We have an exciting new addition to the Dingley Dell trail system.

Recently, Eagle Scout Wyatt Flannery installed a beautiful memorial bench at Dingley Dell, the Clayton and Margaret Preserve in Brimfield. The bench was placed in honor of Sturbridge local Bruce Curboy.

Donna Curboy reached out to Opacum Land Trust in February 2025, hoping to place a memorial bench in honor of her late husband, Bruce. She partnered with Wyatt Flannery of Troop 7, who created the bench as his Eagle Scout project.

Wyatt worked closely with Opacum Land Trust and Donna to bring this project to life. Placing permanent structures on conservation land isn’t always simple; it takes careful planning and approvals. Over the past several months, Wyatt took on the challenge of designing the bench and securing the appropriate permits to make it happen.

The bench itself is unique and fitting for the property, with two tree stumps as legs and a beautiful oak slab as the seat, giving it a rugged, natural look.

Installing the bench was no small task. Wyatt and a team of volunteers carried materials nearly a half-mile down the trail, navigating rocks, stumps, and steep hills along the way.

Placed along the Foskett Mill Stream, the bench now offers visitors a peaceful spot to rest while taking in the sights and sounds of the nearby waterfall which, thanks to recent rain, is flowing beautifully right now.

This project is a thoughtful tribute to Bruce’s memory and a wonderful addition to our trail system for the community to enjoy.

Our thanks go out to Donna for choosing Dingley Dell for this meaningful memorial, and to Wyatt for all his hard work in making it happen.

Want to visit? From the parking lot, follow the yellow trail to reach the waterfall and bench, a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the peaceful preserve.