The Erwin and Naomi Goldstein Preserve stands out among Avalonia’s recent acquisitions!

With the excitement of over a thousand acres of newly conserved land on the immediate horizon, one might forgive Avalonia’s stewardship team for not sharing more about its recently acquired Erwin and Naomi  Goldstein Preserve in Griswold.  There is, however, more conservation and recreational potential packed into this 25.6 acre preserve than can be ignored!

Of special note is a prominent oak upland, flanked by mature stands of pine and hemlock to the east.  These evergreens follow the contours of steep kettle holes, eventually dropping down to the edge of the beautiful Pachaug River. The preserve contains what is commonly referred to as a “quaking bog”, a wetland characterized by, among other things, acidic conditions, low nutrients, a floating mat of peat/sedge/sphagnum moss, and specialized plants and animals. Technically, this is what is called a fen since the connected Pachaug The River serves as its water source.  Fens are recognized as a Critical Habitat by the State of Connecticut and we embrace our stewardship responsibility for this special place.   

The management plan for the preserve will focus on ways to keep this and other habitats healthy, including a plan for dealing with invasive plants that have become established in various places.  A short loop trail is being considered and the preserve is in close proximity to the Connecticut Blue Trail.  It also has more than a third of a mile of shoreline with opportunities for accessing the property by way of kayak, canoe, or other small craft.  Stay tuned to learn more about our plans for the preserve!