July 24, 2017
Executive Director's Message 
Finding Clarity

Recently, while driving to a land trust celebration in Goshen, I felt burdened by a vague gloom. The air outside was hot and heavy - befitting the relentlessly grim news from both Hartford, where the state's fiscal year ended without agreement on the next biennial budget, and Washington, where daily tabloid-style revelations overshadow a steady assault by the current administration on environmental regulations.

When I arrived, I was greeted by many land trust friends, and together we hiked up a long hill to join the Goshen community in celebrating the land trust's protection of the Mountain View preserve.

When we reached the clearing at the top of the hill, the view took my breath away.

Goshen Land Trust's preservation of this exquisite mountain-view was no easy task. There were many people and organizations who have earned our thanks and sincere congratulations, including a local couple whose indispensable help made the purchase possible.   

After the ceremony, we hiked back down via a newly blazed trail that meandered through forest and over streams. The air was cool, the scenery was gorgeous, and the mood was jubilant.

On my ride home, I felt incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to work with land trusts like Goshen, and people like you, who are committed to saving places that bring a restored sense of clarity and purpose at a time when we really, really need it.

Although the news these days can be grim and disheartening, I will always remain inspired by your commitment, your sacrifices, your leadership, and your accomplishments. That is how real progress happens!

With warmest regards,

Amy

Amy Blaymore Paterson, Executive Director

CLCC News
State Budget Action Alert!
Budget Negotiations Continue! 
Your advocacy efforts are still needed!

Please continue to  contact your legislators and urge them to support land conservation budget priorities  including:
CLCC Regional Land Trust Summit Series Calendar Now Available
Up next:  Cheshire and Prospect Land Trusts co-host on September 6

We kicked off our regional summit series on July 18 in New Haven with a presentation and discussion on Exploring Opportunities for Collaboration, featuring Margot Burns and Connie Manes, and co-hosted by the South Central Regional Water Authority.  We are convening five more regional summits around the state through the end of the year!   View our 2017 Regional Summit Calendar and be sure to save the date for a meeting near you!  All are welcome!
Connecticut Land Trusts in the News
Prepare to be inspired! 
NCLT Stewards
Photo Credit: New Canaan Land Trust
 
New Canaan Land Trust Summer Stewards Program Update

The New Canaan Land Trust has reached the halfway point of their 2017 Summer Stewards Program! Their crew of six local high school students have been working hard stewarding properties, learning how to identify native and invasive plants, and enjoy the trails and open spaces protected by the land trust. 
Joshua's Trust Featured in Media Stories series

The Eastern CT State University Center for Community Engagement highlighted Joshua's Tract Conservation and Historic Trust as one of seven organizations in their Media Stories series. Joshua's Trust executive director Michael Hveem and volunteer coordinator Andy Woodcock are also featured on Local Access CTV
Avalonia Land Conservancy's acquisition plans featured in The Day

As they approach their 50th anniversary,  Avalonia Land Conservancy President Dennis Main has announced plans to preserve another 2,000 plus acres of land in southeastern CT.  Recently accredited, Avalonia currently plans to add the purchase of a 409-acre parcel that covers land in Preston, Griswold, and North Stonington.

At left, Cerulean Warbler. Photo credit Niall Doherty courtesy of Avalonia Land Conservancy
National News Headlines  
Land Trust Resources & Opportun ities
Photo credit:  CT Forest & Park Association
  • OPM seeking comments on State C&D Plan:  Public hearings and map workshops are being offered and comments accepted through October 16, 2017 on revisions to the State Conservation and Development Policies Plan 2018 - 2023.  
  • Rockfall Foundation Call for Nominations: The Distinguished Service Award and Certificate of Appreciation are presented annually to honor individuals, non-profit organizations, and other groups for contributions to the environment and quality of life in the Lower CT River Valley. Nominations are due September 15, 2017.
  • Apply for 2017 Coverts Project Seminar:  The Coverts Project is a volunteer training program in forest and wildlife management. The seminar will be held on September 14-17 at the Great Mountain Forest in Falls Village.

Funding and Project Assistance Opportunities

Job and Volunteer Opportunities  
Photo credit:  Amy B. Paterson
Great Hollow Nature Preserve
Tip of the Month:  
Share your land conservation stories

Whether we are lobbying in Hartford or in D.C., the message from legislators is the same: There is no better way to advocate for conservation funding and inspire support for your work than by sharing your stories about the land you love!  It only takes a minute to share a description, photo, or even a video about the impact land conservation has had on you, your family and community.  

Do you have a tip to share with your land trust colleagues?  Contact us!

Our 2017-18 Annual Membership Appeal is Underway!
We Count on Your Support!

The Connecticut Land Conservation Council advocates for land conservation, stewardship and funding, and works to ensure the long term strength and viability of the land conservation community.
Connecticut Land Conservation Council | 16 Meriden Road, Rockfall, CT  06481 | 860-614-8537
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