Earthplace

Earthplace Nature Center is a 62-acre wildlife sanctuary, natural history and environment education center located in Fairfield County.

Dirtworks, PC developed a Master Plan incorporating site-wide sustainable landscape enhancements and a trail system based upon the principles of Universal Design. Balancing the Center’s environmental and cultural education programs, desire for access to nature, community participation and environmental protection, Dirtworks created a trail system that offers distinct experiences depending upon individual ability, experience and interest.

As Westport’s second largest open space parcel (following Sherwood Island State Park), Earthplace provides free public access to several miles of trail routes. The network of trails is wheelchair-accessible, with comfortable access for individual and group activities. The design highlights a series of guides for the visually impaired, including special edging and surfacing and custom handrails incorporating Braille insets that provide a changing educational narrative. An interpretive signage system has easily identifiable symbols representing native plants along the trails.

Location
Westport, CT

Completion
2007

Size
62 acres

Recognition
2015 Ruegg Grant, Westport Woman’s Club