Calendar of Events Archive |
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January 2012
Galapagos Program - "At the Edge of the Earth"
January 29, 2012 • 2 p.m. • Simsbury Public Library
This multimedia program will combine beautiful still images and movies for a unique look at the geology and biology of these remote islands. We will consider what it is about them which helped Darwin reach his extraordinary conclusions about natural selection as the driving force behind evolution. Don't miss this opportunity to share close encounters with Blue-footed Boobies, Lava Lizards, Giant Land Iguanas, Galapagos Sea Lions and many more.
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December 2011
Volunteers Needed for a Trail Work Day!
Saturday, December 10 • 9:30 a.m. • Meet at the Simsbury Land Trust office, 10A Phelps Lane
Due to the trail damage from the Halloween storm, we will be having a trail work day on Saturday, Dec. 10. There is a large amount of work to be done, so it is important to RSVP by Dec. 5 so we know how many to expect. RSVP's are required to Don and Sally Rieger, 860-658-7317. Please leave a message with a callback number. Due to the expected workload, this would not be a suitable trail work day for children. Thank you for your help!
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October 2011
Wagner Woods and Great Pond Walk
October 8, 2011 • 9:00 a.m. • Great Pond Forest parking lot
(entry off of Great Pond Road)
The hike will go through Great Pond Forest across Great Pond Road to the Simsbury Land Trust Wagner Woods and return. The 'Great Pond' in Great Pond forest is a 30 acre shallow lake that is a key stopover during bird migrations and also is known for is diversity of birds throughout the year. The hike will go along the dam with vistas over the lake and then through a mainly White Pine forest with the trail going through some of the oldest growth in the forest. Wagner Woods is a 62 acre property with a mix of forest and fields. This along with a couple of small ponds and access to Hop Brook Creek, makes is also share a large bird population. A series of trails go through the forest and around the fields. The route back through Great Pond forest will vary a little to add some variety to the hike. The hike is fairly easy with only some up slopes, but no difficult sections. Overall time of the hike is estimated at 2 to 2 1/2 hours based on the number of stops. Distance will be around 3 miles. For those interested in bird watching, bring your binoculars. The large increase in mosquitoes from all the rains may still have some around, so bring your repellant. With a lot of beauty along the trail and the possibility of some fall color, bring your cameras. RSVP’s are requested to 860-651-8773 by October 6.
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Owen-Mortimer Hike
October 23, 2011 • 1:00 p.m. • SLT Office on the grounds of the Phelps Tavern Museum (off Phelps Lane between Hopmeadow and Iron Horse Blvd)
Join property steward Joe Springman for a hike at the Owen-Mortimer property. View the boardwalk provided by Boy Scouts and see how the property connects to town land and to Pennwood State Park. (We wil not be walking up the rocky, steep slope into Pennwood). Meet at the land trust office at 1:00PM, October 23, to carpool to Owen-Mortimer. Street parking near the property is very limited. RSVP’s are requested by October 20 to 860-651-8773.
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September 2011
Today's event will be held as scheduled.
Join us for our free annual membership celebration on September 24 at Tulmeadow Farm.
Saturday, September 24 - Tulmeadow Farm Field
10:30 a.m. |
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Official Thank You Ceremony |
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11:00 a.m.-Noon |
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Pony rides courtesy of Flamig Farm |
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11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. |
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FREE Hayrides, BBQ, Tulmeadow Farm Ice Cream, Hikes, Kids Activities and more! |
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Noon & 12:30 p.m. |
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Special Reptile and Amphibian Program |
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RAINDATE Sunday, September 25
11:30 a.m. |
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Official Thank You Ceremony |
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Noon-3 p.m. |
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FREE Hayrides, BBQ, Tulmeadow Farm Ice Cream, Hikes, Kids Activities and more! |
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June 2011
Family Friendly CT Trails Day Hike
Sat., June 4 (Raindate: Sunday, June 5, 1:00 p.m.)
9:00 a.m. • Parking lot at Great Pond State Forest
Join the SLT for a 3.5 mile hike on level to gently sloped trails. We will walk around Great Pond and through the woods to Great Pond Road. Cross the street to the SLT’s Wagner Woods and walk the trail loop there. Then head back to your car at Great Pond. Please park in the parking lot at Great Pond State Forest. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a drink. Great Pond is frequently visited by a variety of birds, so you may have a chance to see herons, sandpipers or ducks. RSVP’s are requested to 860-651-8773.
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CT Trails Day Hike on West Mountain Trails
Sat., June 4 (Raindate: Sunday, June 5, 9:00 a.m.)
9:00 a.m. • Simsbury Land Trust trailhead at 60 Westledge Road
Join the SLT for a loop hike of about five miles which traverses property with Hop Brook bottomlands and a historic dam, follows a ridgeline with views of the Farmington Valley and beyond, and then returns through a dramatic and geologically significant valley. Meet and park at the Simsbury Land Trust trailhead at 60 Westledge Road. Hikers should wear suitable shoes, and should consider bringing drinking water, a snack, and insect repellent. Allow 3 hours. RSVP’s are requested to 860-651-8773.
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Trail Run Series
Sat., June 4
These event locations will be based on weather. Please sign up for our trail run list by emailing azeiner@simsburylandtrust.org and we will let you know when details are available.uested by Jan. 19.
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Simsbury Land Trust Work Day
Sat., June 11
9:00 a.m. • Simsbury Land Trust Office, Phelps Lane and Railroad Street (near Simsbury Historical Society Visitor Center)
Join us for a Work Day! Meet at the Simsbury Land Trust office. Bring the usual work gloves, insect repellent, drinking water, plus clippers, loppers, garden forks, as available. We will be done by lunch time. Please call or e-mail Sally and Don (dfrandssr@aol.com, 860-658-7317) with questions and to confirm attendance.
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May 2011
Simsbury Land Trust Annual Business Meeting
Thurs., May 5
7:00 p.m. • Simsbury Farms Apple Barn
Join us as we look back at the successes of 2010 and make our plans for the upcoming year. Dessert and coffee will be served. RSVP's are requested, but no required.
