Connecticut’s Moose at Great Mountain Forest Rambunctious Rutting and Long Term Research

Moose are an icon of the northern forests. Although moose have always been a rare sight in Connecticut’s forests, since 2002 they’ve been spotted in Great Mountain Forest where the vast unfragmented ecosystem provides them with a special haven. Usually solitary animals, all that changes in October when mating season (also known as rutting season) begins.

Most of us will never see a moose or witness the exciting breeding ritual known as rutting that happens every October in Great Mountain Forest, but it is exciting to think about. The courting scene heats up as bulls dig rutting pits, mark, them with urine, and compete for breeding rights. All the while cows seek attention and overtures from the bulls. Ruts are epic battles that can last for hours.

To get a better understanding of the Forest’s moose population, Great Mountain Forest initiated an intern study in 2020, deploying game cameras to known foraging spots and counting individual moose. As a result, 21 moose were identified including 11 mature bulls, two adolescent bulls, five cows, and three calves.

 

Although moose continue breeding in Great Mountain Forest, anecdotal reports suggest that their total population may be decreasing. Moose face many new challenges such as climate change and winter tick infestation.

To understand the effects that moose and white-tailed deer have on forest development, researchers Ed Faison, Senior Ecologist at Highstead Foundation, and Steve DeStefano, retired Leader, of Massachusetts Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit collaborated with Great Mountain Forest to set up experimental moose and deer exclusion plots within several patch cut harvests conducted in 2010. Each plot was fenced in different ways to filter which herbivore species would be able to access vegetation within the plot: one plot excluded both moose and white-tailed deer; the second excluded only moose but not white-tailed deer, while the third was left open for both species to feed freely. 

Comparing the trees, shrubs, and herbs among the plots over time allows researchers to study how selective foraging patterns and different browsing intensities affect the structure, composition, and growth rates of the forest. Moose browsing and wallowing likely contribute to different forest dynamics at Great Mountain Forest than would be observed in forests where only white-tailed deer are present – the latter being typical of most Connecticut forests.

 

“We are very happy to be hosting this exciting research and look forward to learning more about moose impacts on New England hardwood forests! The presence of moose at GMF is a testament to our history of expansive conservation and sound forest stewardship,” said Mike Zarfos, PhD, and Executive Director, of Great Mountain Forest.

 

About Great Mountain Forest

Great Mountain Forest (GMF) is a leader in forest stewardship. For more than a century, we have been demonstrating how sustainable management can protect biodiversity and support ecosystems. By serving as a hub for education and research, we are spreading the benefits of sustainable management so that communities across New England derive educational, economic, recreational, and health benefits from their forests—now and well into the future. GMF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit encompassing 6,200 acres of contiguous forestland in Norfolk, Canaan, and Falls Village Connecticut.

 

Stories from the Animals @ Institute for American Indian Studies with White Memorial Conservation Center

 Everyone loves a good story. Listening to stories especially those passed down through generations is one of the best ways to connect with each other and the world around us. The Institute for American Indian Studies located on 38 Curtis Road in Washington Connecticut in partnership with Litchfield’s White Memorial Conservation Center is presenting a powerful program called “Stories from Animals,” beginning at 2 p.m. on Saturday, October 19^th.

Colleen Harrak, White Memorial’s Environmental Educator will join award-winning storyteller, Darlene Kascak, of the Schaghticoke Tribal Nation and IAIS Educational Outreach Ambassador for an entertaining program that includes stories and live, local woodland animals. The goal of this program is to show participants how to experience Etuaptmumk - a Mi’kmaw saying that translates to “two-eyed seeing.” This idea encourages people to look at the same concept from both Western and Indigenous knowledge.

 

Oral tradition is an important cultural component in Native American culture because it is the very stories told that keep the knowledge and the traditions alive. “As a storyteller in Native communities, I bear a profound responsibility,” said Darlene Kascak. “I am entrusted with the task of preserving, protecting, and passing down oral stories that are hundreds if not thousands of years old. This role is not a duty it is also a deep-rooted passion that I hold dear. I am driven by the urgency to keep this tradition alive so that future generations can experience the beauty of learning through storytelling,” Kascak added.

The highlight of this program is the combination of several live animal ambassadors brought by the White Memorial Conservation Center and the Native American stories about each of these animals that offer timeless life lessons. The price of participation is $15 for non-members and $5 for members of the Institute. Pre-registration is advised by visiting iaismusueum.org.

