Sudbury Valley TrusteesConservation, Collaboration, and Community since 1953

River Road Farm, a scenic 42-acre property owned by the Elliott family, is the subject of a special permit from the Carlisle Planning Board for subdivision into six estate lots. SVT and CCF have secured the opportunity to purchase nine of the most critical acres on the property, which would protect nearly 1,000 feet of riverfront on the Concord River as well as priority habitat for a state-listed species of wildlife. Adjacent to the Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, the property’s unique location means development of the riverfront portion would have significant impact on what is now a lengthy stretch of unbroken land along the river. 

The Elliott family is enabling this conservation effort as a tribute to the late Pagey and Mark Elliott, who were well-loved in Carlisle and beyond.  SVT and CCF will continue to work with the family to explore any opportunities that might arise to protect additional acreage on the farm.

Will You Help Create this Preserve?

The overall fundraising goal for the project is $728,000.  SVT and CCF estimate that we need to raise approximately $200,000 in private contributions to accomplish the establishment of the Mark and Rachel Page Elliott River Preserve.

Cash or other donations will do their most good if received in advance of spring 2012 Town Meeting because it will establish the community’s deep support for the project.

Funds donated will supplement municipal and state monies that will be sought for the acquisition of the land, will endow the long-term care and oversight of the protection, and will underwrite the efforts of Sudbury Valley Trustees and CCF to conserve the Farm.

Gifts of cash, appreciated stocks, or other similar cash-equivalents may be made to Carlisle Conservation Foundation or Sudbury Valley Trustees.  Contributions will be held specifically to support the protection of the Elliott Farm or until December, 2012. In the event that conservation of the property cannot be achieved, funds will be returned to donors at their request.