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Trail Run Series
Sat., April 2 • Sat., May 7 • Sat., June 4
These event locations will be based on weather. Please sign up for our trail run list by emailing azeiner@simsburylandtrust.org and we will let you know when details are available.uested by Jan. 19.
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Macroinvertebrates Stream Hunt
Sun., May 15
1:30 – 3:30 p.m. • 60 Westledge Road, West Simsbury
Join Alissa Philips-Griggs of the Farmington River Watershed and the SLT for a family-oriented search for crayfish, insect larvae and other inhabitants of a local stream. See who is hiding under the rocks and learn about their eating habits, life cycle and living requirements. Be prepared to get your feet wet. Space is limited, so be sure to RSVP to 860-651-8773.
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April 2011
Trail Run Series
Sat., April 2 • Sat., May 7 • Sat., June 4
These event locations will be based on weather. Please sign up for our trail run list by emailing azeiner@simsburylandtrust.org and we will let you know when details are available.uested by Jan. 19.
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Wagner Woods Bird Walk
Sat., April 9 • 8:00 a.m.
8:00 a.m. • Wagner Woods on Great Pond Road
Join local birding expert and property steward Roger Preston on a bird watching walk through Wagner Woods. Dress appropriately for the weather and wet trail conditions. Bring binoculars if you have them. The walk will last for about an hour and a half. Heavy rain will cancel the event. Space is limited, so RSVPs are required by April 4.
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Annual Linda's Litter Lugging Day
Sat., April 9
9:00 - 11:00 a.m. • Town Hall Parking Lot
State Representative Linda Schofield (D-Simsbury) is recruiting volunteers for the third annual Linda's Litter Lugging Day on April 9th.
Volunteers will meet at the town hall parking lot between 9:00 and 11:00 AM on Saturday, April 9th, where they will be given a clean-up assignment, rubber gloves, trash bags, and orange safety vests. Volunteers may also sign up for a section of road in advance, if they prefer. The rain date is Saturday, April 16th .
Paine's will be removing all the recyclables and trash collected at 3:00 p.m. from the town hall parking lot. Refreshments will be provided by Fitzgerald's.
Interested volunteers should email Linda at Linda.Schofield@cga.ct.gov or call her at her office at 860-240-8635.
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Family Hike and Breakfast at Flamig Farm
Sat., April 30
9:30 a.m. • Flamig Farm Party Room
Join the SLT and Farmer Nevin for breakfast and a family hike. Additional details will be announced later in March. Space will be limited, so RSVPs will be required.
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March 2011
Chicks, Tadpoles, Pups and Kits
Sat., March 26
10:00 a.m. • Simsbury Farms Apple Barn
Spring is a for time wildlife babies! Come learn when exactly these babies will be arriving, where you can find them, and what they are called. Find out what to do if you find what seems to be an abandoned baby bird or bunny and how you can make your yard safe for these new arrivals. There may even be a few newborns to view. Open to all ages. RSVP to 860-651-8773 by March 21.
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Please join the Simsbury Land Trust Board of Trustees for the 2011 Annual Membership Dinner
Thursday, March 31st
6:00 - 9:00 p.m. • The Riverview • 10 Winslow Place • Simsbury, CT
 A special evening celebrating the completion of the Campaign for Simsbury!
The Simsbury Land Trust is hosting the Annual Membership Dinner at The Riverview again this year with a format for the evening similar to last year's successful event. The night will start with an open bar and hors d'oeuvres, along with jazz entertainment. The social hour will be followed by pasta, Asian and turkey carving stations. Bring your food to the table or eat as you mingle with the other guests. Seating is open — your choice of tables! After dinner we will take a seat for a special video presentation, followed by a dessert buffet and coffee and tea served at the tables. The evening will be capped off with our celebration of the completion of the 10-year Campaign for Simsbury. We will recognize some special guests for their contributions to the success of the Campaign, and we will end the evening with a look ahead into 2011.
6:00 Hors d'oeuvres, open bar and social
- Musical entertainment by Jim Martocchio and Damien
6:30 Pasta, Asian and Turkey Carving stations
7:30 Welcome - Campaign for Simsbury Video
8:00 Special Celebration Presentations
- Campaign for Simsbury Wrap up
- Recognition Awards
- Year in Review - What's Ahead in 2011
SLT Annual Dinner a Big Success
130 SLT members attended the March 31st Annual Dinner at The Riverview. Attendees enjoyed wonderful food, fine company and music by Jim Martocchio and Damien Curtiss before sitting down to a short video produced by our own Jim Ray. The evening ended with a wrap up of the Campaign and some awards to some special members.
Those being honored included donors Herman and Letty Fonteyne, Tim and Sheryl Ruark, Steve and Beth Ballentine, along with property donors and new life members Rick and Carole Wagner and Lina Wagner for the donation of Wagner Woods.
February 2011
What Makes a Good Life for a Box Turtle?
Dennis Quinn
Sunday, February 13
2 - 4 p.m. • Simsbury Library
Dennis Quinn is a Connecticut herpetologist. He worked on the Farmington Valley Biodiversity Project and now owns and operates a consulting firm, CTHerpConsultant LLC, :dedicated to research, conservation and preservation of Connecticut's reptiles and amphibians". He will present a program on box turtle research done in Brookfield, CT in connection with the Route 7 bypass, a new highway segment. An article about the Dennis' "turtle tunnels" that provide safe passage under the roadway appeared in the Hartford Courant in the summer of 2010. Dennis will talk about the habitat needs and life cycle of box turtles and the successes and problems in the efforts to protect them. Refreshments will be served. RSVP's are requested by February 7.
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January 2011
Asian Longhorn Beetles and Emerald Ash Borer Talk
Joan Allen
Sunday, January 23
2 - 3 p.m. • Simsbury Public Library Program Room
Find out more about the Asian Longhorned Beetle and the Emerald Ash Borer, two non-native beetles that have the potential to cause devastating losses to Connecticut trees if they find their way into the state and go undetected. The Asian Longhorned Beetle has been responsible for serious losses of maples and other hardwoods in nearby states including Massachusetts, New York and New Jersey. In 2010, the Emerald Ash Borer was identified in several New York counties. Keeping an eye out for these pests or evidence of them will help ensure early detection if and when they occur in Connecticut and this gives us the best chance of minimizing tree damage and loss. RSVP’s are requested by Jan. 19.
