May Newsletter

Dear Friend,

Jack in the pulpit flower

Across Northwest Connecticut, more people are stepping forward to protect the lands and waters that sustain this region, and that growing commitment is accelerating the pace of conservation and strengthening land stewardship in meaningful ways.


Last month, NCLC’s Give Local campaign raised more than $54,000, including a generous $25,000 matching gift, to support our growing Public Lands Program. These funds will help improve trails and access, enhance visitor infrastructure, and support the future opening of four new public preserves in Litchfield, Sharon, Sherman, Torrington, and North Canaan. This campaign was made possible by a community of people who care deeply about the future of Northwest Connecticut, and we are profoundly grateful for everyone's support.


This season, we are also advancing significant land protection projects, strengthening stewardship and biodiversity initiatives, and expanding opportunities for people to connect with the outdoors in their own communities.


As our work continues to grow, so does the need for volunteers and supporters who value the lands and waters that we depend on. Whether you lend a hand on the trails, attend a community event, or join us at the 20th Annual Midsummer Party for Conservation, your support helps safeguard the connected natural places that sustain wildlife, communities, and public access across our region.


I hope you enjoy the stories and updates in this month's newsletter and find time to get outside and experience the lands you help protect.


Thank you for your continued support and commitment to conservation.


With gratitude,

Catherine M. Rawson

Executive Director

Catherine Rawson

CONSERVATION NEWS

Surdan Mountain vista at sunset

Another Step Closer to Securing a New Public Preserve

NCLC is pleased to announce it has been awarded a $100,000 grant from The Nature Conservancy’s Resilient and Connected Appalachians Grant Program to support the acquisition of the future 108-acre Surdan Mountain Preserve in Sharon. Located within the Appalachian Trail corridor, the preserve will protect critical habitat and expand public recreation opportunities when it opens in 2027.

Indian paintbrush in bloom.

The Path to Protecting Biodiversity and Rare Species

A single flowering stem spotted this spring is offering new hope for the state-endangered Indian paintbrush. Discover how stewardship, restoration science, and habitat management protect biodiversity and help rare species survive and recover in resilient ecosystems in Northwest Connecticut. Read more.

Kalenauskas Farm Market in Watertown, Connecticut

Farm Partner Spotlight: Kalenauskas Farm

What does climate resilience look like on a working farm? At Kalenauskas Farm, it means investing in healthier soils, smarter equipment, and the future of a family farming legacy more than 100 years in the making. With support from NCLC’s Building Resiliency grant program, discover how innovation and tradition are working hand in hand at this family farm.

Volunteers Needed—Lend a Hand for Conservation

Do you love nature and making a difference? NCLC is looking for volunteers in Danbury, New Fairfield, and throughout our service area. From trail maintenance and stewardship to office assistance and community event support, there are many ways to get involved and make a positive impact across Litchfield and northern Fairfield Counties. Learn more.

Join us for conservation's biggest night of the year

2026 Midsummer Party for Conservation Invite

Together, we are accelerating the pace of conservation across Northwest Connecticut and are on the path to opening four new public nature preserves, totaling more than 1,100 acres. Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating your support of the places that make this region extraordinary.


All supporters who purchase their tickets or make a Patron level contribution by May 30 will be listed in the printed invitation.

Hosted by Leni and Peter May


20th Annual Midsummer Party for Conservation

Saturday, July 25

6 p.m.


Cocktails and Dinner

Catered by Marcia Selden Catering & Events


MAYWOOD

52 Cooper Road, Bridgewater, Connecticut


TO SUPPORT

Bold conservation with Northwest Connecticut Land Conservancy

MORE UPCOMING EVENTS

Connect and grow with your community. NCLC events are free and open to the public, thanks to the generous support of our members—thank you for helping us keep nature accessible to all!

Housatonic River Brewing pint

Meet Your Greens at Housatonic River Brewing

Wednesday, May 27

5 - 7 p.m.

Volunteer Trail Crew Day in New Fairfield

Thursday, June 4

9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Trails of Sherman

Thursday, June 4

6 - 7 p.m.

CT Trails Day Hike at Birch Rocks Preserve

Saturday, June 6

10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Meet Your Greens at Brewery Legitimus

Thursday, June 25

5 - 7 p.m.

View Our Events Calendar

Northwest Connecticut Land Conservancy is a nonprofit regional land trust.

As a guardian of natural and working lands, public recreation areas, and drinking water resources,

NCLC permanently protects 14,400 acres (and growing) of vast, connected natural areas in

Litchfield and northern Fairfield Counties.