American Chestnut Land Trust - ACLT

06/04/2026

Thank you, Marty Madden for the article about tomorrow's event!

To mark this Saturday’s American Hiking Society’s National Trails Day, Calvert’s 40-year-old land preservation nonprofit is hosting an event that should be well worth the walk.

06/03/2026

It looks like summer heat is upon us for the next several days. Extreme heat can lead to serious health issues. While anyone can be a victim of heat-related illness, highest risk groups include people under age 5 or over age 65, people with chronic illnesses, people taking certain medications, and those who are exercising or working outdoors. The Maryland Dept. of Health has some very good advice:https://www.acltweb.org/_files/ugd/5ef86e_b90a3c78c0604300a9aa9fe363460bf8.pdf

06/03/2026

Learn more! Attend the Launch of the Parkers Creek Heritage Trail on National Trails Day at ACLT this Saturday from 10am-3pm.

06/02/2026

🎥Critter Cam Spotlight: Pileated Woodpecker!🎥

This month’s Critter Cam captured one of the most recognizable birds on ACLT’s trails: the Pileated Woodpecker! With its bold red crest, striking black-and-white markings, and powerful bill, this forest favorite is hard to miss.

Pileated Woodpeckers have an incredible adaptation hiding in plain sight: their tongue is so long that it wraps around the back of the skull and anchors near the nostril! This special structure, called the hyoid apparatus, works like a built-in biological seatbelt, helping cushion the brain from the intense force of all that drumming and pecking.

Next time you hear that loud tap-tap-tap echoing through the woods at ACLT, keep an eye out for a flash of red...there may be a Pileated Woodpecker nearby! 🌳

06/01/2026

🐍👀 Can You Spot the Snake? 👀🐍

This camouflaged water snake was recently spotted along one of ACLT’s streams, blending almost perfectly into the muddy water, leaves, and reflections. If you didn’t notice it right away, you’re not alone!

Water snakes are an important part of our local ecosystems, helping to keep populations of fish, amphibians, and other small aquatic creatures in balance. Despite their often-misunderstood reputation, they are nonvenomous and generally prefer to avoid people.

Moments like this are a great reminder to slow down and look closely when exploring ACLT’s trails…you never know what wildlife may be hiding in plain sight!

📸 Have you ever spotted a well-camouflaged critter at ACLT? Share your photos in the comments!

(Photo Credit: Clara Brill-Carlat, Land Manager)