 

About the Institute for American Indian Studies

Located on 15 acres of woodland, the IAIS offers educational programs, both permanent and changing exhibits and a replicated 16th-century Algonkian village. Its research department maintains extensive archeological and ethnographic collections and conducts archeological digs and other research. Its “Wigwam Escape” escape room offers an opportunity to solve a puzzle while learning about Indigenous life before European settlement. With a focus on “two-eyed seeing”, visitors can learn about the history of the American continent that incorporates more than12,000-year history of human habitation. The Institute for American Indian Studies is located at 38 Curtis Road, Washington, Connecticut.

Paul Miller Nissan Honored for Their 60th Anniversary with Proclamation by Town of Fairfield Designating “Paul Miller Nissan Day”

Fairfield First Selectman, William A. Gerber, presented Paul Miller with a Town Proclamation celebrating Miller Nissan’s 60th Anniversary. In part, the proclamation reads, “This year marks the incredible 60th anniversary of Paul Miller Nissan, a family-owned business that has proudly served thousands of customers from its Fairfield County location. The Town of Fairfield congratulates one of Fairfield’s longest-running family-owned businesses on its decades of outstanding service and further wishes Paul, Gregg, and Kyle many more years of success.”

 

Mr. Gerber was given a tour of the dealership at 930 Kings Highway where he made the formal presentation of the leather-bound proclamation citing Paul Miller Nissan as “a model business in our community” and designating August 14, 2024, as Paul Miller Nissan Day. The text concludes with the words, “IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the Town of Fairfield to be hereby affixed this 14th day of August 2024,” signed by William A. Gerber, First Selectman.

 

Paul Miller Nissan is one of the premier Nissan dealers in the tri-state region, operating from their sparkling headquarters – a model of comfort and convenience. The new Nissan lineup are marvels of engineering, styling, and performance; and their EV line, featuring the luxurious, all-electric Ariya, is turning heads and gaining fans. Says Paul, “The commitment my father made 60 years ago is the same one we live by today – treating our customers right so they keep coming back – some for almost 60 years! We have a stellar reputation and sensational vehicles for every driver in the family; and a sales, service, and administrative team that makes me proud to come to work every day. And in case you might still be wondering…it’s true – I am never going to retire. Why should I? I’m having more fun selling cars than ever!” 

 

If you’re in the market for a top-quality new or pre-owned vehicle, Paul, Gregg, and Kyle invite you to visit Paul Miller Nissan at 930 Kings Highway in Fairfield or  GetMillerized.com.

Whiting Mills Spooktacular Event October 5 and 6 and Tina's Baskets and Woven Art

 On Saturday, October 5^th and Sunday, October 6, ghosts, goblins, witches, and other heroes of horrors will abound in Whiting Mills located at 100 Whiting Street, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thirty Artists' Studios will be open and brimming with frightful delights, oddities, tantalizing treats, and whimsically spooky creations. In addition to exploring working artist studios decked out for Halloween, there will be scavenger hunts, a costume contest for adults and children, an interactive monster display, and candy for all trick-or-treaters! Best of all the admission to this event is FREE.

Take a chance to win this spooktacular basket! 

One studio not to be missed is Tina's Baskets and Woven Arts which has been cleverly decorated with all things Halloween. Tina Puckett is an internationally award-winning woven artist specializing in everything from intricate baskets and bowls to woven sculptures and wall hangings. When visiting the studio don't miss the chance to enter the drawing to win a beautiful Gothic black basket embellished by bittersweet that is brimming with Halloween candy!

If you can't make it to the Spooktacular event @ Whiting Mills on October 5^th and 6th, no worries, Tina's studio will remain decorated through October and will be open on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information about this award-winning artist as well as information about her classes visit tinasbaskets.com.

About Tina's Baskets

Tina Puckett is an internationally awarded weaver of baskets and woven arts. You can see her works in her studio #305/ Tina's Baskets. Located at Whiting Mills in Winsted, Connecticut. Tina has been weaving since 1981 using hand-dyed reeds, bittersweet vines, and a variety of found objects like beads or seagrass. Her work is showcased at galleries across the World and as well at her gallery/studio where you will often find her weaving on weekends from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Appointments are preferred and can be arranged by texting 860-309-6934.

This September Have a Boatload of Fun Cruise to Two Historic Lighthouses in Norwalk

 If you are looking for a different cruise experience this fall, sign up for the Norwalk Seaport Association’sNorwalk Seaport Association’s cruise featuring stops at two historic lighthouses on Saturday, September 28th. The boat will depart the Seaport's new dock at 70 Water Street at 10 a.m. and return at 3 p.m. This special cruise has been organized in collaboration with the Greens Ledge Light Preservation Society. To get tickets click here. 

