Although best known for his delightful and historic paintings of Rhode Island, noted artist Maxwell Mays was also a dedicated conservationist and philanthropist. He donated his 295-acre tract of land in Coventry to Audubon in 2000 as part of a life estate. Mr. Mays was determined to preserve as open space the land he lovingly referred to as Woodlot Farm.
Upon his death in 2009, Audubon began preparing the property to open to the public.
On October 1, 2011, the Mawell Mays Wildlife Refuge became the Audubon Society of Rhode Island's sixteenth public wildlife refuge.
The Mays Refuge contains diverse and high quality wildlife habitat consisting of upland forests, wetlands, streams, ponds and open meadow. The 11-acre Carr's Pond, situated entirely within the bounds of the property, is the centerpiece of the preserve. It is home to river otters as well as many types of freshwater fish and aquatic invertebrates.
The habitat value of the preserve lies not only in its size, but also in its content. The land is comprised of a relatively mature and undisturbed closed-canopy forest and forested wetlands as well as developed understory - creating ideal conditions for migratory and forest interior birds. A 10-acre field near the head of the trail also provides excellent meadow wildlife habitat.
The opening of the refuge was made possible by contributions from The Champlin Foundation, The Howard Bayne Fund, The Rhode Island Foundation and private donors. Fundraising efforts continue. If you'd like to help, please contactJeffrey Hall, Senior Director of Development.
CLICK HERE for directions to the Maxwell Mays Wildlife Refuge. CLICK HERE for a map of the refuge.