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November 2010
"Deep Travel" with author David Leff
Thursday, November 4
6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. • Simsbury Public Library Program Room
Are you a deep traveler? Do you seek connections among the diverse phenomena you encounter daily? Join author David Leff for a journey that goes deep rather than far.
We'll begin our adventure with Henry David Thoreau on his epic trip along the Concord and Merrimack Rivers. But we'll also explore how our own ordinary journeys can probe the confluence of natural and cultural environments, how we can see the world in four dimensions, in time as well as space. Deep travel is about mindful looking, about journeys that go below the surface of the ordinary to find wonders hidden in plain sight. The restless eyes of ancient shepherds connected the dots in a night sky of chaotic stars and formed them into images and stories that captured the imagination and infused their world with meaning. The deep traveler does the same with the landscape around him. Deep travel is a methodology that will enrich a trip anywhere. To learn more visit www.davidkleff.com. Refreshments will be served. RSVP to 860-651-8773.
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Simsbury on Canvas
An Evening of Art, Food and Wine
Friday, November 5, 2010
7 - 10 p.m. • Tower Ridge Country Club
Join us for an art auction and wine sampling event featuring the work of local artists Catherine Elliott and Deborah Leonard. Other participating artists include John Johnson and Alexander Anisimov. Many of their works feature scenes of SLT properties. The proceeds of the auction will benefit the Simsbury Land Trust and the Tulmeadow Farm Woodlot. For pictures and descriptions of the works available at the auction visit our website at www.simsburylandtrust.org. Several additional items will be available including one week in a villa in Tuscany and a week at a condo in Waterville Valley, NH. Tickets are $50 per person. Tables of 8 or 10 can be reserved. Ticket price includes food, wine sampling, open bar and entertainment. For information and tickets contact the Simsbury Land Trust at 860-651-8773 or amyzeiner@aol.com.
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History of the land on West Mountain
Sunday, November 14
1:00 - 3:30 p.m. • 60 Westledge Road, West Simsbury Land Trust
Join Fred Feibel for a hike along the west ridge. We will hike the ridges and valleys of the eastern section of West Mountain examining aspects of the natural history and usage of the area by past residents. It will be moderately difficult hike and last about 2.5 hours. Please bring water, dress appropriately for the weather and wear sturdy footwear. RSVP by 11/10 to 651-8773.
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Work Party at Wagner Woods!
Sunday, November 14
9:00 a.m. • 153 Great Pond Road
Join us to for a work party at the new Wagner Woods property and help us clean up the trail. Bring work gloves, lopper and bow saws if you have them. RSVP to 651-8773.
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October 2010
Aliens in Our Backyard
Sunday, October 3
2:00 p.m. • Roaring Brook Nature Center
What is taking over your yard? Oriental bittersweet? Japanese knotweed? Garlic mustard? Where did they come from, why are they here? What can you do to stop them from taking over? What's happening beyond our backyards? What new aliens are on our doorstep? Join us for a presentation on these alien plants (and animals) and a hike on the trails of Werner's Woods as we go in search of these alien species. Cost: $4.00 members, $6.00 nonmembers. (This event is sponsored by Roaring Brook Nature Center). RSVP’s are required to 860-693-0263.
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Fall Forage for wild foods
Sunday, October 10th
2:00 - 4:00 p.m. • Great Pond State Park
Enjoy the splendor of Great Pond State Park with Marlene Snecinski, Mycology naturalist, while foraging for wild mushrooms and other fall botanicals. This is an easy loop walk, appropriate for all ages and abilities. Please dress for the weather and exposure to ticks: long sleeves and pants tucked into socks and sturdy shoes. We meet at the trailhead parking lot inside the park. RSVP is requested to 651-8773.
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First Annual Run for the Woods!
Saturday, October 16
10:00 Run, 10:30 Walk • Tulmeadow Farm Field
 Join the SLT for our first ever fundraising trail event! Run or walk the Tulmeadow Farm Woodlot and beyond and help us raise money to “finish the farm.” The 5 mile trail run and the 2 mile walk begin and end in the Tulmeadow Farm field. After the event join us at out annual membership celebration for food, music and fun.
Fee: FREE if you renew or join the SLT by October 16. Receive one free entry for an individual membership, two free and one free child entry for a family membership. $5 per additional family member.
NON-MEMBER - $25.00 per adult, walk or run, $15 for kids 18 and under, which includes event t-shirt and BBQ celebration after the event.
Pre-registration and payment required in order to receive the event t-shirt.
Call 651-8773 for additional event information.
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Annual Membership Celebration
Saturday, October 16
11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. • Follow signs for parking at Tulmeadow Farm
Join us for the Annual Membership Celebration at Tulmeadow Farm. Free bbq, hayrides, entertainment, and guided hikes will be offered. Membership brochures and information other Simsbury Land Trust activities will be available. Free hayrides -- Free BBQ lunch -- Guided hikes.
Entertainment by Sweetheart Mountain-- Family Fun!
Bring the whole family and join us for a fun event. Please, no dogs at this event! RSVP’s are not required for this event.This will be held rain or shine.
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Metacomet Ridge Trail Hike
Sunday, October 24
10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. • Penwood Park Parking Lot
Join us for a fall hike along the Metacomet Ridge blue trail, starting at Penwood Park. Hikers will have the option of stopping at Wintonbury Road (for a 1-1/2 hour hike), or going all the way to Tariffville center (for a 2-1/2 hour hike). Shuttle back to Penwood will be provided. Hikers may enjoy an after-hike lunch in Tariffville. This will be a great hike for kids, with some moderate uphill walking and several great views. Please wear sturdy shoes and bring water. RSVP to 651-8773.
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Thank you party for stewards, monitors and workday volunteers!
