Tuesday, June 30, 2020

Take a Harbor Cruise on the 4th of July Week and Weekend with the Seaport Association

The Sheffield Island Lighthouse is an iconic symbol of Connecticut’s maritime history.  This historic lighthouse and light keeper’s cottage is located at the southern end of Norwalk’s necklace of islands on the west entrance of the Norwalk River in Long Island Sound. One of the best ways to kick of the season is to take a cruise on the C.J. Toth on Wednesday, July 1, Thursday, July 2, and Thursday, July 3 at 11:30 a.m., 2 p.m., and 2 p.m., there will also be a sunset cruise on all three days beginning at 6:30 p.m.  Tickets for this exciting excursion must be purchased in advance by clicking here .

And, if you are looking to start a summer tradition or renew one, reserve your tickets for a fabulous 4th of July weekend ride with the Seaport Association this summer!  The boat will be going out on Saturday, July 4, and Sunday, July 5 at 12 noon, and at 3 p.m. and the sunset cruise will depart on both days at 6:30 p.m. For tickets click here.

This year the Seaport cruise will take you on a breathtaking tour of the outer Norwalk Harbor where passengers will get a birds-eye view of this active and fascinating place, from the water! The cruise will then take visitors on a cruise that will take them up close to three historic lighthouses that have protected the harbor for centuries. Have your camera at the ready for unique water views of Green's Ledge and Pecks Ledge, two of only 33 remaining spark plug lighthouses that remain in the United States. The real highlight of this cruise is to see Sheffield Island Lighthouse, Connecticut's iconic maritime treasure up close and from the water. Sheffield Lighthouse has been a beacon to mariners since 1868 and to see it from the water, like mariners of old is a very special experience. 

If you can't make it on this cruise, no worries, the Seaport Association is running two daily cruises and one sunset cruise Wednesday - Sunday through August. All tickets must be purchased online in advance and all passengers must follow the Seaport's COVID protocols and must wear a mask. For the protocols click here.

 

 

Monday, June 22, 2020

Safety Guidelines @ Stamford Museum and Nature Center

The Museum and Nature Center will be open daily from 9 am to  5 pm. and no pre-registration is required. Below, please note the safety regulations.


Planning Your Visit

• Parking and entry will be at the Knobloch Family Farmhouse ONLY at 151 Scofieldtown Road

. • Scan our SM&NC QR Code to view these guidelines and our Site Map.

• Concluding your visit, please exit to the Farmhouse Parking Lot via the paved path behind the Maple Sugar House.

• Meadow tables are spaced apart for your picnicking pleasure, please tidy up after use for other guests. Our Safety Requirements

• Adults & children over the age of 4 must wear a facemask while indoors, on the playground, or anytime when social distancing is not possible.

• We ask that you stop at our Handwashing Stations upon arrival and before touching the animals. • Social Distancing must be strictly adhered to at 6 feet. Avoid Bottlenecks. Be patient and kind

 • Children must be closely supervised at all times. What’s OPEN at this time • Heckscher Farm and Organic Garden, Nature’s Playground (open 6/17), our hiking trails including the Orange Adventure Trail, and the Wheels-In-The-Woods trail, as well as the Bendel Pond Meadow

• On June 17, our Bendel Mansion building and Museum Galleries will open for our wonderful summer exhibition, Art and the Animal, the flagship showcase of work from the Society of Animal Artists. Exhibition on view through September 7, 2020.

 

Friday, June 19, 2020

2020 Seaport Association New Cruises Tales of Pirates, Native Americans, Merchants, and Lighthouses

There is nothing more refreshing than the cool, clean sea breeze flowing through your hair and the sun on your face while taking a cruise through the scenic Norwalk Harbor to a trio of Lighthouses with the Seaport Association. 



