Grassland: Hidden Sites and Treasures

Healthy grassland habitats in Connecticut are few and far between. It’s no surprise that many of the bird species that are listed as special concern, threatened, or endangered in our state are dependent on these vital habitats. In this presentation from Woodcock Nature Center and the Ridgefield Conservation Commission, we will discover how these habitats went from being fairly common to increasingly rare, learn about the beautiful and unique wildlife that inhabits grasslands, and learn what we can do to promote the restoration and proper management of these habitats.

Woodcock and the RCC have been collaborating to lead guided walks at local preserves, and an upcoming walk on June 1st will offer a chance to explore a property recently acquired by the Ridgefield Conservation Commission; which includes a promising tract of habitat which may be suitable for grassland dependent species!

Tommy McCarthy is an Environmental Educator at Woodcock Nature Center. He has a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Science from Evergreen State College in Washington State. Ridgefield’s beautiful nature preserves played a large role in the development of Tommy’s interests in science and the environment, and he is an enthusiast when it comes to exploring nature and watching wildlife.

Jean Linville  is a visual artist, educator, writer and native plant farmer at The Hickories Organic Farm in Ridgefield, CT. In all of her endeavors, she aims to raise people's awareness and appreciation of their local ecosystems and thereby encourage participation in ecological restoration projects. For over 33 years, Jean was a visual arts educator in New York State. She has lived in Ridgefield since 2007.

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