During the 2022-23 winter, the East Haddam Land Trust stewardship team removed decaying and dead spruce trees at their Ayers Preserve. The spruce was planted decades ago when the previous property owner wanted to start a Christmas tree farm. With consultation from CTDEEP on woodland restoration, volunteer efforts, and funding from the Lower Connecticut River Land Trust, slash walls were erected from the downed logs, invasive species were cleared out, and young oak trees were planted and protected by tree fences...

Wilton Land Trust closed off June with the last installment of their Books and a Blanket Series. In collaboration with Wilton Go Green and Wilton Library, the program aimed to get families with young children out in nature and learn about their environment through fun, interactive activities. The program encompassed the land trust’s commitment to nurturing bonds between the community and nature to create a positive and welcoming space for all to enjoy and learn from one another...

Avalonia Land Conservancy closed on 26.99 acres of land from the City of Norwich. The parcel will be managed for wildlife, wetlands, and natural habitat preservation. The preserve will allow the Norwich community to connect with nature through passive recreation like hiking, birdwatching, and photography. On August 20, volunteers gathered at the new preserve for an introduction to stewardship and started initial efforts to clear invasive species. This property is the fourth of several closings on conservation tracts the Conservancy has planned in the New London County area...

Gwen and Ruth Marrion spoke to Wayne Norman Interviews about the recently completed Bolton Breeding Bird Survey on Bolton Land Trust preserves. The survey aims to identify the types of bird species on the properties and determine if the area was their breeding grounds for the summer. The two shared how they conducted the survey and dived deep into the topic. They emphasized the importance of observing bird breeding patterns due to their decline in population across the United States, disturbances in migration behaviors, habitat fragmentation, and other serious issues...

It has been an amazing year getting to know Connecticut's land trusts and conservation community. Sharing land trusts' stories through this monthly eNews was a highlight of my work here at CLCC. I learned so much from everyone and participated in many unique events throughout the year. As I move on to my next adventure, I will keep what I've learned close to mind in the things I hope to achieve.

This month's stories show the work land trusts do to preserve and protect land for enjoyment and conservation. Their efforts can be felt by their communities and those who explore CT's vast natural environment.

As summer comes to a close and the air outside cools, let's reflect on the work done thus far and remember to #LoveYourCTLandTrust.