Saturday, October 30
10:30 am. - 2:00 p.m. • 22 Woodhaven Drive
Have you helped us on the trails? At a workday? Please join us for a thank you hike and lunch. We will leave from the end of Woodhaven Drive for a nice hike through the Ethel Walker Woods. After the hike join us for lunch at the home of SLT trustee Karen Brand. Families and significant others are welcome. Don’t want to hike? Join us for the lunch at 12. RSVP’s are required for planning purposes to 651-8773.
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September 2010
Walker Trail Run
Saturday, September 25
10:00 a.m. • cul du sac on Woodhaven Drive • 4 miles
Meet at cul du sac on Woodhaven Drive for a run through the Ethel Walker Woods. RSVP's not required. We are looking for some people who would like to meet on a semi-regular basis for runs at a variety of locations around town.
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June 2010
Connecticut Trails Day Hike
West Mountain Trails
Saturday, June 5
9:00 a.m. • 60 Westledge Road
The hike begins at Simsbury Land Trust's trailhead at 60 Westledge Road, where there is off-street parking. It will traverse the 60 Westledge property with its Hop Brook bottomlands and historic dam. It will follow the red trail from there, up to and along a ridgeline affording splendid views of the Farmington Valley and beyond. A fairly steep descent will lead to the white trail through the saddle, which connects to the blue trail. The blue trail returns to the starting point through a dramatic and geologically significant valley. The loop totals about five miles, much of it steep and with somewhat difficult footing. This is a strenuous hike suitable only for those who are fit. It is not recommended for small children.
Wear suitable shoes or boots. Bring drinking water, a snack if you wish, insect repellent and perhaps a hiking stick. The hike will last about three hours The leaders will be Sally and Don Rieger. Participants should register in advance with the land trust at 860-651-8773.
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Spring Workday!
Join the Team Battling Japanese Barberry and Multiflora Rose
Saturday, June 19
8:00-11:00 a.m. • Fire Pond on Metacom Drive
Meet at the fire pond on Metacom Drive. From there it is a short walk to the beautiful and seldom visited James Property. Steward Susan VanKleef and other volunteers will work at removing hated invasive plants. Bring gloves that will resist thorns. Also loppers and a garden fork if you have them (We will have extras to share). Also drinking water and insect repellent of choice. Long pants and long sleeves are recommended. RSVP's are required to 860-651-8773 or amyzeiner@aol.com to allow for planning the workday. Call Sally or Don at 860-658-7317 with questions or for last minute rain cancellation updates.
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Ceremonial Opening of the Gersten Property
Saturday, June 19
10:00 a.m. • Park in the Trinity Episcopal Church parking lot, 11 Church St., Tariffville
Join the Town of Simsbury, the Tariffville Village Association and Simsbury Land Trust for an official celebration of the town’s acquisition of the Gersten property in Tariffville. First Selectman Mary Glassman will officiate at a ribbon cutting ceremony (at the end of Church Street Extension) followed by a loop hike including some of the National Scenic “Metacomet" Trail and visiting Bartlett's Tower on the Gersten property.
Built in 1889 as a pavilion and bowling alley, Bartlett’s Tower originally attracted picnicking day trippers from Hartford. Traveling by train to the Tariffville station, and then by carriage to the 70-foot tower, visitors enjoyed varied recreation and a famous panoramic view. Today a chimney sits at the top of the slope – all that remains of the tower, which burned down on May 24, 1936.
The walk is about 2.6 miles long and should take about two hours. It begins in Tariffville at the end of Church Street Extension. Most of the walk is fairly level, but it includes some steep hills and a lot of rocky, uneven footing. It is suitable for people who are fit, including kids. Park in the Trinity Episcopal Church parking lot, 11 Church St., Tariffville.
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May 2010
Great Pond Bird Hike
Sunday, May 2
7:00 a.m. • Great Pond State Park
Join Jay Kaplan from Roaring Brook Nature Center and the SLT on a bird hike at Great Pond. People should bring binoculars and wear shoes appropriate for wet conditions. The walk is not appropriate for small children. Event will be cancelled in the event of heavy rain. Reservations are requested.
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May is for morels and other wild edibles walk – Cancelled
Saturday, May 8
9:00 a.m. • Great Pond State Park
Join naturalist Marlene Snecinski for a spring hike, foraging for wild medicinal and edible plants, searching for the elusive morel. Marlene is a member of CVMS and does a variety of mushroom walks for area groups. This event will be held rain or shine. Dress appropriately for possible thick brush or soggy footing. All ages welcome. RSVP’s are requested.
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SLT Annual Business Meeting
Saturday, May 15
8:30 breakfast, 9:00 meeting and hike
Roaring Brook Nature Center, Gracey Road, Canton
Come to the SLT’s Annual Business Meeting. Celebrate our accomplishments of 2009 and learn about our plans for 2010. After the short breakfast and business meeting, join us for a hike on the grounds of Roaring Brook Nature Center. The event is free of charge. Breakfast and Annual Business Meeting will be held rain or shine. Hike will be cancelled in the event of rain. RSVP’s are requested by May 7.
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Plein Air Paint Out
Saturday, May 22
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. • Tulmeadow Farm Fields and Woodlot
Tulmeadow Farm will host a ''Paint-Out'' event on Sat. May 22nd (raindate Sun .May 23rd). The term paint out is taking from the French term En plein air which is a expression which means "in the open air", and is particularly used to describe the act of painting outdoors. Artist will be painting on the farm land from 9am-3pm. Come and see a painting being created from start to finish inspired by the beauty of this pastoral landscape. Catherine M. Elliott and Deborah Leonard will be a few of the artists painting that day as well as other notable local artists.
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April 2010
The Basics of Vegetable Gardening
Wednesday, April 7
7:00 p.m. • Simsbury Farms Apple Barn
Thinking about starting a vegetable garden? For all kinds of reasons, more people are interested in growing some of their own food. Find out how to plan and prepare a vegetable garden, start seed for transplants, care for your garden and prevent and manage common disease and insect problems. Joan Allen is an assistant extension educator at the UConn Home & Garden Education Center. She teaches courses in the Master Gardener program including vegetable gardening, small fruits and plant pathology and is the plant diagnostician. To reserve space for this event, call the SLT at 860-651-8773.
