Norfolk Land Trust Receives Generous Grant to Protect Borden Woods

By Kelly Kandra Hughes 

Thanks to generous grants from several agencies and organizations dedicated to preserving natural landscapes and fostering community engagement in conservation, the Norfolk Land Trust (NLT) has expanded its holdings to protect and preserve natural local resources with acquisitions of two new properties now named the Borden Woods and Little Switzerland. The State of Connecticut Open Space and Watershed Land Acquisition program and Federal Highlands Act funding, the John T. and Jane A. Wiederhold Foundation, The Nature Conservancy’s Resilient & Connected Appalachians grant program, the Connecticut Land Conservation Council’s Transaction Assistance program, and the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, collectively, granted over $400,000 to assist the Norfolk Land Trust in acquiring this land.   

The acquisition of Borden Woods and Little Switzerland represents a significant achievement for the Norfolk Land Trust. These parcels of land are especially beneficial to the Land Trust’s mission in that they fill in gaps and add land to the Barbour Woods. They also protect headwaters for the Blackberry River and preserve important habitat for animals and plants, including 15 rare state-listed species documented at the property, and they also preserve a beloved scenic spot. 

According to Norfolk Land Trust Board Member Shelley Harms, the acquisition of  Borden Woods, specifically, has been a priority for the NLT for its entire 40-year history, with many attempts to acquire it in the past. Although grant money ultimately paid for the land, Norfolk Land Trust president Libby Borden offered to serve as the conservation buyer, which required her to mortgage her house to give the NLT time to raise the money. The Land Trust recognized Borden’s contribution by naming the land after her. 

In addition to preserving the ecological integrity of these areas, the Norfolk Land Trust has enlisted the help of Greenagers, a youth-oriented organization specializing in environmental conservation and sustainable farming. Greenagers will be working on the Borden Woods property to clear trails, specifically to create a switchback on steeper trail areas to ensure safety and accessibility, as well as clearing invasive plant species from the Ells Crane trail. This collaboration not only enhances the recreational value of the property but also provides local teens and young adults with valuable hands-on experience in natural resource management. 

“The opportunity to help teenagers get out into the woods during the summer and help the Norfolk Land Trust as well was irresistible,” says Borden. Participants in Greenagers programs will learn essential vocational skills while contributing to the community’s enjoyment of Borden Woods. This partnership highlights the Norfolk Land Trust’s commitment to fostering a culture of stewardship for local resources while at the same time engaging the next generation in conservation efforts. 

By preserving these areas, the Norfolk Land Trust continues to protect vital ecosystems, support biodiversity, and provide residents and visitors with opportunities to connect with nature. As the Greenagers begin their work on the trails, the community can look forward to enhanced access to these scenic landscapes, ensuring that the beauty and tranquility of Norfolk Land Trust properties remain accessible to all.