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This summer, CLCC was fortunate to have Avery Cotton join our team on a summer internship. A sophomore at Columbia University, he brought a unique perspective and a passion for the intersection of climate science and business. Avery quickly became an invaluable part of our team as he dove into research for an upcoming CLCC report and led a memorable bird and hike.

Researching Land Trust Impacts

Avery’s main project involved deep research for a new report, which will highlight the economic and community-level impact of land trusts across the state. He delved into the economics of urban forestry and agriculture, gaining a new appreciation for the vital and often unquantifiable contributions land trusts make to their community and to our state. It was a summer of learning, as he collaborated with and learned from experts while gaining firsthand exposure to how a nonprofit operates.

Birding and Hiking with The Carver Foundation

Beyond his research, Avery’s personal passion for birding led him to organize and lead a Bird & Hike for local youth. Using his existing relationship with The Carver Foundation of Norwalk, he arranged a fun and educational outing for a group of second-graders.

The kids, armed with binoculars and bird guides, explored the Jefferson School grounds with Avery. They loved spotting birds like a soaring Osprey, a raucous American Crow, and a pair of Northern Mockingbirds. Avery also played common bird calls, and the kids were thrilled to recognize calls they’d heard around their own homes. The day was filled with excitement as the kids left with cold popsicles and a newfound appreciation for nature in their own backyards.

In addition to connecting CLCC with The Carver, Avery was instrumental in identifying and establishing relationships with community-based organizations for future bird and hikes, such as the Wakeman Boys & Girls Club and Horizons at Greens Farms Academy.

While he’s now back at school, Avery hopes to remain involved and co-lead more bird and hike events in the future.

Avery’s experience is a great example of what an internship at CLCC can be: a chance to gain real-world experience, connect with like-minded people, and make a tangible impact on land conservation in Connecticut. 

We want to extend a huge thank you to Avery for all his hard work and dedication.