This cruise is perfect for people who have an appreciation for maritime history and the simple pleasure of cruising the Norwalk Islands in the fall. Passengers may even see a subtle autumn glow of oaks and maples on Norwalk’s islands in the outer harbor. This five-hour cruise includes an hour-and-a-half stop at both Sheffield Island Lighthouse and the recently opened Greens Ledge. This tour is open to the public and offers the rare opportunity to visit two architecturally unique lighthouses that have guided ships with welcoming beacons through Norwalk Harbor for hundreds of years. Tickets are available online at http://www.seaport.org.

The first stop of the cruise is the recently refurbished Greens Ledge Lighthouse. Greens sits on a reef named after Pirate Green, who sailed with the infamous Captain Kidd. Local legend has it that Pirate Green was tied in chains to Greens Ledge as a warning to deter the dastardly deeds of marauding buccaneers.

Greens Ledge, on the National Register, is only one of 33 remaining spark plug lighthouses in existence in the United States. Named sparkplug because of their unique shape and water-tight structure made of metal, Greens Ledge construction was completed in 1902, for $60,000 ($2.5 million in 2024 dollars) to help mariners through the rocky shoals at the west entrance of Norwalk Harbor.

Today its 90-foot tower remains an active aid to navigation with its automated light and foghorn maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard. This lighthouse, whose Rip Rap was added from the Radio City Music Hall and Rockefeller Center excavation in 1932 is thought to be the inspiration for the legendary “Green Light” in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel, The Great Gatsby. It was occupied by lightkeepers for 70 years and is owned by a non-profit that restored it for 2.5 million in 2023. Visitors on this cruise will be able to tour both the inside of Greens Ledge as well as the outside pad and lower decks. Afterward, passengers can relax at the picnic tables and in Adirondack chairs located on the deck.

Located at the southern end of the outer harbor, Sheffield Island Lighthouse, on the National Register, is the final stop on this maritime excursion. Constructed in the Victorian style in 1868 of limestone masonry, Sheffield is a classic lighthouse replete with a distinctive metal octagonal light tower in the gable that offers views of the Manhattan skyline.

Sheffield Island Lighthouse has a fascinating history of industrious lighthouse keepers before being decommissioned in 1902 by the opening of Greens Ledge. After it closed, Sheffield Island became a haven for rumrunners during prohibition, a sanctuary for mothers and children during the cholera epidemic, and the location for a country club, before the Norwalk Seaport Association saved it in 1978.

Visitors can climb the tower that affords splendid views and tour the many rooms of the lighthouse that are being reinterpreted to the way lightkeepers would have lived here in the 19th century. Afterward, there will be enough time to picnic in the wooden pavilion, walk along the beach, use the telescope, and explore the adjacent Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge, a birding hot spot.

It is suggested that you dress in layers, and pack a picnic lunch. For the comfort of all the passengers, please make sure coolers fit under the seats of the vessel (18-20 inches). It is best to arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure. If the trip is canceled due to weather conditions, you will be notified by email. For safety reasons, wear closed-toe shoes and, even though it is fall, pack sunscreen, charge up your camera or cell phone, and don't forget to bring your sense of fun to this extraordinary maritime experience.

Ready For a Challenge? A Fall Ride through the Unspoiled Beauty of Great Mountain Forest

Sign up for this year’s Tour de Forest bike ride, which will be held on Saturday, October 19, to support two local nonprofit organizations, the Great Mountain Forest and Norfolk Rails to Trails. This unique annual event offers gravel riders an unprecedented opportunity to spend a crisp autumn day enjoying the stunning beauty of one of the state’s largest undeveloped woodland areas -- Norfolk’s Great Mountain Forest. New riders are welcome. Register here: https://www.bikereg.com/66582.

This is the chance to ride through and around one of the most pristine forests in Connecticut
Photo Credit Andrea Moss

The Tour de Forest offers two different courses, allowing riders to choose the course that matches their level of endurance. The first course, the Icebox Gravel, kicks off at 9:30 am, taking riders along 30 rugged miles of gravel and paved roads, including sections conserved by the Norfolk Land Trust. The second course, the signature Tour de Forest, starts at 10 am for a 13-mile ride on a mix of gravel and paved roads wending through and around the spectacular Great Mountain Forest. Riders are advised to keep their eyes peeled for wildlife -- you never know what you might see! Great Mountain Forest’s roads are repaired and maintained annually to support the forest’s management, research, educational, and recreational activities.

The ride begins and ends at the Norfolk Curling Club, where registration begins at 8 a.m. All proceeds support the programs of Norfolk Rails to Trails and Great Mountain Forest. Great Mountain Forest is committed to responsible stewardship and conservation of the land for future generations and Norfolk Rails to Trails is a champion of public access to Norfolk’s unique natural resources.

