The summer of 2017 I was lucky enough to work for the Blue Hill Heritage Trust as a summer trail steward. My daily routine consisted mostly of mowing and weed whacking trails owned by the trust. Although it was hard work, it was extremely rewarding. Being able to go spend my day outside and hike trails throughout the peninsula made the job well worth the effort. Working for the trust definitely gave me a new appreciation for the beauty of our area. I quickly realized how important conserving that beauty is.
Working for the trust also gave me a greater sense of awareness in our community. I learned about places and organizations only ten or fifteen minutes away that I had never heard of before. I also quickly realized how important land conservation was to the people in my community. People were always coming into the office just to say hello or renew their memberships.
What really made my experience at BHHT memorable was the people. From the first day I felt welcomed by the whole staff. Everyone was fun to work with and passionate about what they were doing. It was a really fun and relaxed atmosphere to be around. Even after I left to go to college at Maine Maritime, I felt like I was still a part of the organization. George came to see my ship jump (a rite of privilege at the academy for regimental students) and later sent me a care package.
I am extremely thankful for the opportunity given to me by BHHT as well as the work I was able to be a part of. Not only did I have a great time working with them over the summer, I felt like I was making a difference as well as some lasting friendships.
Tyler Brenton was the BHHT Trail Steward Intern for 2017. He also completed his Independent Study Internship project with BHHT in the Spring of 2017, while still a student at George Stevens Academy. Tyler grew up in Penobscot and is currently a student at Maine Maritime Academy.