 

This fascinating two-hour cruise begins with a leisurely cruise through the historic Norwalk Harbor. Passengers will hear the tale of how Native Americans shared the joy of eating oysters with early English settlers, a Norwalk specialty still enjoyed today. The harbor area has a rich history of commercial shipping with 18th c. sloops sailing to ports as far as the West Indies and, the engaging stories of Norwalk's waters that once teemed with pirates. In the 19th century, prominent manufacturing companies lined the banks of the channel including the Norwalk Lock Company and the Lockwood rolling and slitting mill that once churned out high-grade iron ore. Today, the channel serves water-dependent commerce and recreational marinas.



 

On this cruise, passengers will see two of only thirty-three remaining sparkplug lighthouses still in existence in the United States. Named sparkplug because of their unique shape and water-tight structure made of metal, Peck Ledge built-in 1906, and Greens Ledge constructed in 1902 are maritime gems that passengers will get the rare chance to view, up close. Legend has it that Greens Ledge was named after a pirate that sailed with the infamous Captain Kidd. It is said that he was executed and tied in chains to Greens Ledge as a warning to deter the dastardly deeds of marauding buccaneers. This is just one of many intriguing stories you will hear on this new cruise!



 

The grand finale of the harbor cruise is to pass by historic Sheffield Island Lighthouse, the undisputed icon of Connecticut’s maritime heritage. Located at the southern end of Norwalk’s necklace of islands the current Victorian styled lighthouse was built in 1868 of limestone masonry. It is a classic -- replete with a distinctive octagonal light tower in the gable that offers views of the Manhattan skyline. You will also see a wildlife refuge, cute lightkeepers cottage, and the new wooden pavilion that is available for rent and ideal for special events. 



The real bonus of the new Seaport Association’s cruise is that it gets people out of the house, in the fresh air, and on the water. It is a chance to unwind and re-energize in the scenic beauty of Long Island Sound that extends in every direction.

 

Cruise Schedule and Details

Starting Saturday, June 27 the Seaport Association will run day time cruises at 12 noon and 3 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday through September. Sunset Cruises will be offered Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, at 6 p.m. through September. Weekday cruises begin on July 1, with daytime cruises offered Wednesday at 11:30 a.m., and on Thursday and Friday at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. The boat will not run on Monday and Tuesday.

 

All ticketing will be “contactless, or tickets click here or call 203-838-9444. Adult tickets are $30, children 12 and under $18, and a family pack for four passengers is $75. Sunset cruises are $30 per person. The boat sails promptly as scheduled so it is best to arrive at the dock 30 minutes before departure. The Association cannot accept cash or transaction at the Seaport Dock.

 

This year the Association is limiting the number of passengers to 25 people making social distancing a breeze in their comfortable vessel. All passengers are required to wear safety masks. In keeping with the most current safety and health protocols, the Association will offer hand sanitizer onboard and has established an extensive cleaning and hygiene regiment that goes above and beyond current regulations.

 


Tuesday, June 16, 2020

“Clambakes To Go” for Fathers Day!

The fun and novel “Clambakes To Go” are selling quickly as Father's Day approaches.  These clambakes come in one pot to conveniently cook at home and are only available for pick-up on Sunday, June 21st which is Father's Day.  Orders can only be made online at www.Chowdafest.org by Friday, June 19th at 11pm.  Unfortunately, only orders made online by this date can be accepted.



Each clambake includes a live, banded 1.5 lb lobster, clams, mussels, sausage, potatoes, and corn on the cob plus it comes all in one pot that the customer keeps and cooks in.  Cooking is both easy and quick as you just add water, beer, or wine to each pot which takes between just 20 and 40 minutes depending on how many clambakes are in each pot.

 

“Sales have been brisk as Father's Day draws closer,” said Jim Keenan, Chief Experience Officer of Chowdafest who is organizing the effort.  “We have no idea what the demand will be so we had to limit these clambakes.  Hopefully, people will order early before we run out” he added.  Meals are $42 each.