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Annual Membership Dinner
Tuesday, April 13
6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. • The Riverview Banquet Facility, Simsbury
Join fellow SLT members for our Annual Membership Dinner.
Guest speaker David Skelly is Professor of Ecology and Associate Dean for Research at Yale's Environment School. His research focuses on the consequences of human caused changes in the environment on wildlife species. In addition to his research on developmental deformities, he is also studying rapid evolution in response to temperature change. Prof. Skelly has received a Guggenheim Fellowship for his research on amphibian conservation as well as awards for his teaching.
The Riverview is located behind Mitchell Volvo, off of Hopmeadow Street in Simsbury. Cost for SLT members is $35 per person, $40 for non members. Price includes open bar, hors d’oeuveres and food stations, dessert, coffee and program. Note: this will be a slightly different format than previous year events. RSVP’s and payment is required in advance by April 6.
Connecticut's Landscape: Past, Present and Future
Summary:
Connecticut stands today as one of the most densely populated states as well as one of the most heavily forested. This contrast is reflected in the state’s wildlife. Bear, bobcat, beaver, moose, and otter are all on the rebound in spite of recent rapid development. But conflicts, some already apparent, and some harder to see, are beginning to emerge. David Skelly will describe how Connecticut reached its present condition after centuries of intensive farming and what the future holds for its landscapes and ecosystems.
Bio:
David Skelly grew up exploring the forests and swamps of Connecticut leading to an early interest in biology. After undergraduate studies at Middlebury College and a Ph.D. in ecology from the University of Michigan, he carried out research in New South Wales, Australia and the Pacific Northwest before moving back to his home state to take a faculty position at the School of Forestry & Environmental Studies at Yale University. Currently, he serves the School as Professor of Ecology and Associate Dean for Research. He is also a Curator at the Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History. Prof. Skelly has received a Guggenheim Fellowship for his research on amphibian conservation as well as awards for his teaching. Much of his current research is focused on understanding how people and wildlife affect each other in the landscapes they share.
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March 2010
Chemical Free Lawns
Wednesday, March 17
7:00 p.m. • Simsbury Farm Apple Barn
Inspired by Connecticut Towns such as Plainville, Cheshire, and Granby using organic gardening practices on town properties, the Farmington River Watershed Association (FRWA) has launched a pesticide-free lawn initiative. FRWA's efforts are two-fold; to educate homeowners and businesses about the dangers of synthetic pesticide and herbicide uses and to maintain a growing list of home and business owner properties that refuse to use these dangerous and lethal chemicals.
If you are interested in learning about the dangers of synthetic lawn chemicals and how to make your lawn "green" naturally, please come to our March presentation by Aimee Petras of the FRWA. If you are unable to attend, learn more by visiting the FRWA website (www.frwa.org). Click on "Pesticides" for lot of good information. This event is co-sponsored by the Town of Simsbury’s Gifford’s Green Conversations and SLT. RSVP’s are requested.
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James Property and the Town of Simsbury Gersten Property
(including a segment of the New England National Scenic Trail)
Sunday, March 28
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. • Meet in Tariffville at the end of Church Street Extension
 This walk is about 2.6 miles long and should take about two hours. It begins in Tariffville at the end of Church Street Extension. Participants may park there, being careful not to block neighbors' driveways. (As always, we encourage car pooling). Most of the walk is fairly level, but it includes some steep hills and a lot of rocky, uneven footing. It is suitable for persons who are fit, including kids. The walk will climb the hill from Church Street Extension and merge with the National Scenic "Metacomet" Trail. It will visit the site of Bartlett Tower and from there follow a loop that will offer a pleasant sylvan walk punctuated by attractive views.
Built in 1889 as a pavilion and bowling alley, Bartlett’s Tower originally attracted picnicking day trippers from Hartford. Traveling by train to the Tariffville station, and then by carriage to the70-foot tower, visitors enjoyed varied recreation and a famous panoramic view. Today, a chimney sits at the top of the slope — all that remains of the tower, which burned down on May 24, 1936. RSVP’s are requested to 860-651-8773.
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Family Winter Walk, Hayride and Supper
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Cancelled • 3:30 - 6:30 p.m. • Flamig Farm’s Event Room
 The Simsbury Land Trust invites you to join us on a Family Winter Walk and Hayride. The event will be held on Saturday, February 27 from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Flamig Farm’s Event Room. The event is open for anyone age 10 or older. Snowdate is Saturday, March 6.
Participants will meet at Flamig Farm and take a late afternoon walk or hayride across the street and through the woods to Tulmeadow Farm. People may choose to take one of two hikes: a Beginners Hike or an Advanced Hike. The Beginners Hike will be shorter and will go at a slower pace. The Advanced Hike will have a slightly longer route and a faster pace. For those who do not want to walk, a hayride will leave at 4:00 p.m. – space on the hayride is on a first-come, first-served basis. When the groups return to Flamig Farm, they will enjoy a meal of soup, sandwiches, hot chocolate, coffee and dessert.
The event is free for Simsbury Land Trust members. Non-members will pay $5 per person or $25 per family. Space is limited and advance reservations (including payment for non-members) is required. To reserve a space for this event, call the Simsbury Land Trust at (860) 651-8773.
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February 2010
Going Native!
Thursday, February 4, 2010
7:00 p.m. • Simsbury Farms Apple Barn
What have your garden plants done for the environment lately? Are your plants staying put or are they escaping into our wild areas and taking over? What plants do birds and butterflies like best? Which native plants look best in our gardens? These and many other questions will be discussed at the next Simsbury Land Trust community presentation “Going Native” by Margery Winters on Thursday, February 4 at 7 p.m. at the Apple Barn.
Margery is an instructor at Roaring Brook Nature Center in Canton and manages their native plant gardens. She is a member of the Simsbury Garden Club and past Chairman of the CT Federated Garden Club Landscape Design Study Program and is a Master Landscape Design Consultant.
The program is free of charge and open to the public. Reservations are not necessary.
