Have you seen DEEP’s latest Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Inventory? The findings show Connecticut’s GHG emissions are increasing, and further reductions are essential to meeting the state’s statutory medium—and long-term goals. However, amidst this sobering news, the report provides room for optimism: For the first time, the inventory acknowledges the carbon sequestration potential of natural and working lands (NWLs) and their value as an essential component of the state’s climate change strategy. (Pages 12-13, 18) The inventory is timely, underscoring the urgent need to pass crucial bi ..read more

At the beginning of April, land trust board representatives from lower Fairfield County gathered at the recently redeveloped New Canaan Library in New Canaan, Connecticut for a CLCC-facilitated workshop. Representatives from the Aspectuck Land Trust, Darien Land Trust, New Canaan Land Trust, and Norwalk Land Trust were in attendance. Land trusts in this region are in an interesting position, being primarily focused on preserving and protecting open space in perpetuity. However, lower Fairfield County is a region that is prone to very high land costs and very high levels of development. So oppo ..read more

On April 21, we held our second joint bird walk with Outdoor Afro-Connecticut at Westmoor Park in West Hartford. It was wonderful to see new faces joining our experienced birders, all eager to explore and learn about the feathered residents of the park. These bird walks are more than just spotting Kingfishers and Kinglets. They are a cornerstone of our community conservation efforts. They provide a chance to connect with the tranquility and awe of nature in unexpected ways. They are also a way to ignite the passion of new environmentalists and conservationists. Bird & Hike fosters a welcom ..read more

Welcome to the April edition of our #LoveYourCTLandTrust eNewsletter! While this month is known for its showers, the efforts of land trusts have been shining persistently over the past few weeks. New programs, video series, and land acquisitions combined with regular volunteer efforts have all strengthened land conservation efforts. Through education, funding, and engagement, we continue to develop our appreciation for nature while improving our capacity to protect it. As we continue through spring, our days will get warmer and longer. Flowers will bloom, insects will buzz, and baby animals wi ..read more

At the Connecticut Land Conservation Council (CLCC), we recognize the power and importance of conservation advocacy at the local, state, and national level. As Connecticut’s only state-wide land trust service organization, we were proud to represent Connecticut’s ~120 land trusts in Washington D.C. at the Land Trust Alliance’s 2024 Advocacy Days. Participation in Advocacy Days underscores CLCC’s commitment to shaping policies that safeguard our natural and working lands, and provide critical funding for land conservation projects. Representing CLCC at this year’s Advocacy Days were Aaron Lefla ..read more

Your Testimony is Needed by Thursday (3/7) at 3pm We urge you to participate in the upcoming Environment Committee public hearing (Friday, March 8 at 11am) on HB 5004, An Act Concerning the Implementation of Certain Climate Change Measures. This omnibus bill proposes a comprehensive approach to addressing climate change, including urgent action on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting renewable energy and energy efficiency, enhancing climate resilience, and integrating nature-based solutions across Connecticut. CLCC is especially supportive of Section 22 of the bill, which req ..read more

Reflecting on our recent Connecticut Land Conservation Conference, I’m struck by the powerful imagery in this photograph captured by a conference attendee. It’s a scene that encapsulates both the challenges we face and the unwavering dedication of our community. The heavy rain is a reminder of the increasingly frequent and severe weather events attributed to the climate crisis. Flash flood warnings echoed throughout the state, underscoring the urgent need for action. Yet, amidst the deluge, I see resilience. Our attendees, over 550 strong, defied the weather conditions to come together for a c ..read more

Greetings and happy February! This month’s #LoveYourCTLandTrust features inspiring stories about land trusts establishing goals for land conservation and engaging future generations of conservationists. The importance of approaching land conservation from a generational perspective is showcased, both through a land donation in honor of parents and through educational and stewardship programs for kids. We also see the way that land trusts set goals of all scales, from local advocacy for open space to taking on national conservation goals. While this is the shortest month of the year, there’s st ..read more

February marked another step forward in our commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment within the Connecticut Land Conservation Council and the land trust community. Beginning with the 2024 Connecticut Land Conservation Conference on March 23, CLCC will implement a new Code of Conduct. This policy is designed to reflect the values and behaviors that we uphold as an organization and that we expect from all participants at CLCC-hosted programs and events, including a commitment to: Promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, and prioritizing the well-being of all part ..read more

Over the past six months, in preparation for the 2024 legislative session, I have engaged in meaningful discussions alongside my colleagues Denise Savageau (CT Association of Conservation Districts), Robert Lafrance (Audubon Connecticut), and Alicea Charamut (Rivers Alliance of CT), focusing on a topic close to all our hearts – Nature. At every opportunity to provide public input, we have delved into the critical role that natural and working lands play in absorbing CO2, protecting wildlife habitat, filtering air pollutants, mitigating flooding, contributing to recreation and mental ..read more