A Miyawaki Forest, or "micro" forest, will be planted in Bridgeport by the Aspetuck Land Trust with the assistance of an Urban Forest Equity Grant from DEEP Forestry Division and the U.S.D.A. Forest Service. This technique is designed to increase the number of diverse tree species in urban spaces. More information on Miyawaki-style Forests. DEEP's Urban & Community Forestry Program offers grants for planting and maintaining community trees. More information on Urban Forestry grants. 

Spring wildfire season is here. 

1. Be Informed: Know the daily wildfire risk. Follow state and municipal recommendations for wildfire risk reduction during high-to-extreme fire danger days and red flag warning days. 

2. Be Fire Savvy: Most wildfires are caused by people. On high-to-extreme risk days, reduce your risk of starting a fire by minimizing and fully extinguishing open flames, using a fire-safe container for ashes, disposing of cigarettes in appropriate containers, and taking extra precautions to avoid sparks near dry grass and leaves while using lawnmowers, chainsaws, and other machinery.   

3. Be Prepared: To prepare your home for a possible wildfire, clear at least 30 feet of leaves, brush, and dead vegetation around your home. Trim branches at least 10 feet away from roofs and chimneys. 

Video: 100th Anniversary of Peoples State Forest

This year marks the 100th Anniversary of Peoples State Forest. Peoples State Forest is located primarily in the Town of Barkhamsted. The forest was established in 1924 through the efforts of the Connecticut Forest & Park Association and individuals who purchased land and gave it to the people of Connecticut. The forest contains towering white pines, a 14-mile network of hiking trails, the Barkhamsted Lighthouse Native American historic site, scenic vistas, the historic Squire’s Tavern, and a nature museum. The forest is managed for saw-timber, firewood production, wildlife habitat, and recreation. 

New BMP App Available! 

The State of Connecticut has determined Best Management Practices (BMPs) for Foresters, Loggers, and other professionals to use as guidelines to protect waterways and sensitive ecosystems during forest management projects. The Division of Forestry has created an easy-to-use app to help professionals determine recommended BMP practices and estimate cost. The app includes helpful tools such as a soil type map and a clinometer to determine site-specific guidelines based on slope. 

Educational Opportunities for Woodland Owners 

Connecticut Master Woodland Manager Program, hosted by the Connecticut Forest & Park Association and made possible by a grant from the U.S.D.A. Forest Service. Through a partnership with DEEP, UConn, Yale University, Audubon Connecticut, and the CT Land Conservation Council, the year-long program begins in September. Learn from Connecticut’s top forestry and wildlife professionals and join a community of woodland supporters!

Woodland Academy: Forest Resilience - Management Strategies and Funding, May 21, 9:00 am-4:00 pm, Falls Village, CT. Hosted by Great Mountain Forest with support from DEEP, New England Forestry Foundation, CT Land Conservation Council, and USDA NRCS.