 acres now known as the Thompson’s Field Conservation Area. The mosaic of woods and fields were preserved primarily to protect groundwater flowing toward the adjacent public wellfield.

Historically, like most of Cape Cod, Thompson’s Field had been cleared for grazing or subsistence agriculture. Currently, some of the land south of the Cape Cod Rail Trail, which roughly bisects the property, has remained open field habitat, but is gradually being succeeded by pitch pine, eastern red cedar and non-native invasive plants. Every April, AmeriCorps, the Town, and HCT partner with volunteers to maintain the open fields and enhance wildlife habitat. Pitch pine dominates the land north of the bike path. This site is also popular with dog-walkers.

South Trailhead Parking:
From Rt. 39, take Chatham Road southeast 0.75 mile to a parking area on the left.

North Trailhead Parking:
From the intersection of Rt. 124 and 39, drive 0.9 mile east to a parking area on the south or right side of Rt. 39.

NOTE:
It is especially important to remove dog waste owing to the nearby sensitive town drinking water supply.