July 2026 Newsletter

Surviving the 3 H’s

As we swelter through the summer’s first heat wave, the long-range forecast appears to be more of the same: abnormally Hazy, Hot, Humid. Fortunately, we have options to chill out with a cool dip in the Shepaug River, a walk through the naturally air-conditioned Tunnel in Steep Rock Preserve or relaxing under the shade of a beautiful oak with an icy beverage. These options aren’t available to hundreds of plant and animal species that call our preserves home–many of which are acutely sensitive to even small changes in normal temperature and precipitation. At Steep Rock, we witness first-hand the insidious impacts of a rapidly changing climate on our forests and wildlife—from droughts to fires, volatile storms to invasive species. In response, we’re implementing multi-level actions to enhance ecological resiliency. With your donation, you are partnering in our efforts to employ natural climate solutions in our preserves. We are restoring river and streambanks to reduce flooding, enhancing cold-water refuges in the Shepaug to protect fish (see photo), securing critically important wildlife habitats, tackling invasive threats, and constructing sustainable trails that enhance your hiking experience while protecting local ecology. Know that your investment in Steep Rock matters and enables us to protect what you love, regardless what the weather brings. Stay cool!

See you on the trails,
Brian Hagenbuch, Ph.D.
Executive Director

Steep Rock Awarded Grant to Protect Farmland

We are thrilled to announce that Steep Rock Association was awarded a $790,400 grant from the CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) Open Space and Watershed Land Acquisition Program (OSWA). The grant will assist in the purchase of 40 acres of prime agricultural farmland on Popple Swamp Road, which is considered some of the most conservation worthy parcels remaining in Washington to preserve local agriculture and production of goods. The mosaic of grassland, meadow, shrubland, and woodland with wetlands and a cold-water stream are extremely significant to wildlife . We are grateful to DEEP for their support of open space preservation in the state.

Steep Rock Summit Now Open

The Steep Rock Summit reopened on Wednesday, July 8th with new and improved approaches on the Steep Rock Centennial Loop – the latest product of our Sustainable Trails Initiative. Rehabilitation included extensive drainage improvements, stone step installations, and a rerouted section of trail. Thank you for respecting the trail closure as we worked to protect sensitive habitats and wildlife this spring. Happy hiking and summit ascending!

Centennial Loop – Our Latest Sustainable Trails Project

One of Steep Rock Preserve’s most popular hikes just got a major upgrade. After months of work, the Steep Rock Centennial Loop has reopened with sustainably designed improvements that protect the landscape while making the climb to the summit safer and more enjoyable. See what’s new—and why these changes matter.

Explore Our New StoryWalk at Macricostas Preserve

Thanks to Pierce Johnson and members of Scouting America Troop 65, who replaced the StoryWalk display stands as part of an Eagle Scout project, visitors can once again enjoy this beloved family activity.  This summer’s featured book is Fairy Walk by Gaia Cornwall, an enchanting story that encourages children to explore the woods, spark their imaginations, and discover the magic of the natural world. The StoryWalk is a collaboration between Steep Rock Association, Gunn Memorial Library, and Washington Supply, with a new nature-themed story featured each season. >more