 

“Clambakes To Go” can only be picked up in Westport on Sunday, June 21st at pick-up times chosen by the customer online between Noon and 4pm.  Order tickets will be scanned in and then delivered to your car in line.  For pick-up details, please visit www.chowdafest.org.. 



 

To make this “curbside clambake” more special for the occasion, the clambakes will include complimentary beer from Sam Adams to both cooks with and toast your Dad, seltzer-ade from Polar Beverages, butter from Cabot's Creamery, plus lobster bibs, wet naps and a unique lobster tool compliments of Aitoro Appliances and Knot Norm's Catering.  All are available with each pot while supplies last and the recipient must be over 21 with ID to accept the beer.

 

For additional information about this Taste of Summer effort by Chowdafest please visit  www.ClamBakeToGo.com or visit www.Chowdafest.org.

 

The Taste of Summer is sponsored by Aitoro Appliances, Cabot Creamery, CCO Habitats, Friends of Sherwood Island, Knot Norm's, Polar Beverages, Sam Adams and The Westport Hub.

 

 

Friday, June 12, 2020

Stamford Museum and Nature Center Opens June 17

The Stamford Museum and Nature Center has planned to reopen on June 17, 2020. They have noted that the facility will be open to all visitors and no pr-registration is necessary. 



In addition to all of the outdoor activities including Nature's Playground the Bendel Mansion building and Museum Galleries will also reopen for the new summer exhibit called Art and the Animal. This is the flagship exhibition of The Society of Animal Artists, which is regarded worldwide as the most prestigious artist membership organization dedicated to the theme of animals in art. A juried exhibit for art and animal lovers alike, visitors will get a chance to view more than 50 diverse artworks combining natural history and fine art in various styles and ranging in medium from oils, and watercolors, to exquisite pencil and ink works, paper cutouts and sculpture.

The Society’s 59th Annual Exhibition premiered at The Briscoe Western Art Museum in San Antonio.  The mission of The Society of Animal Artists is to promote excellence in the portrayal of animals, domestic and/or wild, in art. The Society was founded in 1960 and over the past 60 years, works created by members of The Society of Animal Artists have established new standards of artistic preeminence in fine art. ​Art and the Animal ​ Annual Exhibits and Touring Exhibitions have been featured at more than 60 venues including museums and zoos, and art, cultural and science centers throughout North America.  

The Gallery will allow a maximum of 15 gallery guests at a time to ensure social distancing. For complete regulations related to COVID_19 click here.

Friday, June 5, 2020

Institute for American Indian Studies Modified Summer Camp June 26-August 7, 2020

We all know that this summer will be different. We also know that it is important for children to get out of the house and be engaged socially, mentally, and safely. With that in mind, the Institute for American Indian Studies located on 38 Curtis Road in Washington, Connecticut announced that they are opening a modified summer camp program of weekly themed outdoor fun and education that follows strict state guidelines. The Summer Camp is available one week at a time, Monday- Friday, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., from June 26 through August 7. The programs are geared for children ages 6-13. “We decided to offer our camp programs because we feel it can be a gateway back to normalcy for children. We expect these experiences will help our young campers face new challenges with resilience,” Chris Combs, Executive Director said.



There are so many benefits to sending children to summer camp, especially this summer. It gives children the chance to develop confidence and get unplugged; it allows them to make new friends, experience the great outdoors, and to explore new interests while learning at the same time. “This year, parents can definitely expect to see safety as the first and foremost focus at our camp, Chris Combs, Executive Director said. “ For all of our staff, the health and safety of our campers is paramount. All camp activities will be held outdoors and there will be regular sanitizing, social distancing, and smaller group activities as well as staggered arrivals and pick-ups, all in accordance with guidance issued by various state and federal agencies,” Combs continued. For more information, registration and protocols click here 



Camp Director Gabriel Benjamin and Assistant Camp Director Susan Scherf have developed a range of exciting activities and projects that follow current health guidelines. Each week, campers will join experienced educators on a journey through one of several themes that relate to the museum's core mission, such as ecology, archaeology, and traditional skills. While hiking in the woods, playing games, and creating crafts, campers will practice survival skills, teamwork, and problem-solving as they develop confidence while experiencing the great outdoors, and making new friends. Besides the memories that will last a lifetime, campers will learn valuable skills and connect with a culture that has more than 10,000 years of history in this area.



