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