Photo Credit Andrea Moss

 

At the ride’s end, bikers refuel with shots of maple syrup produced by Great Mountain Forest’s team. The fun continues at the pig roast offered by the Norfolk Curling Club for an additional fee; click here to register. https://norfolkcurlingclub.org/index.php/events/event-listings/fundraiser/pig-roast Registration fees for the Gravel Rides are $50 per adult, $25 per teen, and free for young riders. To register, click here. https://www.bikereg.com/66582.

 

“This ride is perfect for people who want to get outdoors on a crisp autumn day and ride through one of Connecticut’s largest forests for a good cause,” said Mike Zarfos, PhD, Executive Director, of Great Mountain Forest. “When we are in the forest, we feel inspired, healed, and strengthened, and that is why we encourage everyone to come to Norfolk and join in the fun of this ride. Plus there will be sweet and savory treats at the end!”

Photo Credit Andrea Moss

About Great Mountain Forest

Great Mountain Forest (GMF) is a leader in forest stewardship. For more than a century, we have been demonstrating how sustainable management can protect biodiversity and support ecosystems. By serving as a hub for education and research, we are spreading the benefits of sustainable management so that communities across New England derive educational, economic, recreational, and health benefits from their forests—now and well into the future. GMF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit encompassing 6,200 acres of contiguous forestland in Norfolk, Canaan, and Falls Village Connecticut.

W.E.B. Du Bois Sculpture Project Receives $50,000 Grant

 The W.E.B. Du Bois Sculpture Project has been awarded $50,000 from the Massachusetts Office of Economic Development for the completion of a statue of W.E.B. Du Bois to be sited in front of the Mason Public Library on the main street of Great Barrington, MA. 

Artists model of the sculpture

The funding was requested by State Senator Paul Mark, Chair of the State’s Joint Committee on Tourism, Arts, and Cultural Development. “Few people know that Du Bois—a civil rights giant and founder of the NAACP—was born and raised in Great Barrington,” said Sen. Mark. “These funds will help complete the monument and promote Black history and tourism in the Berkshires.”

“We are grateful to Senator Mark for supporting our efforts to recognize Du Bois and eager to join him in promoting Black history in the Berkshires,” said Ari Zorn, co-chair of the W.E.B. Du Bois Sculpture Project.

The non-profit Sculpture Project has partnered with Great Barrington and the Mason Public Library to redesign the library front as a community meeting place. A life-size statue of Du Bois will welcome visitors while, inside the library, a collection of Du Bois’s books and private correspondence will be on display.

The Sculpture Project has raised $290,000 for the statue from foundations and private donors. Sculptor Richard Blake is now at work on the monument, which will be dedicated in 2025.

QR codes that direct visitors to the Du Bois homestead and other Black historic sites in the Berkshires will also be developed.

About the W.E.B. Du Bois Sculpture Project

The W.E.B. Du Bois Sculpture Project was launched in May 2022 by a volunteer group of local citizens to recognize Du Bois’ scholarly achievements in the fight for racial equality. The Project celebrates Great Barrington, a town whose long abolitionist history and powerful commitment to public education helped shape the person Du Bois became. The Sculpture Project is endorsed and supported by town officials including the Great Barrington Select Board, the Great Barrington Library Trustees, W.E.B. Du Bois Town Legacy Committee, among many others.

About W.E.B. Du Bois

The non-profit Sculpture Project has partnered with Great Barrington and the Mason Public Library to redesign the library front as a community meeting place. A life-size statue of Du Bois will welcome visitors while, inside the library, a collection of Du Bois’s books and private correspondence will be on display.

Annual Founders Day Clambake to Raise Funds for the Institute for American Indian Studies Local Indigenous Artists to be Celebrated

 The Institute for American Indian Studies is celebrating its annual Founders Day Clambake on Saturday, September 14, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Riverwalk Pavilion in Washington Depot, 11 School Street. Along with the traditional Indigenous foods of lobster, clams, corn, and potatoes, guests will be treated to an array of artworks by two featured artists, painter Claudine Purdue and fashion designer Brandi Sawyer-Emmons. A silent auction will feature original artwork by local artists such as Elizabeth McDonald and Ruth Jaffe, as well as prints by Cora Marshall, a Native American artist, gift certificates and items from local businesses, and many other items and collectibles. Ojibwe flute artist Allen Mahahbee will perform and is offering one of his hand-made flutes to the silent auction.

The cost to attend this fundraiser is $75.00 per person. Tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance. No tickets will be sold at the door. To register, visit online at https://www.iaismuseum.org by September 12.

