Towards the end of December, Sam Weissmann, his brother, and representatives of Bethel Land Trust (BLT) did their final inspection of the newly constructed observation platform created by Sam for his Eagle Scouts project. This new addition to the Wolfpit Preserve lets visitors appreciate birds and other wildlife in the nearby marsh in a way that was previously not possible. With its final inspection, the platform is ready for people to use and enjoy. Through Sam's continued efforts in planning, developing, and construction, this project is available for all in the Bethel community and beyond to enjoy...

Candlewood Valley Regional Land Trust (CVRLT) recently shared that they enhanced access to one of their preserves. With project coordination from CVRLT Board member Shane Cosentino, donation of time from Timberwolf TreeWork, and services provided by Excel Property Maintenance INC, they were able to expand their parking area by six new additions by the Sweetcake Mountain Preserve's entrance, and two across the street. With the use of on-site materials, they were able to make the parking areas safer and more accessible for everyone....

First-day hikes are an annual tradition for many land trusts, including the Granby Land Trust (GLT). GLT Property Steward Fran Armentano led the hiking group through the Mary Edwards Mountain Property - guiding the group on a 2.5-mile-long trail along the snowy terrain. They encountered some steep sections as they went, but the group kept on. This New Year's hike marks the 15th trip Fran Armentano has guided for GLT...

The Norfolk Land Trust also hosted a first-day hike to welcome the new year. With land trust and community members, they hit the trails at Ells Crane. As they hiked they found all sorts of interesting fungi growing on the sides of trees and took a rest on a fallen tree to enjoy the sights of the environment around them. They passed by a large border covered in vibrant green moss. The cold weather doesn't stop nature from prospering or from people going out...

Happy New Year to everyone, everywhere! I hope you've all had a wonderful holiday season with your loved ones and enjoyed the time together. This month's collection of stories brings to mind new opportunities to get out in nature and look forward to the rest of the year.

With acquisition and stewardship projects wrapping up and others just underway, land trusts across Connecticut are teeming with ideas to improve their properties for the benefit of their respective communities.

With new and exciting land trust events to look forward to all across the state, it's a whole new year to #LoveYourCTLandTrust!

Observation platform and Sam Weissmann and his brother courtesy of Bethel Land Trust

Mary Edwards Mountain Property courtesy of Peter Dinella

New Year's Day hike at Ells Crane Trail courtesy of Kelly Kandra Hughes