|
Our mission: "To promote the development, conservation, supervision, and regulation of natural resources, including water resources within the Town of Killingly and provide the methodology for protection and maintenance of these resources." The Conservation Commission is working hard to protect the natural resources in town and to promote the parks and open space that are open for residents of the region to enjoy. Here are a few of the activities we are involved in: |
|
Get Outside & Walk Walk with us every second Sunday of the month, spring through fall |
 |
Environmental Award presented to Josephine Stenback At the Town Council meeting Feb 12, 2013 Killingly Conservation Commission's 11th annual Environmental Award was presented to Josephine Stenback for her commitment to presevation of open space for future generations. Josie donated 36 acres on Yosemite Valley Road to the Wyndham Land Trust for permanent protection from development. "I did it because I wanted to, not for recognition," she said. Michael Green, a board member of the Wyndham Land Trust and a resident of Killingly, worked closely with her in the process of legally setting aside her land as protected open space. Yosemite Valley Road is a dirt road in the northeast corner of town, and offers a scenic drive on one of the back roads of Killingly. |
 |
Killingly Grown! The Conservation Commission is a strong supporter of local agriculture. Click here to read the Agvocate Program's new brocure: "Killingy Grown - A guide to the agricultural products and services in Killingly."
|
 |
Value of Agriculture and Good Neighbor Brochures from the Agvovate Program Click on the images to view the brochures. |
|
CAT HOLLOW RIBBON CUTTING A ceremony at Cat Hollow Park marked development accomplishments by volunteers and the opening of a new picnic grove designed and built as an Eagle Scout project. About 40 people gathered, including members of Killingly’s Conservation, Recreation Commissions and Town Council, to hear Introductory remarks by Robert Young, Town Council Chair, David Griffiths, probate judge, Tom Dooley, Director of Recreation Dept , and Donna Bronwell, Chair of Killingly Conservation Commission and volunteer coordinator for Cat Hollow Park. The property along Cat Hollow Road and the Whetstone Brook contains two scenic dams and two historic mill sites. The property was owned for 35 years by Bob Lucas, a local artist, who lived in one of the old mills and tended the many unique plantings. When the property became available in early 2000, Brad Gauthier and Ed Ledogar, advocated for the town to retain the Cat Hollow property, rather than selling it. Dave Griffiths recognized these two town citizens them for their vision and commitment. Over the years the area became very overgrown with brush, trees and vines. Tom Dooley, Director of Parks and Recreation, commended Donna Bronwell, for her dedication in coordinating volunteer work in accomplishing many of the goals of the 2006 development plan. Work has been completed almost exclusively by volunteer efforts. Appreciation was expressed by Donna Bronwell to:
Come to the Dog Hill Road entrance to view the new kiosk containing a map, historical photos, thanks to volunteers, and a list of things to do at the park. Cat Hollow Park is located in the Dayville section of Killingly, with entrances on Dog Hill Road and Valley Road. Enjoy another gem in “undiscovered Killingly”! More information about Cat Hollow is available here. |
|
Protecting the reservoirs in East Killingly The Killingly Conservation Commission is asking for your support in obtaining a unique resource that provides clean water, wildlife habitat, and recreation in eastern Connecticut. In a wonderful turn of events, a corporation has offered to donate the 561 acres that make up five reservoirs at the headwaters of the Whetstone Brook. This gift to the citizens of Connecticut is valued at more than $1.25 million, but the clean water, wildlife habitat, and recreation are priceless. If this donation is accepted, the reservoirs could support recreation such as fishing, boating, and bird watching. The brochure and map provide details about the reservoirs and land being offered to the State of Connecticut. The photographs provide some idea of the scenic vistas and natural beauty in this area. This opportunity will never occur again, so we are asking for you immediate help in securing this donation for today and future generations. What can you do to help? The brochure contains the names, addresses, and email addresses of your State Representatives, officials in the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection, and staff in the Town of Killingly. The corporation has placed a time limit on this opportunity, so we must ask the state for immediate action on this matter. Please express your support as soon as possible. If you would like to have a personal tour of the reservoirs, please email Linda Walden in the Town of Killingly. Members of the Killingly Conservation Commission and/or staff members of the Town of Killingly would be happy to show you one of the most beautiful areas in eastern Connecticut. |
|
Protecting town-owned properties The Killingly Conservation Commission recently identified town-owned properties that they felt ought to be protected from future development through a conservation easment. The commission determined that the properties had either environmental or historical value and should be protected for future generations to enjoy. The properties were already owned by the town, and there was no cost to the town to protect them. The State of Connecticut has a goal of protecting 21% of the state in protected open-space. The properties identified by the commission will increase Killingly's open space from 6% to 8%. Phase I was approved by the town council in February of 2009; Phase II was approved in February of 2010. The following Powerpoint presentations provide details on each of the protected parcels: |
|
