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ABOUT

BAKER WOODS PRESERVE

 

Doris N. (née Blum) and Norman H. Baker cared for the property that is now the Baker Woods Preserve for forty years. This pristine tract of wilderness – and the 1890s farmhouse it  originally accompanied – served as the Baker's home away home and retreat from their more cosmopolitan lives in Manhattan.


Doris and Norman were longtime stewards of the land, friends of the community, and well-loved neighbors. In 2015, Doris decided to donate this pristine land to the Indian River Lakes Conservancy (IRLC) to be preserved forever and responsibly shared by all.

The Baker Woods comprise 354 acres spanning the upper reaches of the Indian River. The land is home to abundant wildlife, including black bear, trout, blue heron, and the occasional passing moose, and it includes extensive river and wetland habitats, a red pine plantation in transition, and native coniferous and hardwood forests.


Over 3 miles of trails extend throughout the Preserve, including access to an Indian River landing and non-motorized boat launch. Visitors are encouraged to make the most of the land all year from dawn to dusk.

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