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The new administration’s removal of climate initiatives and federal funding freezes has created uncertainty and challenges. However, Connecticut remains committed to combating climate change and building resilience into our conserved landscapes. It is heartening to see that our state leaders are stepping up with new legislation to boost green infrastructure and protect more open spaces, reinforcing the work of our land trusts and making it clear that Connecticut won’t back down in the face of the climate crisis. No matter what happens at the national level, we’re keeping our focus on supporting the hands-on work of land trusts.

Empowering Land Trusts for Climate Action

Through CLCC’s Climate Smart Land Stewardship Grant Program, we’re empowering land trusts to play a pivotal role in our statewide nature-based solutions. Across the state, land trusts are taking action, restoring and enhancing our landscapes to better withstand the impacts of climate change.

• Bent of the River Audubon Center is developing a comprehensive forest management plan to improve resilience of riparian habitat along the Pomperaug River. Recent flooding has destabilized the riverbank, threatening water quality, habitat, forest health, and infrastructure. This plan will address these issues while incorporating natural climate solutions.
• The New Hartford Land Trust is enhancing habitat for pollinators, Monarch butterflies, birds, and other wildlife by establishing a native edge ecotone and meadow/grassland at their Alfred Sabolcik preserve. 
• The East Haddam Land Trust is promoting natural regeneration and building resilience at their Miller Farm Preserve by focusing on invasive species management, creating small clearings, and enhancing structural diversity. This effort will create healthier forests that can better withstand climate impacts and support diverse wildlife.

These stewardship activities are strengthening the ability of our ecosystems to adapt to changing conditions while supporting ecosystem health and biodiversity. Explore our interactive story map to learn more about these inspiring projects and discover how land trusts are making a difference across Connecticut.

Building Resilience for the Future

All of these projects emphasize long-term stewardship and proactive management. Land trusts are integrating climate data into their decision-making, ensuring that management plans are written to endure and thrive in the face of future climate impacts. Importantly, these land trusts are also engaging their local communities, landowners, and volunteers in the process, fostering a deeper understanding of the importance of conservation and stewardship of our lands.

CLCC will continue to offer educational programs and field visits to support the work of land trust stewardship staff and volunteers in disseminating this knowledge. The work of our land trust community is integral in creating a future where our forests, wetlands, farmlands, and coastal ecosystems are not only protected but are thriving as essential tools in combating climate change.

Get Involved!

Join the movement! Here’s how you can take action today:

• Support your local land trust: Donate or volunteer your time.
• Advocate for climate-smart policies: Contact your legislators and urge them to support climate action.
• Create habitat at home: Convert a patch of your lawn into a native plant garden.
• Learn more: Follow organizations like the North East Climate Adaptation Center and Northern Institute for Applied Climate Science for educational resources.

We are not powerless; our individual actions can collectively amount to significant change.

Ricky Bentley
Climate Smart Land Stewardship Coordinator