Summer Camp Themes
Weekly camps will have different experiences. On June 29- July 3 the theme is “Wonderful Wildlife” and will include exploring the forests and rivers of the Eastern Woodlands. The camp running from July 6- July 10 will focus on the gifts of the natural world and how Native Americans used their understanding of the natural world to thrive for thousands of years right here in Connecticut.

On July 13 to July 17, children will learn outdoor survival skills similar to those used for centuries by Native Americans. And, if your children love science and technology sign them up for the week of July 20-24 to learn how people of the past figured out creative ways to move around, construct shelter, find food, and make tools."

For budding archeologists and kids that are intrigued by puzzles, don’t miss the July 27 – July 31 camp where they will learn how to dig and discover.

The last camp of our 2020 summer season, from August 3-7 is for kids that like a challenge – and don’t they all! If your kids want to be amazed, sign them up, and challenge them to put their skills to test! They will come away enriched and confident.  



About The Institute for American Indian StudiesLocated on 15 acres of woodland acres the Institute For American Indian Studies preserves and educates through archeology, research, exhibitions, and programs. They have the 16th c. Algonquian Village, Award-Winning Wigwam Escape, and a museum with temporary and permanent displays of authentic artifacts from prehistory to the present that allows visitors to foster a new understanding of the world and the history and culture of Native Americans. The Institute for American Indian Studies is located on 38 Curtis Road, Washington, CT.

Wednesday, June 3, 2020

Wilton's Farmer's Market Opens June 3, 2020

The Wilton Historical Society located on 224 Danbury Road in Wilton will be holding its Farmer's Market every Wednesday from 12 noon to 5 pm starting in June. The Wilton Farmers Market will run through October 28, 2020.



The market is comprised of local farmers and artisans who come together and provide shoppers a venue to purchase the finest locally sourced products. Featured are local Connecticut farmers offering seasonal and organic produce, fresh baked goods and pastries, food trucks with a selection of lunch items, local artists and crafters featuring their original and one of a kind art pieces, craft breweries for non-alcoholic beverages and premium imported Italian goods direct from Italy to name a few.
With the onset of COVID-19, they will be implementing new guidelines for the 2020 season. The goal is to provide a safe market environment while limiting potential exposure to consumers, food, volunteers, vendors, and market manager. The operating guidelines are as follows:
  • They will limit the number of customers within the market at one time. Each vendor is allowed one shopper per space at a given time.
  • The recommended social distancing protocols of six (6) feet of separation between individuals will be applied by placing markers six (6) feet apart in front of vendors and around the market where necessary.
  • Foot traffic will be one-way. A designated entrance for shoppers will be staffed to implement proper headcount within the market during hours of operation.
  • All shoppers MUST wear a cloth face covering at the market. We encourage families to limit the number of people coming to the market to the primary buyer only.
  • Per Executive Order 7S, all market managers, staff/volunteers, and vendors must wear gloves and face masks at all times if they’re interacting with customers and/or handling products.
  • If a customer brings a reusable bag, vendors are not required to handle the bag or fill the bag.
  • Each vendor will wipe down the EBT/credit card terminal with an approved disinfectant after each use.
  • Each vendor will have their own hand sanitizing station available.
  • Each vendor is responsible for intermittently wiping down and disinfecting their work area and high touch points on the shopper's side of their tables.
  • Picnic tables will be off-limits to shoppers for dining purposes.
  • We HIGHLY recommend pre-ordering with vendors that are offering online orders. A designated “pick up only” table by the pedestrian entrance of the market will be available for quick accesses.

