Groton Open Space Association

Acquisition related activities - The Town of Groton reached out to GOSA over the past year to financially contribute in support of the purchase of the Wolfebrook property in Mystic, CT. GOSA agreed to help fund the project and partner on developing plans for potential uses and management of the 161 acre property. Saving the property will help protect Eccleston Brook and surrounding wetlands along with neighboring forests and wildlife. A large portion of Eccleston Brook, which flows through the property, will be protected from development and pollution as it flows through the Merritt Family Farm to Palmer Cove. Most importantly, the property features a large pond and numerous wetland and vernal pools, including one of the biggest vernal pools in New England.

Support for ongoing public access to properties. This mission supports keeping GOSA properties open for public access. Signage, trail maintenance, bridge building, maps and other typical access related expenses. GOSA's properties are open to the public 365 day a year during daylight hours.

General Stewardship of Land - GOSA maintains 645 acres of trailed properties with fields, forests and streams, one coastal shoreline property and one property in a downtown area. Activities include winter mowing and cleaning, removal of invasive species and reintroduction of native plants. Stewardship is a year-long commitment to managing and maintaining our properties for active public use and the health of the environment.