News

Remember the first time you saw a real waterfall? On Friday, May 23, a group of second graders saw one for the first time when they hiked around Sheep Farm North, a preserve managed by the Groton Open Space Association (GOSA). The students were visiting through the GOSA/Groton Public Schools hiking program, which introduces over 600 students annually to local open spaces.

Partnerships like this are the reason that CLCC awarded GOSA with its 2025 Excellence in Community Conservation Award, with special recognition of Lynn and Dan O’Connell for helping launch the hiking program in 2023.

“We’ve been fortunate to work with GOSA for many years and have always been inspired by their heart, energy, and ability to bring people together through land conservation,” said Amy Blaymore Paterson, Executive Director of the Connecticut Land Conservation Council. “Their programs are making a real difference—not just for the land, but for the entire Groton community.”

GOSA has made a lasting impact on land conservation by developing innovative community engagement initiatives that foster connections between people and nature, increasing awareness and appreciation for Groton’s natural resources. The Association provides volunteer support to lead hikes and facilitate educational experiences for students and families. Recognizing that transportation costs were a barrier to participation for many students, GOSA also sought and secured grant funding from the Kitchings Family Foundation to cover transportation costs for the 2024-25 school year, ensuring that more students could experience hands-on environmental education. Teacher feedback highlights the program’s success in boosting student interest in science, outdoor activity, and ecological awareness.

Their strong relationship with the Groton Public Schools system and the Town of Groton has also led to the creation of the “GO [Get Outdoors] Groton” partnership. This collaborative effort leverages the strengths of each organization to advance townwide conservation priorities, including Groton’s participation in the national Nature Everywhere program. GO Groton aims to connect students and residents with nature, promote outdoor recreation, and enhance the quality of life in Groton.

GOSA’s commitment to community engagement extends beyond Groton’s schools, as the Association engages residents of all ages through its diverse event offering. They lead outings with seniors from the Thrive 55+ program to promote physical activity and social connection in natural settings. They regularly host guided hikes open to the public to get people outdoors, experience the restorative power of nature, and foster a deeper appreciation for the importance of land conservation. They partner with the town’s Department of Recreation to engage summer program participants in outdoor activities.

Through these consistent efforts to create quality opportunities for connection, GOSA is building a strong community of advocates dedicated to preserving Groton’s open spaces for generations to come.

Read more via The Day: Program That Introduces Groton Students to the Outdoors Earns Award