There is so much to look forward to in the coming months. Many are seeing their lives resume some kind of normalcy. One thing we hope will not change, the enjoyment many of you found on GCT properties. Indeed, there are many reasons to continue exploring, hiking and supporting the open spaces in Groton. We have several opportunities noted here in the next few weeks.

An update on the Shepley Village development: thank you to everyone who expressed your support for our request to the DEP to review the project and issue a Superseding Order of Conditions. When the Secretary of Energy & Environmental Affairs publishes a notice in the Environmental Monitor, the agency will receive public comments on the project for 20 days, and will then decide, within ten days, if an environmental Impact Report is needed.

The 2021 Groton Conservation Forum will be taking place virtually this year on the evening of Wednesday, April 14th at 7pm. The Groton Conservation Trust is hosting this year, and we are pleased to announce that we have invited a special guest speaker, Sophie Ehrhardt, who coordinates the Wildlands Partnership at Northeast Wilderness Trust. Sophie will present her talk Why Wilderness, followed by a Q&A moderated by Groton Conservation Trust Vice President Mark Gerath.

The annual Groton Conservation Forum is a meeting of all conservation-related organizations in Groton to discuss topics of mutual interest, and to explore cross-group cooperation. The forum is organized alternately by the Groton Conservation Trust, the Conservation Commission, and the Trails Committee. Last year's forum at the Groton Senior Center was organized by the Trails Committee. Please contact Katy to get Zoom link.

On Saturday April 10th at 10 AM the GCT is thrilled to partner with naturalists from Mass Audubon to present an exciting family-focused science webinar. Join Cindy Dunn and Kristin Steinmetz for a cool, hands-on opportunity to learn about amphibians and their habitats.

We’ll learn what makes an amphibian an amphibian, get acquainted with some local amphibians you may see or hear at this time of year, discover amazing adaptations that help amphibians survive, and even laugh at some amphibian jokes (yes, they do exist!). We’ll also find answers to some fascinating questions such as: Can frogs freeze solid? Why are efts red? Do amphibian eggs always come with a side of jelly? What can you do to help amphibians now? There will also be hands-on activities using simple items from around your house (we’ll share a list).

Contact Katy to check the status of your GCT membership to attend for free, or register directly at the Prescott School Community Center.

As always, we appreciate your contributions to the vital work we all do to protect our open spaces.

Our website

has a wealth of information about properties to explore and information to share.

Thanks!

Trustees Holly Estes and Susan Hughes have some sites they want want you to see! This diverse tromp wanders through glacier boulders, a hardwood forest, brooks and eskers, ending at a magical point at Whitney Pond.

Join us Saturday, March 27, 3-5 PM. We will hike 4 miles, with hills. Please be mindful of ticks and dress (and spray!) accordingly. Bring a snack and a beverage to enjoy at the point. We are still limiting the number to the first 8 to reply. Contact Katy to reserve your spot and get the meeting location.