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January 2010
Jelle Zeilinga de Boer – Stories in Stone
Saturday, January 9, 2010
2:00 p.m. • Simsbury Library Program Room
 Jelle Zeilinga de Boer, geoscientist and professor emeritus at Wesleyan University will present a program based on his new book, Stories in Stone, at the Simsbury Public Library on Saturday, January 9 at 2:00PM. In his book, Professor de Boer describes how early settlers discovered and exploited Connecticut’s natural resources. Their successes as well as failures form the very basis of the state’s history, and it is this connection between the state’s history and geology that he explores. For example, did you know that lead from a mine in the Middletown area provided bullets for George Washington’s army at a crucial point in the American Revolution? Or that the Statue of Liberty, that quintessential symbol of America, rests on Connecticut’s Stony Creek granite? Join Simsbury Land Trust in the program room of the public library to learn more about the marvel of Connecticut’s geologic diversity and its impact on our history. Snow date: Sunday, January 10, 2:00PM, same location. Refreshments will be served. Call 860-651-8773 to register.
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People and Places of the Simsbury Land Trust
Annual Photography Contest
Deadline for Entries: January 31, 2010
It is never too soon to take photos for the Annual SLT Photo Contest. Inspired by last year’s
annual meeting video presentation, this year our event is titled “People and Places of the
Simsbury Land Trust.” Two things make our organization special: the places we protect and the people that help us do that. Watch our website and your mailbox for additional information and contest rules.
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November 2009
Tariffville Gorge Hike
Sunday, November 8, 2009
1:00 – 3:00 pm. • Tariffville Gorge
Take a walk with us through layers of Mesozoic (200 million year old ) volcanic and sedimentary rock which graphically help to illustrate how this region was formed. See several different kinds of lava flows and get your hands dirty examining specimens up close. This will be a relatively easy hike suitable for the young of all ages. Take route 315 to Tariffville, turn right on 189, bear left onto 187. Cross the bridge on Route 187, then take a right on Spoonville Rd, and an immediate right. Follow this road under the bridge and along the river, then park in the cul-de-sac.
R.S.V.P.s are required by Nov. 5 to 651-8773. Limited space available.
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October 2009
Simsbury Land Trust Open House and Fall Celebration
Saturday, October 31, 2009
1:00 to 4:00 p.m. • Simsbury Land Trust Office, Probate Court Building, 800 Hopmeadow St.
On the grounds of the Phelps Tavern Museum (Parking is off of Phelps Lane.)
Please join us for an afternoon of fun! The Open House and Fall Celebration will be held rain or shine. Activities may be modified in the event of a heavy rain or storm.
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1:00-4:00 p.m. |
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• Music by Sweetheart Mountain
• SLT office tours
• Free tours of the Phelps Tavern Museum for SLT members
• Ice cream, coffee, cider, apples
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1:30 p.m. |
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• Kids costume parade and trick or treating at the museum buildings.
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2:00 p.m. |
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• Hike to the Farmington River (moderate hike, approximately
3 miles, likely wet terrain)
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2:30 p.m. |
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• Family nature hike to Helen’s Way
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3:00 p.m. |
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• Fall craft and historical games
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2:00-4:00 p.m. |
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• Rosedale Farms Wine Tasting (SLT/SHS members only)
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3:00-4:00 p.m. |
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• Ghost Stories in the School House
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September 2009
Simsbury Land Trust Bike Ride Farm Tour
Sunday, September 27, 2009
9:00 a.m. • Rosedale Farms
Join us for a tour of area farms on Sunday, September 27, 2009. The ride will start and end at Rosedale Farms. We'll meet at Rosedale Farms at 9:00 a.m., and we'll have two rides, a 7 mile ride through Weatogue, and a 24 mile loop that goes through Simsbury and into East Granby.
Riders must wear helmets and bring water. Children ages 12 and over for the longer ride, please. To RSVP, contact the office at 651-8773. Please leave your name, a phone number and the number of riders in your group.
Volunteers are also needed along the route to direct riders and for other activities. Please contact the SLT office if you are interested in volunteering.
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June 2009
Simsbury Celebrates Local Farms
Saturday, June 6, 2009
10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. • Tulmeadow Farm Fields and Woods
11:00 a.m. • Special Recognition Ceremony
A ceremony celebrating the completion of Phase II of the Campaign, the protection of the Tulmeadow Triangle and Pasture. Special recognition of state, federal and local donors and an update on the status of the Tulmeadow Woodlot campaign.
11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. • Membership Celebration and BBQ
Hayrides, walking tours, BBQ, ice cream and entertainment free for Simsbury Land Trust members and Simsbury residents. Hayrides and tours throughout the event.
Saturday Farm Day Special Offers
The following specials are available from select farms only on Saturday, June 6.
Dewey Flower Farm:
Special: $1.00 off Relish and Bread & Butter Pickles.
Rosedale Farms:
Specials for SLT members – receive $25.00 off a Summer Membership; $35.00 off an All-Season Membership!
George Hall Farm:
Open from 10 – 6 on Farm Day. Lettuce, spinach and eggs will be available, along with information on his CSA program.
J.L. Hall Farm:
Open Farm Day, will have asparagus available for sale.
Ryan Flower Farm:
Special for Farm Day: 10% of all sales to be donated to the National MS Society.
Flamig Farm:
Special for Farm Day: A free cup of feed for the petting zoo per child.
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60 Westledge Hike in honor of CT Trails Day
Sunday, June 7, 2009
2:00 - 4:30 p.m. • Meet at trailhead on 60 Westledge Road, just past The Master’s School
We will take a hike of about 3 miles to a traprock ridge with views of the Farmington Valley, returning through an adjacent valley with interesting geologic features. The trail is steep and rocky in places, moderate difficulty. Please wear sturdy walking shoes, with hiking boots recommended. Please bring water. Hike will be held rain or shine.
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Canoe and Kayak Trip on the Farmington River
Cancelled – Sunday, June 14, 2009
1:00 - 3:00 p.m. • Meet at Curtis Park for a trip to the starting point.