The focus on Indigenous visual arts is new this year, as the IAIS is publicizing its annual art scholarship program. The Institute gives a small stipend to an emerging Native American artist currently enrolled in an arts program and offers them an opportunity for a one-person show at the museum. This year’s recipient will be announced at the event. Claudine Purdue is the 2023 artist. Her paintings explore the stories of Mi’Kimaq and Acadians who are her ancestors. Brandi Sawyer-Emmons, known as BThunder, creates Native American-inspired apparel and accessories including her popular Teepee handbag. Clambake attendees will have an opportunity to bid on items created by these two award-winning artists, along with the other silent auction items. Winners will be announced after this dinner.

About the Institute for American Indian Studies

Located on 15 acres of woodland, the IAIS offers educational programs, both permanent and changing exhibits and a replicated 16th-century Algonkian village. Its research department maintains extensive archeological and ethnographic collections and conducts archeological digs and other research. Its “Wigwam Escape” escape room offers an opportunity to solve a puzzle while learning about Indigenous life before European settlement. With a focus on “two-eyed seeing”, visitors can learn about the history of the American continent that incorporates more than 12,000-year history of human habitation. The Institute for American Indian Studies is located at 38 Curtis Road, Washington, Connecticut.

 

 

Three Days of Fun! Norwalk Oyster Festival September 6, 7, 8

 

The last great event of the summer is taking place at Norwalk’s Veteran’s Park on September 6, 7, and 8 with tickets on sale at seaport.org and at the gate. This festival is the Seaport Association’s largest fundraiser that helps with their mission of education, preservation, and restoration of the Sheffield Island Lighthouse, Connecticut’s maritime icon. One of the most unique things about the Norwalk Oyster Festival is that all the entertainment is included with the price of a ticket, and all kids, 12 and under get in free on Sunday with a paying adult, making this one of the most family friendly events around.

This year’s stellar entertainment line-up on the Optimum Main Stage will please all age groups. Friday night kicks off with the exuberant performance of Funky Dawgs at 7 p.m. and is followed by the high energy performance Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes at 8:30 p.m. On Saturday, Badboy takes the stage at 1 p.m. and is followed by JD Leonard known for his modern country vibe that keeps fans mesmerized. The Norwalk Oyster Festival is excited to welcome back Mike DelGuidice who will be performing at 8:30 p.m. on Saturday. DelGuidice has been wowing audiences around the world with his powerful vocals, showcasing his talent, eclectic songwriting, friendly, and engaging stage presence, and has built a national following as a full time touring member of Billy Joel's Band. On Sunday, Connecticut’s own Drew Angus will be performing with his band at 2:00. This year, the Norwalk Oyster Festival is ending with “feel good energy” when Let’s Sing Taylor gets all the “Swifties” in the crowd up dancing and singing along with what has been hailed nationwide as the ultimate Taylor Swift tribute band.

The entertainment doesn’t stop there. New acts this year include the Ready Go Dog Show featuring high-flying canine athletes. The second new act is the XPOGO Show composed of the most talented and experienced extreme POGO champion pro athletes who have performed in 26 countries and on America’s Got Talent. There is plenty of family fun especially in Kids Cove where unlimited ride wristbands are offered for $35 on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For shoppers and treasure hunters, the New England Crafts Village offers the work of 80+ vendors that offer items that appeal to all tastes, budgets, and ages. And, for foodies, the Norwalk Oyster Festival is a gastronomic extravaganza. Foodies rejoice at the fest’s unique offerings from Mexico, Columbia, Greece, Jamaica, and Italy. Not to be forgotten are the “gifts of the sea,” that New Englanders have celebrated for a good long time - lobsters, clam chowda, and oysters, of course! Admission is $15 for adults, $10 for seniors, and $8 for kids 5-12 (free on Sunday with a paying adult). On Friday the festival hours are 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tickets are available online at seaport.org and at the gate. Shuttles are available from Norwalk Community College and Calf Pasture Beach. For detailed information seaport.org.

About First County Bank First County Bank, headquartered in Stamford, CT for over 170 years, is an independent mutual community bank with 13 branches in Stamford, Norwalk, Darien, Greenwich, Fairfield, New Canaan, and Westport offering deposit products, mortgages, wealth management, business banking services, and a full array of digital banking products including mobile and online banking. First County Bank has more than 220 employees, assets in excess of $2 billion and is a winner of the Hearst Connecticut Top WorkPlaces award 2020-2023. For additional information, please visit www.firstcountybank.com, or follow us @Firstcountybank on Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn. About the Norwalk Seaport Association The Norwalk Seaport Association was founded in 1978 as a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation, education, and public awareness of Norwalk’s maritime environment and heritage. The Seaport Association and its volunteers are solely responsible for organizing and financing the Oyster Festival. In addition to the Oyster Festival, the Norwalk Seaport Association owns Sheffield Lighthouse; its volunteers maintain the lighthouse and grounds as a museum and nature preserve. For more information, visit http://www.seaport.org

2024 Forestry Interns Complete Summer Intensive at Great Mountain Forest

For each of the last 76 years, Great Mountain Forest (GMF) has offered a select group of forestry undergraduate students from around the country an immersive summer program in all aspects of forest management in GMF’s more than 6,000 acres of diverse landscapes and managed forests in Norfolk, Canaan, and Falls Village, Connecticut. 

