Caring for the Land Forever

Once a property has been acquired, the GLT takes on the responsibility to care for the land.  Stewardship is a dynamic process that involves: planning for the long-term management of each property, conducting periodic inspections, and restoring habitats.  Professional staff, supported by teams of trained volunteers, oversee  inspections that are the backbone of the stewardship program.

Agnew Apple Orchard. Grafting apple trees.

What are stewardship responsibilities?
During the acquisition process, GLT's stewardship team develops a plan and an overall vision for the land.  These plans provide structure for all future property inspections and take into consideration the natural features of the land as well as perceived threats to them.  They incorporate the desires of the original land donors. Some stewardship plans call for annual monitoring while others require specific restoration work or a special project to promote the biodiversity of the site.  Learn more about GLT's current stewardship initiative: restoring meadows. 

Wildlife corridors and natural communities of plants and animals know no boundaries that is why the GLT works in earnest to engage community members in our land conservation efforts.  Through educational events and workshops GLT reaches beyond property lines to inspire owners of neighboring land to adopt environmentally friendly lawn-care and home maintenance practices to add to the overall health of the neighborhood.

Forsberg Preserve. Meadow restoration.		Duck Pond Hill Preserve. Chestnut Tree project.

Volunteer with GLT's Stewardship Team
The GLT recently launched its stewardship training program. Leaders were chosen for their extensive volunteer work, commitment to the preservation of land, and willingness to regularly head out into the wilds of Greenwich. They spent time reviewing GIS and aerial maps, property deeds, and then ventured outside to conduct a complete property inspection. Newly trained stewardship leaders have taken teams of volunteers on numerous properties, inspecting and thereby protecting our open space.

On select Thursdays, the GLT runs stewardship work sessions where volunteers don work gloves and boots to undertake projects ranging from invasive plant removal to trail building and fence repair.  As a member of the GLT's stewardship group, you will learn about Greenwich's natural heritage (local streams, plants, geology, trails, wildlife and more) while being outdoors.  Meet neighbors and make new friends while strengthening your connection with the Greenwich community.  It's fun and free!  Volunteer with our stewardship team!