Wayland began as a farming community and even now people move to Wayland for the “semi-rural” nature of the town.  But farm land is fast disappearing.  Lee’s Farmstand on Boston Post Road is but the latest of a long run of developed open space: West-Way Orchards, the Anzivino family farm, Pinky’s cornfields,  farmland on Plain Road (now “Plain Estates”), and the Watertown Dairy farm on Moore Road .   In 1985 there were about 800 acres of farmland, in 2005, just 450 acres.  The Town does not have data on farm land loss since 2005 but the pace of development would appear to have eaten away more open land.

Historically, much of the Town’s farmland was located in the lowlands adjacent to the Sudbury River floodplain.  On Sunday, September 21, preservationist Gretchen Schuler will take us on a walk around the Heard Farm on Pelham Island Road to appreciate its rich history that dates back to the Indians.  Situated along the Sudbury River and near Heard Pond, the “Fields” are now owned by the Town and managed by the Town Conservation Committee.  Parking is extremely limited so park at the rear of the Town Building to carpool to the small lot at the end of Heard Road.  Alternatively, one could bike or walk.  In case of uncertain weather, please call 358-2980 to confirm the walk will go forward.  Refreshments follow at the home of Ira and Karen Montague at 9 Erwin Road.