Friday, May 29, 2020

SCCA NEW ENGLAND REGIONALS AT LIME ROCK PARK POSTPONED UNTIL 2021

The Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) and Lime Rock Park have agreed to postpone SCCA’s New England Regionals originally scheduled for June 12-13, 2020. The amateur racing event is rescheduled for 2021 with a pending date of June 11-12, 2021. 


Given the current guidelines and associated limitations regarding public events of this type, Lime Rock Park and series officials have agreed that it is in the best interest for all involved to postpone the event until next year. Current ticket purchases will be valid for the 2021 event date.

Please sign up to receive the latest news and information from Lime Rock Park by visiting www.limerock.com/jointhefanclub. Updated announcements will also be made on www.limerock.com and on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/limerockpark. For additional questions, Lime Rock staff can be reached by emailing info@limerock.com or by calling (860) 435-5000.

Friday, May 22, 2020

Institute for American Indian Studies Opens Outside Museum

The Institute for American Indian Studies located on 38 Curtis Road in Washington Connecticut has opened a redeveloped Outside Museum. This Outside Museum experience is included in admission.  The staff and education directors have developed safe and educational opportunities for visitors to experience on their grounds on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.


Guests are invited to visit the rebuilt 16th-century replica Algonkian Village and to learn about Native American community life prior to European contact. A highlight of the Village is the opportunity is to learn about food sustainability and natural healing methods in the traditional Three Sisters and Medicinal Plant Gardens.  There will also be games to enjoy as well as educational scavenger hunts along the Institute's woodland trails. And, for those interested in the science of archeology don't miss the chance to explore the outdoor Archaeology Pavilion that demonstrates how museums like the Institute can learn from the past.


As the Institute welcomes visitors back to their Outside Museum and encourages guests to engage with the more than 10,000 years of Native American history, the safety of visitors, members and staff is a priority. Please visit the Institute for American Indian Studies website for the most up-to-date information on their safety policies.  

About The Institute for American Indian Studies

Located on 15 acres of woodland acres the Institute For American Indian Studies preserves and educates through archeology, research, exhibitions, and programs. They have the 16th c. Algonquian Village, Award-Winning Wigwam Escape, and a museum with temporary and permanent displays of authentic artifacts from prehistory to the present that allows visitors to foster a new understanding of the world and the history and culture of Native Americans. The Institute for American Indian Studies is located on 38 Curtis Road, Washington, CT.

Thursday, May 21, 2020

Norwalk Oyster Festival cancelled due to COVID-19 concerns

Due to ongoing COVID-19 concerns, the Norwalk Seaport Association (NSA) is canceling the 43rd annual Norwalk Oyster Festival, previously scheduled for September 11-13, 2020.  Prioritizing the health and safety of everyone involved, the decision comes after careful deliberation between the NSA Board of Trustees, and Festival Exhibitors.



“We are disappointed that we’re unable to hold this highly anticipated event,” said NSA President Mike Reilly.  “But, based on the information we have today, we know it’s the right decision to make.” With that said, Reilly continued, “The Norwalk Oyster Festival raises more than $100,000 that contributes to the maintenance and restoration of the historic Sheffield Island Lighthouse and to support our educational programs. Without this festival taking place in 2020, we will be facing a challenging year. We are hoping for the continued support of all the friends of the Seaport and the Norwalk Oyster Festival to help us continue with our mission.”



“From Seaport leadership and regional partners like the long time event sponsor, First County Bank, to the artists, performers, vendors, and volunteers who work so tirelessly to stage the Norwalk Oyster Festival each year,” Mike continued, “We thank everyone for standing with us in making this difficult call. We are counting the days to restaging the festival and celebrating our maritime heritage together again in 2021.”


 The NSA team is exploring options to coordinate an online experience or a smaller event to showcase this historic, beloved event – one of the most popular in Connecticut and the Northeast. In the interim, we urge everyone to follow federal, state, and local COVID-19 mitigation advice.