Working under the direction of experienced forester Matt Gallagher,  who holds a Master of Forestry from the Yale School of the Environment, this summer’s forestry interns gained hands-on, in-depth experience and skills working through a curriculum that included measuring forest tree species diversity and regeneration on 550-acres, harvesting, and processing timber, managing invasive plants and insects, and maintaining the infrastructure of a working forest. In addition to hard work, the interns explored some of the career paths they might pursue visiting a local sawmill, shadowing a researcher at the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, and visiting with state and nonprofit forestry and conservation professionals.

The 2024 GMF Forest Interns were Ian Montgomery-Gehrt, a senior at Paul Smith's College majoring in Forest Ecological Management, Kyle Joray, a junior at Paul Smith's College studying Ecological Forest Management, and Daniel Semmel, an undergrad at the University of Connecticut in the Natural Resource Program. The long-term impact of the Great Mountain Forestry Intern program can be seen through the careers of hundreds of men and women graduates who have gone on to a range of important forestry and conservation-related professions throughout the country from professors of ecology and forest firefighters to forest managers, directors of land trusts, and loggers.

To learn more, see this short video celebrating the 75th Anniversary of the GMF Forest Intern Program at https://vimeo.com/870470040

 "It is so rewarding to see the way these forest professionals grow, working out in the field and developing a diversity of skills whether it is learning how to work the sawmill, collect forest data, or simply build professional relationships,” said Michael Zarfos, Ph.D., and GMF Executive Director. “Our ultimate goal is to impart meaningful skills, experience, and a landscape of possibilities, positively influencing the interns’ careers. They are the future of our New England forests."

 

About Great Mountain Forest

Great Mountain Forest (GMF) is a leader in forest stewardship. For more than a century, we have been demonstrating how sustainable management can protect biodiversity and support ecosystems. By serving as a hub for education and research, we are spreading the benefits of sustainable management so that communities across New England derive educational, economic, recreational, and health benefits from their forests—now and well into the future. GMF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit encompassing 6,200 acres of contiguous forestland in Norfolk, Canaan, and, Falls Village, Connecticut.

Artifact ID Day at the Institute for American Indian Studies August 24th

Do you have any stone artifacts or Northeastern Native American cultural items? Between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., on August 24th the Research Department of the Institute for American Indian Studies will be hosting an Artifact I.D. Day. For many years, this event has drawn interesting artifacts to identify such as fossils, arrowheads, rock specimens, and Native American handmade items. Visitors are encouraged to bring their most unusual objects.

It is fun to join the conversation as the Educators at IAIS identify and provide interesting commentary about your items. While they can’t appraise or speculate about the value of an object, they can certainly talk about the who, what, when, where, and how of your mystery items!  

Space is limited and pre-registration is appreciated. Please visit their website to register online. Questions? Please call (860) 868 0518 or email events@iaismuseum.org . Price of participation: $15 for Non-Members, $5 for IAIS Members. 

Celebrate A Three-Day Extravaganza of Fun, Food, and Music 46th Norwalk Seaport Association Oyster Festival Set for September 6, 7, 8

 The 46^th Norwalk Oyster Festival presented by First County Bank on Friday, September 6, Saturday, September 7, and Sunday, September 8 at Veteran’s Park in Norwalk is all about bringing together world-class entertainers and having family fun, at the last great event of the summer. Two stages, the Main Stage sponsored by Optimum and the Entertainment Tent sponsored by Abbey Tent, food from around the world, craft beer and thirst quenching drinks, shopping, arts and crafts, and Kids Cove, an exciting children’s area is included with paid admission to the festival is what this three-day festival is all about.

“First County Bank is thrilled to continue our support of the 46^th Annual Norwalk Oyster Festival,” said Robert Granata, Chairman, and CEO of First County Bank. “We look forward to this weekend celebration every year, a popular event that always generates a large turnout of Fairfield County residents and beyond. “

 This is a special year for the Seaport Association, as they are celebrating their 46^th year as an organization, and the 156^th anniversary of Sheffield Island Lighthouse, Connecticut’s maritime icon. “The Norwalk Oyster Festival, the Seaport Association’s largest fundraiser helps us in our mission of education, preservation, and restoration of the Sheffield Island Lighthouse. Come join us for three days of fun, music, arts and crafts, and food at Veterans Park, a beautiful venue on the water in Norwalk, Connecticut,” said Mike Reilly, Chairman of the Norwalk Oyster Festival and President of the Norwalk Seaport Association. “The Norwalk Oyster Festival’s volunteers, sponsors, members, and vendors are what keeps the Seaport Association viable and thriving year after year,” Reilly stated. 

