Features

Look out over fields and salt marshes, the dunes of Barney’s Joy, Buzzards Bay, and the Elizabeth Islands from the wildlife observation platform at Ocean View Farm Reserve.

Stretching out like a banquet table to the waters of Allens Pond and Buzzards Bay, the aptly named Ocean View Farm Reserve offers one of Southeastern Massachusetts’ most spectacular coastal views. From the wildlife observation platform at the end of the reserve’s trail, you can look out over acres of protected fields, wetlands, and dunes. On a fair day, you’ll be able to see across the Bay to Cuttyhunk Island, where the Gosnold Monument stands in clear view.

Ocean View Farm was farmed by the Motha family for nearly 130 years, starting in 1889 when the family came to the U.S. from the Azores. In 2017, the Coalition worked in close partnership with DNRT and neighboring Round the Bend Farm to permanently conserve Ocean View Farm, which was the last undeveloped and unprotected area of coastal farmland on Allens Pond.

Trails

Ocean View Farm Reserve’s flat, grassy trail stretches for three-quarters of a mile through fields and meadows to a wildlife observation platform at the edge of a salt marsh that borders Allens Pond. To protect ground nesting birds and other wildlife, dogs are not allowed. (Download trail map)

Starting from the parking area, head south down the long, straight path past the grounds of Round the Bend Farm. Along the way, stop at the Joseph B. Motha Overlook – named for the last member of the Motha family who actively farmed this land until 2010. The overlook, a pile of granite blocks that form stone steps, offers your first elevated gaze across the field to Allens Pond beyond.

Keep walking past the overlook and follow the trail around Malcolm’s Field, a haven for grassland birds. At the end of the trail, you’ll find the wildlife observation platform, which provides an outstanding view of Buzzards Bay and Cuttyhunk directly across the water.

Habitats & Wildlife

Scenic farms, abundant wildlife, and clean water – these are the treasures of the Allens Pond landscape. This vibrant coastal salt pond is recognized by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service as one of the most significant coastal habitats in southern New England.

Along with neighboring Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary, Ocean View Farm Reserve provides a refuge for a wide variety of birds and wildlife. DNRT maintains Malcolm’s Field for bobolinks and other grassland birds, which are in decline throughout Massachusetts due to habitat loss and changes in farming practices. The reserve’s coastal habitat is also an important stopover for migratory songbirds; native shrubs like cedar, sumac, bayberry, and elderberry provide food for these travelers along the Atlantic Flyway.

Property Owned By

Dartmouth Natural Resources Trust

Dartmouth Natural Resources Trust (DNRT) is a nonprofit, accredited land trust. Since 1971, DNRT has helped protect more than 5,000 acres of land and maintain more than 35 miles of hiking trails in Dartmouth.