SLT and the FRWA will team up to host a canoe/kayak trip on the Farmington River. Trip begins at the Pinchot Sycamore Park and ends at Curtis Park. A brief introduction to water trails will be given at the beginning of this event.
Prices:
$25.00 per boat rental
$10 per person member BYOB (bring your own boat)
$15 per person non-membmer BYOB
Attendees bringing their own boats should drop the boats at the Pinchot Sycamore and drive to Curtiss Park. Everyone will be transported from Curtiss Park to the Pinchot Sycamore parking lot for the beginning of the event.
Additional details will be available on our website or by phoning the office at 651-8773.
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May 2009
Simsbury Land Trust Business Meeting, Breakfast and Hike
Saturday, May 2, 2009
9:00 a.m. • The Master’s School Cafeteria
Join us for breakfast, our Annual Business Meeting and a hike! Meet in The Master’s School cafeteria for a light breakfast and hear about our plans for the year. After the short meeting, join us on one of two hikes on the west ridge. Dress for the weather, event will be held rain or shine. Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots recommended for hiking on the ridge. RSVP’s are requested to 651-8773.
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Invasive Plants Training and Work Day
Saturday, May 9, 2009
9:00 a.m. • 60 Westledge Road
Join land trust property stewards for coffee and brief training identifying invasive plants followed by a couple of hours trying our best to stamp them out. Meet at 60 Westledge Road, just past The Master's Schhol. Bring substantial work gloves and a garden fork if you have one (we will have a few extras to share). We will finish by lunchtime. Pre-registration is requested 651-8773. Rain date is May 16.
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April 2009
Bird Watching Hike
Saturday, April 4, 2009
7:30 a.m. • Great Pond State Park
Meet at the Great Pond parking lot for a bird walk with local birding expert, Roger Preston. Early April, before the trees are leafed out, is a good time to look for migrating birds. Bring binoculars and dress for the weather. RSVP's are requested.
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McLean East Loop Trail
Sunday, April 5, 2009
1:00 p.m. • Parking on Northgate Road
Join us on this enjoyable one hour hike through fields, deep woods and hillsides. Hike is suitable for all ages. We will pass through tall stands of pine and talus fields; visit a kettle pond and other wetlands. This hike will introduce you to a trail you will want to revisit again and again. Park on Northgate off of Firetown Rd. and walk a short distance north up the hill to the trailhead.
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Save the Date! Simsbury Land Trust
Annual Membership Dinner
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
6:00 - 8:30 p.m. • Hop Meadow Country Club
Join us for a special multimedia presentation celebrating the spirit of the Simsbury Land Trust and the nature around us through photography, music, and word. $35 members, $40 non-members – Includes hors d'oeuvres, salad, rolls, dinner, dessert and coffee – cash bar available. RSVP’s are required. For additional information see our website or contact the office at 651-8773.
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February 2009
Family Winter Walk, Hayride and Supper
Saturday, February 28, 2009
3:30 - 6:30 p.m. • Flamig Farm’s Event Room
The Simsbury Land Trust invites you to join us on a Family Winter Walk and Hayride. The event will be held on Saturday, February 28 from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Flamig Farm’s Event Room. The event is open for anyone age 10 or older.
 Participants will meet at Flamig Farm and take a late afternoon walk or hayride across the street and through the woods to Tulmeadow Farm. People may choose to take one of two hikes: a Beginners Hike or an Advanced Hike. The Beginners Hike will be shorter and will go at a slower pace. The Advanced Hike will have a slightly longer route and a faster pace. For those who do want to walk, a hayride will leave at 4:00 p.m. – space on the hayride is on a first-come, first-served basis. When the groups return to Flamig Farm, they will enjoy a meal of soup, sandwiches, hot chocolate, coffee and dessert.
The event is free for Simsbury Land Trust members. Non-members will pay $5 per person or $25 per family. Space is limited and advance reservations (including payment for non-members) is required. To reserve a space for this event, call the Simsbury Land Trust at (860) 651-8773.
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The Changing Landscape and the Wildlife Around Us
Peter Picone, Author
Thursday, February 5, 2009
7:00 p.m. • Simsbury Public Library
The Changing Landscape and The Wildlife Around Us. As cultural and economic changes occurred from the colonial period to today, Connecticut's forests became farms and farms became forests: How did wildlife populations change? Also, what are some of the challenges facing wildlife in today's changing landscape ? You are invited to come hear Connecticut Native and Wildlife Biologist Peter Picone deliver a powerpoint presentation and lead a discussion about the wildlife challenges of the past, present and future. Mr. Picone will also share excerpts from his recently published a book entitled Wildlife Is My Passion.
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2008 Annual Photography Contest—
 Deadline extended to February 1, 2009!
Join our annual Photography Contest!
Grab your camera and take a hike! Join over 50 other SLT members and students and submit an entry (or three) to our annual photography contest. Last year over 75 entries were submitted by Simsbury Land Trust members. The rules are simple, and there is no entry fee. All photos must be taken on an SLT property or at an Simsbury Land Trust sponsored event. The contest is open to all members of the Simsbury Land Trust (students do not need to be members.) Many of the photographs may be used in the annual report, membership and other brochures, and the website. If you would like any additional information, please contact the office at 651-8773.
Photography Contest Guidelines
- Open to all members of the Simsbury Land Trust.
- Enter up to 3 pieces in the following categories:
1. Close-up
2. Landscape
3. Computer enhanced photography
4. People in Nature – SLT Activities and Events
5. Student photographers – can be in any of above formats, digital or traditional photography (students are exempt from the membership requirement)
- Work must be in the form of prints 8 x 10 or 5 x 7, b/w or color. Entries will not be returned. All work must be clearly marked with your name, address and phone number, along with the category and location of photo. If you have your photos on disc, a copy on disk as well as printed form would be appreciated.
- All photographs must be taken on Simsbury Land Trust Properties – see our website's Properties & Maps section for a map of properties.
- All winning photographs may be used for promotional purposes by the Simsbury Land Trust. Photographers retain rights to the photograph.
- Winners will be announced at the Simsbury Land Trust Annual Membership Dinner in early spring.