For the Whole Family

There are so many family-friendly events offered at the Norwalk Oyster Festival that will keep parents and kids entertained for hours. There is always a spellbinding line-up of shows that deliver an incredible range of experiences. Best of all, these events are not only included with the price of the ticket, but they also take place throughout the day at various locations so attendees never miss a performance, or can see their favorite act as many times as they like! On Sunday, kids 12 and under get in free with a paid adult. A $35 unlimited ride wristband is being offered on Saturday and Sunday which is good from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

 

New This Year

XPOGO Show

See Pogo like never before! This classic toy has been turned into a high-tech big air machine jettisoning professional stuntmen high into the air! This year, the Xpogo Stunt Team, composed of Championship Pro Athletes will make its debut at the Norwalk Oyster Festival and are sure to amaze the crowd with their high-flying acrobatic performance. The Xpogo Stunt Team is the most talented and experienced extreme pogo performance team in the world. Be prepared to have your minds blown by their stunning tricks off of obstacles, crowd-pleasing flips, and the high jump where these athletes jump more than ten feet into thin air! Xpogo will leave you breathless until their final flip! Get a close-up view of this extreme sport that has taken the world by storm. They have performed in 25-plus countries and appeared on ABC, NBC, CNN, and America’s Got Talent. They also have the unique honor of holding 14 Guinness World Records.

Ready Go Dog Show

This year the whole family will enjoy the Ready Go Dog Show that packs plenty of oohs and aahhs with its combination of comedy, family fun, and amazing high-flying canine athletes. The show consists of rescued dogs and features champion Frisbee dogs, thrill-seeking diving dogs, and the highest box jump dog in the world! A highlight for the audience is the chance to meet and greet the four-legged stars of this thrilling show after their riveting performance. The Ready Go Dog Show is part of  ESPN’s Greatest Half-Time Acts and has been seen on the FOX game show, Game of Talents, the Today Show, Friends, and many others!

 

Entertainment Line-Up Optimum Main Stage

We couldn’t put this festival together without the support of our many sponsors including our Presenting Sponsor, First County Bank, and Optimum our Main Stage sponsor.

 

Friday, September 6

 

Funky Dawgs  - 7 p.m. - Funky Dawgz kicks off the evening on Friday, Sept. 6 at 7 p.m. on the Optimum Main Stage with an exuberant performance that combines a contagious upbeat mix of original music, hip-hop, funk, and today’s top hits played with a brass twist.

Southside Johnny and The Asbury Jukes – 8:30 p.m.  - Dubbed, “the Godfather of New Jersey Sound,” Southside Johnny has been bringing “the party” to stages around the world for close to 50 years. On Friday at 8:30 p.m., he is bringing his powerful sound, gritty vocals, charismatic personality, and quirky sense of humor to the Norwalk Oyster Festival. Fans are likely to hear some of the band’s best-known songs like “I Don’t Want to Go Home”, “Havin a Party”, and “The Fever,” along with some new music from the highly acclaimed Soultime album and Live from E Street.

 

Saturday, September 7

BADBOY – 1 p.m. - Saturday’s music on the Optimum Main Stage starts when BADBOY takes the stage at 1 p.m. They are rocking music from every decade and genre from 80s classics to top forty hits to country music and more. Their performance gets the afternoon off to an exciting start as attendees immerse themselves in the irresistible spirit of their sound.

JD Leonard @ 7 p.m. - A long-established “go-to” singer/songwriter, J.D. Leonard, who hails from Tennessee, is opening for Mike DelGuidice on Saturday at 7 p.m. He’s written singles for the likes of Bonnie Tyler (“Love is the Knife”) and placed a number of songs in over a dozen films. Tonight get ready to celebrate the music of JD Leonard, his “Just Drive Show” and much more. His performance highlights the best of modern country music that is timeless.

Mike DelGuidice @ 8:30 p.m. - “The Norwalk Oyster Festival is excited to be welcoming back renowned vocalist, singer /songwriter, and recording artist, Mike DelGuidice,” said Mike Reilly. “Currently DelGuidice tours the world with Billy Joel including performances every month at the iconic Madison Square Garden in New York City and we are happy that he will be here at the Norwalk Oyster Festival on Saturday, September 7, 2024, at 8:30 p.m.,” Reilly continued. “This will be an unforgettable evening with Mike DelGuidice and his band, performing a show of astonishing renditions of some of the biggest names in Classic Rock and a few of Mike’s eclectic original songs, and much more,” Reilly concluded.