To keep updated on our planned activities, please follow our Facebook Page,
email us at
info@seaport.org or visit us at www.seaport.org

Wednesday, May 20, 2020

Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo to Reopen June 1, 2020

Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo will reopen June 1, 2020. They are implementing a new online ticketing system to welcome everyone back safely and efficiently. The Zoo will be splitting the day into two sessions allowing for up to 500 guests per session.



They will open the Zoo at 9am and will close at noon for cleaning. We will then re-open at 1pm and close at 4pm.  They will also be requiring all guests to wear a mask. And the more creative the better!

They have created a one-way loop around the Zoo so guests can explore while social distancing. All buildings will be closed to the public; however, guests will be able to pre-order food online from the café and pick it up from our take-out window. Also, the gift shop will be open for online purchases which will be made available for pick up at gift shop kiosk.  


 
Ticket prices will be reduced from $16 to $15 for an adult and from $13 to $10 for a child and a senior and as always children under 3 are free.  They will not be able to accept coupons or allow for any partner discount at this time. We also will not be able to rent wheelchairs or strollers.
 
As they welcome visitors back under these new circumstances, they will appreciate your patience as they look to be able to provide you the best Zoo experience in the safest manner possible.


 
Please continue to check their website www.beardsleyzoo.org and their Facebook page for the most up-to-date information. 

Tuesday, May 12, 2020

Three Ways to Display Your Travel Memories

Do you love collecting objects throughout your trip and, then returning home wonder what on earth to do with all the things you have accumulated? We have all faced that dilemma at one time or another. Rather than tossing these precious items out or stashing them in a box that just adds to the clutter why not organize them creatively? The stay at home order is a good time to do this and we have three creative ways for you to showcase your keepsakes.



Vacation Memory Jar
If you have scooped up powder white or black sand from an exotic beach or the desert, collected shells from far away islands, or collected lava rocks and other interesting natural treasures, why not store them in a mason jar or artfully shaped vase. Before filling your mason jar with your treasures you can laminate a photo of the destination and attach it to the inside of the jar.  After the photo is firmly attached, fill your vacation memory jar with layers of sand, shells, rocks, flowers, and other items from your trip.  A vacation memory jar can be placed on a shelf or in a bookcase as a decorative and meaningful memento.



ShadowBoxes
We like the idea of a shadowbox because the space is so flexible. There are so many places to purchase shadowboxes online and if you are handy they are pretty easy to make. Include those items that caught your eye along the way, add your impression of the destination on the back of a postcard, and jot down a poem or song lyrics that remind you of your trip.  It is important to have a smattering of three dimensional and flat objects to make the shadowbox interesting.  Don't forget to have colorful pens, markers, and glitter on hand, often they add to the final product. 

Most shadowboxes are deep enough to arrange a variety of your favorite trip memorabilia from bulky items to slimmer paper keepsakes like currency, maps, plastic room keys, tickets, photos, brochures, and menus that you have saved. It is fun to organize these items in a colorful and meaningful collage. Shadowboxes look great hung on a wall or placed on a shelf.  The shadowbox by Frame YI and Love-Kankei are highly recommended on Amazon.


Scrapbooking 
A time tested tried and true way to document your travels is by scrapbooking. There is something nostalgic about preserving memories this way. The most common scrapbook size is 12x12 that fits four to six photos per page. Make sure you have some plastic page protectors if you are using a three-ring binder, a sharpie for writing bold titles, and a pen for more detailed captions. Some of the pages should have a plastic pocket where you can include your bulkier finds and trinkets. 

It is always important to consider the layout for each page. Think about how you want to organize them...by day or by attraction. Play around with the placement before you attach the images and other items. After you are happy with your layout it is time to layer and add extra elements especially if you have left space between the photos to write down certain memories or add postcards and ticket stubs.


Whatever method you choose to save your travel memories we hope that these ideas have inspired you, not only to look back on the good times you have had but to all the journeys that await you with Tours of Distinction based in Connecticut.

