Connecticut Coverts Cooperators

In the United States, 36 percent of forestland is privately owned by families or individuals. In southern New England this percentage rises to 74 percent—the majority of which is in parcels under 50 acres. Most woodland owners own their land because they value it as forest and aim to be good stewards. Unfortunately, most do not engage in activities to maintain or improve the health of their land.

Last September I attended the Coverts Program in Great Mountain Forest, a program designed to teach forest owners how good stewardship can improve the health and productivity of the forest.

Over three days we attended lectures and toured forest plots. We learned the history of Connecticut forests, and how deforestation from farming and the charcoal industry and subsequent regeneration have resulted in similarly aged forest stands. But most wildlife require more diverse forests than what are currently available. Great Mountain Forest has been actively managed as a working forest since 1909, and we visited forest plots managed at different times for different purposes, such as forest stand improvement and the creation of  wildlife habitat.Most importantly, we learned about the professionals and the resources available to help landowners better manage their forests.

The Coverts Program inspired me to become an engaged forest steward. Because of it, I applied for assistance from the Natural Resources Conservation Service. Just last week my application was approved, and now I have funding to work with a forester to develop and implement a forest management plan. The next session of this program takes place in Great Mountain Forest from Thursday, Sept. 12, to Sunday, Sept. 15, in Great Mountain Forest. You can find more information at https://www.ctwoodlands.org/environmental-education/connecticut-coverts-cooperators.

—Eliza Little

Calling All Lawyers!

I propose to start a volunteer lawyers group to offer pro bono legal assistance in Norfolk.

The group is open to anyone with a law degree. You can be admitted to the bar in any jurisdiction, or not admitted anywhere. Practicing, nonpracticing, semiretired, retired, full-time residents, weekenders and seasonal residents are all welcome. You’re also welcome if your home is outside Norfolk and you’re willing to participate.

The group can be a clearinghouse for legal assistance requests and referrals, matching need with talent and availability. Town committees, religious, cultural or service organizations may need advice. We can work out the details collaboratively.

The proposed group is not intended to compete with local lawyers, but rather to add to Norfolk’s legal resources.

Please show your interest by emailing norfolkprobono@gmail.com with your name, contact information and a description of your experience. Or call my cell (914) 844-3744.

After collecting responses, I will host a meeting to discuss the project. All ideas are welcome. Even if you don’t think you will volunteer for anything, please come to socialize and contribute to the discussion.

—Jonathan Sanoff