Sunday, September 8

 

Drew Angus – 2:00 p.m. - The fun continues on Sunday afternoon with the soulful voice and riveting performance of Connecticut’s own, Drew Angus, who has shared the stage with Stevie Nicks, Pat Benatar, Ann Wilson of Heart, Andrea Bocelli, and many others. Oyster Fest attendees are in for a musical treat, as this rising star performs a combination of his music and covers by other artists that is polished, free-spirited, upbeat, and irresistible.

Let’s Sing Taylor @ 4 p.m. - The final musical event of the festival is calling all Taylor Swift fans to head to the Optimum Main Stage at 4 p.m. for a riveting live band experience celebrating the music of Taylor Swift. This has been hailed as the ultimate tribute to the music of Taylor Swift that has taken the country by storm! This show exudes feel-good energy! So put on your Taylor Swift-inspired clothes and get ready to sing along with the band. It may not be the real thing, but it is packed with all the fun that comes with a Swift concert.

 

Entertainment Tent

Once again this year Abbey Tent is sponsoring our Entertainment Tent that will be jamming with some of the area's most entertaining local bands that will keep the party going all day and night. Enjoy music from nearly every genre of music performed from country to good old rock n' roll.

For the Foodies

The Norwalk Oyster Festival is a gastronomic extravaganza! Foodies rejoice at the fest’s unique offerings from Mexico, Columbia, Greece, Jamaica, and Italy. Not to be forgotten are the “gifts of the sea,” that New Englanders have celebrated for a good long time - lobsters, clam chowda, and oysters, of course! Whether you are craving a salty or savory meal, a sugary treat to satisfy your sweet tooth, an afternoon or evening snack, you’ll find it here. And, if you work up a thirst there are plenty of choices from soft and exotic fruit drinks, to our popular craft beer tent offering more than forty beers.

Go On A Treasure Hunt

If you like to shop, head to the Arts and Crafts area where 80+ fine artists and crafters display whimsical as well as practical items that appeal to all tastes, budgets, and ages. Jewelry, paintings, pottery, sculpture, clothing, home décor, and wearable art are just some of the treasures to be found. At the Seaport Tent, learn about Norwalk’s oyster history, and Sheffield Island Lighthouse, and browse specialty items celebrating the island and lighthouse.

 

 

Where - The Norwalk Oyster Festival is held at Veteran’s Park, adjacent to Norwalk Harbor on Seaview Avenue in Norwalk, CT.

 

Admission- Adults $15, Seniors  $10 (65+), Children 5 - 12 $8, (Free on Sunday with paid adult), and Children under 5 are free. To avoid the wait, tickets can be purchased online at http://www.seaport.org Credit cards are accepted at the gate. Three ATMs on the festival grounds.

 

Ride Wrist Bands- Ride wristbands are available Saturday and Sunday for $35 for unlimited rides from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

 

Hours- Friday, Sept. 6, from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday, September 7, from 11 a.m. - 11 p.m., and Sunday, September 8 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. 

Parking & Shuttles

Free parking and shuttle buses are available at these locations:

9/6 – Norwalk Community College and Calf Pasture Beach 5:30– 11:30 p.m.

9/7 - Norwalk Community College and Calf Pasture Beach and Norwalk City Hall – 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 p.m.

9/8 - Norwalk Community College and Calf Pasture Beach and Norwalk City Hall – 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 p.m.

 

Fee Parking

Webster and Haviland Street parking lot, and the Maritime and Iron Works Garages. All are within walking distance of the festival.

 

About First County Bank

First County Bank, headquartered in Stamford, CT for over 170 years, is an independent mutual community bank with 13 branches in Stamford, Norwalk, Darien, Greenwich, Fairfield, New Canaan, and Westport offering deposit products, mortgages, wealth management, business banking services, and a full array of digital banking products including mobile and online banking. First County Bank has more than 220 employees, assets in excess of $2 billion, and is a winner of the Hearst Connecticut Top WorkPlaces Award 2020-2023. For additional information, please visit www.firstcountybank.com, or follow us @Firstcountybank on Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn.

 

About the Norwalk Seaport Association

The Norwalk Seaport Association was founded in 1978 as a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation, education, and public awareness of Norwalk’s maritime environment and heritage. The Seaport Association and its volunteers are solely responsible for organizing and financing the Oyster Festival. In addition to the Oyster Festival, the Norwalk Seaport Association owns Sheffield Lighthouse; its volunteers maintain the lighthouse and grounds as a museum and nature preserve. For more information, visit http://www.seaport.org