Monday, May 11, 2020

Summer Camp @ Bartlett Arboretum in Stamford

Registration is still open for the Bartlett's 2020 Summer Immersion Experiences! Due to COVID-19, camp groups will be limited in number this summer. Please consider signing up soon! We will be following all cleaning and check-in protocols mandated by the State of CT Office of Early Childhood.


Bartlett camp programs offer immersion into the natural world through the exploration of the Arboretum's 93 acres of forest and gardens. Programming is hands-on, and incorporates STEAM concepts (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) in age-appropriate contexts. In addition to week-specific programming, each camp segment allows time for games and relaxation appropriate to the age level. Our aim is to make nature inviting and engagement fun. Please note that due to the state's COVID reopening timelines, Week 1 has been canceled.
The camp is open to students entering Kindergarten-entering 5th Grade. Membership discounts are available - consider joining as a family member for $75/year to save to take advantage of our best camp prices and additional discounts on other Bartlett programs and events!  Join here!
Visit our website to learn more about each weekly camp experience and to sign up!


Saturday, May 9, 2020

Hiking @ Great Mountain Forest -One of CT's Oldest Forests

The Great Mountain Forest (GMF) encompasses more than 6,000 acres of contiguous forestland in the towns of Norfolk and Canaan, Connecticut. GMF is owned and managed by The Great Mountain Forest Corporation, a not-for-profit 501 © 3 private operating foundation. They strive to promote the working forest as a renewable resource, a habitat for wildlife, and an outdoor classroom for education. They have a network of trails and roads open to the public, daily during daylight hours.

Photo Credit GMF

As a working forest, scientists carry out tomographic scans on trees, specifically the American beech, sugar maple, and yellow birch to measure the rate of decay. An Experiment Station has also been set up that surveys invasive insects and evaluates their impact. A Chestnut orchard has been established and has established a backcross breeding program in order to breed an American Chestnut that is highly resistant to the chestnut blight and is native to Connecticut. Being a unique old-growth coniferous forest, one of the few in the state, birds are also monitored for productivity and survivorship. The University of Connecticut has also set up a program to monitor bears and moose.

Photo Credit GMF

The forest trails at Great Mountain Forest are currently open to the public during daylight hours. They ask that hikers follow the CDC guidelines by keeping at least six feet of distance between people on the trails. For a map of the trails and roads, please click here. The forest supports an abundance of diverse wildlife from resident whitetail deer to moose, black bears, and turkeys, waterfowl, and many birds. All visitors must sign in and out at one of the visitor registers by the gated trails located on Windrow Road in Norfolk and on Canaan Mountain Road in Cannan. Pedestrian use is limited to main woods roads and designated trails. Bicycle use is limited specially designated bicycle trails. Leashed dogs are permitted on trails but horses are strictly prohibited.

Tuesday, May 5, 2020

Summer Internship offered @ Institute for American Indian Studies for Washington CT Residents

​Are you a Washington resident in college or graduating high school student who wants to support a local non-profit while building your resume and getting paid for it?

You can gain a variety of work experience this summer helping on projects at The Institute for American Indian Studies​, thanks to the generous financial support of the Washington Scholarship Foundation.
The selected student can earn $2,000 working 20 hours/week while gaining real-world work experience in areas such as sustainable gardening and archaeological digs, as well as educational events, marketing, and research.
This is an excellent opportunity for a Washington high school or college student to gain a deeper understanding of environmental issues, the historical facets of Native peoples and culture, and the operations of non-profit and museum-related organizations.
The Trustees and Staff at The Institute for American Indian Studies want to thank the Washington Scholarship Foundation for funding this intern opportunity to help local students learn more about our organization’s mission.
For further information or to apply for this internship, contact Chris Combs, Executive Director, at the Institute for American Indian Studies:
Institute for American Indian Studies
Phone:  860-868-0518