Monthly Review | August 2024

Hi Amy,


The power of nature was on full display this summer.


Following the oppressive heat in July, record-breaking storms swept through our state this past month, particularly in the southwest, where up to 10 inches of rain fell. The damage was profound—washouts of roads and bridges, mudslides, and heartbreaking loss of life. The impact on homes, businesses, natural lands, and wildlife was immense, with flooded farmlands and shattered livelihoods leaving families and communities in distress.


This devastation is a frustrating reminder of a missed opportunity, yet again, to address the climate crisis during this past legislative session when important bills that would have elevated nature-based solutions as a critical component of the state’s climate strategy were left on the table.



Connecticut's forests, wetlands, riparian buffers, and healthy soils play crucial roles in mitigating and adapting to the increasingly severe impacts of climate change. They sequester and store carbon, provide flood control, and offer other essential ecosystem services like clean water and air. 

Nature is our formidable ally in strengthening resilience and one of our most potent weapons in this fight against climate change.


Our commitment to conserving, protecting, and advocating for it has never been more vital and urgent. 



Sincerely,

Amy Blaymore Paterson
Executive Director

P.S. Are you interested in taking a lead on advocacy on behalf of your land trust? Let's talk! Please contact me.

Opening the Trails for All

CLCC Partnership Empowers Joshua's Trust to Enhance Land Conservation and Accessibility

The importance of land conservation extends beyond preserving natural beauty; it includes ensuring that everyone can access and enjoy these spaces. 


We are thrilled to announce the release of the final report and a stunning collection of photos showcasing the progress made by Joshua's Trust, thanks to a CLCC implementation grant.


This initiative, part of our project, funded with a grant from the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, highlights the power of community collaboration in making natural spaces more welcoming and inclusive.

Learn how Joshua's Trust, with input from diverse user groups and CLCC's support, has improved accessibility and inclusivity across its preserves. New trail signs, expanded parking, and multilingual kiosks highlight the positive impact of thoughtful planning and community engagement on conservation efforts.

Read About This Success Story>>

The Future of Connecticut Land Conservation

Key Insights from the 2023-2024 Land Trust Census

This comprehensive census, the first of its kind in the state, offers invaluable insights into Connecticut’s land conservation efforts, shedding light on the scale, pace, and priorities of the state's land trusts.



For over a century, Connecticut’s land trusts have played a crucial role in preserving the natural and working landscapes that define the state.


As the only statewide service provider for land trusts, CLCC undertook this census to gain a deeper understanding of these vital organizations' work. The goal was to quantify land conservation efforts, identify current and future priorities, and discover ways to better support land trusts in achieving their missions.

“Our land trusts are the backbone of Connecticut’s conservation efforts,” said Amy Blaymore Paterson, Executive Director of CLCC. “The results of this census provide a clear and detailed picture of their incredible work. We are thrilled to share these findings and use them to further strengthen and elevate land conservation in Connecticut.”

Click Here to Access the Report >>

Join us for the Connecticut Cocktail Hour

Rally 2024: The National Land Trust Conservation Conference

Join your fellow Nutmeggers as we kick off the 2024 National Land Conservation Conference (Rally) with a special Connecticut Happy Hour.


This exclusive gathering is a perfect opportunity to network, share ideas, and celebrate our collective efforts in land conservation. Enjoy delicious hors d’oeuvres and drinks, take in the breathtaking views, and connect with fellow conservation enthusiasts from across Connecticut. 


Thanks to the generous underwriting support from Aspetuck Land Trust, Avalonia Land Conservancy, Joshua’s Trust, Northwest Connecticut Land Conservancy, and the Connecticut Land Conservation Council, this event is free for all Connecticut participants.

Information and RSVP>>

Help Preserve Connecticut's Wetlands

Support Conservation with the Connecticut Migratory Bird Conservation Stamp

The Connecticut Migratory Bird Conservation Stamp Program stands as the state’s only dedicated source of funding for wetland protection. 



Since its inception in 1993, the program has contributed and leveraged over $4 million for the protection and restoration of wetlands across Connecticut.


Healthy wetlands are vital to the survival of over 20% of all wildlife species in Connecticut, including painted and spotted turtles, pickerel frogs, and all 12 of the salamander species found in our state.


By purchasing a Connecticut Migratory Bird Conservation Stamp, you are directly contributing to the preservation of these vital ecosystems and the wildlife that depends on them. 

Click Here to Learn More>>
Don't Forget to Keep An Eye On...
Program Calendar

There are year-round opportunities to get involved with CLCC and further your conservation work. Check out our program calendar for a complete list >>

Job Board

Looking for a career in conservation, or hoping to get greater exposure for your job posting? Check out CLCC's free job board >>

Grant Opportunities

CLCC maintains a growing list of external funding opportunities for conservation, stewardship, programming, and more. See what funding is available right now >>

Help Support Our Work

Make Your Gift to CLCC Today >>
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Connecticut Land Conservation Council
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The mission of the Connecticut Land Conservation Council is to elevate and strengthen land conservation in Connecticut. We envision is a future where every Connecticut community is supported and sustained by a diverse mix of conserved land, and land conservation is embraced as an essential community value.


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