Steep Rock recognizes invasive plants and animals as some of the most significant threats to the well-being of our protected natural and agricultural lands. In August, our volunteer work party tackled a stand of Japanese barberry in Steep Rock preserve. A non-native ornamental that is...
https://vimeo.com/852725022?share=copyOn June 27th, we received a call from a hiker in Hidden Valley Preserve that trees were down on some trails, and she was “seeing sky where I usually see trees!”Upon investigation, we discovered that a microburst from the previous day’s thunderstorms had snapped off or...
In April, volunteers from Steep Rock embarked on an exciting project: constructing a new half-mile trail at Hillside Farm, the latest addition to West Mountain Preserve. Creating a sturdy hiking trail requires a long-term commitment, attention to many details, and a team effort. Let’s delve...
Grab your rubber boots and polarized glasses. It’s not too late to explore a vernal pool near you.Vernal pools are woodland depressions that hold water in Spring and then typically dry throughout Summer. Several amphibians are dependent on the temporarily inundated environment for breeding and...
July is a fascinatingly wild time of year. Life histories of organisms spanning all taxonomic kingdoms converge, forming a bustling and bursting environment that beckons for natural study. Learn about biodiversity in the preserves and the interconnections that shape natural communities through our experiential “Notes...
The Midwinter Eagle Survey is a research project designed to monitor the status and detect trends of wintering eagle populations in the United States over time. Here in Connecticut, Steep Rock Association has coordinated a consistent effort to survey the entire Shepaug River with the...
The adage “a picture is worth a thousand words” rings true for Steep Rock Association. Photography is an incredible tool for performing scientific research, telling the story of our conservation impact, and highlighting the importance of open space. This year, we aim to increase photographic...
In recognition of a rapidly shifting climate and increasingly pronounced weather events, Steep Rock Association (SRA) has proactively managed our preserves to enhance their climate resilience – the ability to resist and recover from climate-related disruptions. The ecology of rivers and streams are particularly vulnerable, not...
by: Rory Larson, Conservation Science Manager A firmly held tenet of our management approach is that the public's enjoyment of the preserves derives directly from their natural character and diversity of flora and fauna. Lucky for you, there is no better time than now to experience...