Please submit your entries to:
Simsbury Land Trust
P.O. Box 634
Simsbury, CT 06070
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November 2008
Loop Year – 365 Days on the Trail John Sheirer
Thursday, November 6
6:30 – 8:30 p.m. • Simsbury Public Library Program Room
John Sheirer, Author of the book, Loop Year; 365 Days on the Trail will discuss his book. Copies of the book will be available for sale and for signing. The program is free of charge and open to the public. RSVP to Amy Zeiner, Simsbury Land Trust at 651-8773 or amyzeiner@aol.com
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Pilfershire Trail Hike
Sunday, November 16
1:00 p.m. • Meet at the Northwest corner of Highridge Road
Our most popular hike returns!
Join Trustee Fred Feibel on a tour of old cellar holes and remnants of what had once been "Pilfershire Village”. Hikers will step back in time to get a feel for how some of our earliest settlers lived. Learn how the houses had looked and get some insights about the people who had once made them their homes. Explore stone walls, streams and examine native plants, many of which Native Americans had shared the uses of with our colonists. Many hikers will return with a new found appreciation for our forefathers on West Mountain and an urge to look even deeper into this beautiful part of Simsbury. Dress appropriately for possible cool and wet weather. Parts of the trail are likely to be wet. This is a hike of moderate difficulty.
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October 2008
Walk in the Woods and Breakfast at Tulmeadow Farm
Saturday, October 4
8:30 – 11:00 a.m. (Longer hike at 9:00, the shorter loop trail at 9:15, 10 and 10:45)
This event is co-sponsored by the Town of Simsbury
Take a walk in the woods with the Simsbury Land Trust! See for yourself why the SLT is working to protect this final piece of Tulmeadow Farm. There will be two different hikes: a short loop trail through the 73 acre woodlot and a longer hike to Town Forest and the Ethel Walker Woods (easy-to moderate in difficulty, approximately one to one and one-half hours). Coffee and breakfast will be served.
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Gersten Property, Metacomet Trail, James Property
Saturday, October 18
9:30 and 10:30 a.m. • Park at Trinity Episcopal Church, Church Street, Tariffville. Hike starts at end of Church Street Ext.
Co-sponsored by the Town of Simsbury and the Tariffville Village Association
Join us for a 2 hour hike (2.5 miles) starting at Laurel Hill at the end of the Church Street Extension. Hikes begin at 9:30 and 10:30 and are guided by the Tariffville Village Association. Visit the remains of Bartlett Tower and learn about its history. Enjoy views from the Metacomet Trail. Water and portable snack provided. Please call Simsbury Land Trust Office to register, 651-8773.
Download a PDF of the event poster.
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Geology Hike
Sunday, October 26
1:00 p.m. • Meet at The Master’s School main parking lot.
(Raindate Saturday, November 1)
Walk with Jelle deBoer, Professor Emeritus of Geology, Wesleyan University, to the Western Border Fault Valley in Simsbury. Learn about the valley's formation and why rock on one side of the valley is about 200 million years older than the rock on the other. See an excellent example of a talus slope where cool air moving out of the bottom of the slope results in a microclimate allowing plants typical of northern New England to grow here in Connecticut. Allow 2.5 hours for this walk which includes some rough, slippery and uneven footing. Not suitable for small children. To register call the Land Trust office at 651-8773
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September 2008
Tour Des Farms
Saturday, September 20
Tulmeadow Farm • Registration begins at 8:00 a.m. Ride begins at 9:00 a.m.
$35 per rider before 9/19, $40 per rider day of event
This is a leisure ride designed to highlight several of Connecticut's beautiful orchards and farms in Simsbury and Granby. There will be a single route for this year's ride- approximately 24-mile loop that will visit many farmstands and contains a variety of rolling hills. Registration is limited to those 12 years and older please. Call John Guszkowski with questions at 860-928-7848 or visit www.tourdesfarms.org.
Registration includes a t-shirt and $5.00 in "Farm Bucks," valid for purchase of farm products (produce, baked goods, pumpkins, wine, ice cream, etc.) on the day of the ride. Proceeds to support nonprofit programs designed to promote the viability of Connecticut's farmland.
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June 2008
 Volunteer Work Day!
Saturday June 7, 2008
8:30 a.m. • Meet at the parking area at 60 Westledge Road
Teams will fan out to various SLT properties for miscellaneous upkeep. Bring bow saws and loppers if you have them. We will supply other tools. Lunch will be provided. Rain date: same time Saturday June 14. Questions? Call Don Rieger at 658-7317.
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Hunt for Wild Food with “Wildman” Steve Brill
Saturday, June 7, 2008
10:30 a.m. – 11:30 Lecture 12:30 – 1:30 Walk
Roaring Brook Nature Center, 70 Gracey Road, Canton, CT
$5.00 per person
Hundreds of overlooked edible and medicinal wild herbs, greens, berries, nuts, seeds, roots, and mushrooms grow wild in natural areas throughout our region Under expert supervision, they're easy to learn, recognize, gather ecologically, and use for food and home remedies.Steve will do a lecture in the Nature Center auditorium at 10:30 AM. This will last about an hour or a bit more with questions, followed by a one hour lunch break. At 12:30, Steve will do a one hour walk, limited to 40-50 people. If there is sufficient interest, he will do a second walk for an equal amount of people. RSVP with prepayment is required by calling Roaring Brook Nature Center at 693-0263, space is limited.
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May 2008
 Volunteer Work Day!
Saturday May 3, 2008
8:30 a.m. • Meet at the parking area at 60 Westledge Road
Activities are trail building and invasive plant removal. Bring work gloves and drinking water. Bring bow saws and loppers if you have them. We will supply other tools. You should be home for a late lunch. Rain date: Saturday May 17. Questions? Call Don Rieger at 658-7317.
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Simsbury Land Trust Annual Business Meeting
Thursday, May 8, 2008
7:00 p.m. • Simsbury Farms Apple Barn
The Annual Business Meeting is open to all members of the Simsbury Land Trust. Learn about the activities and accomplishments of the past year.
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April 2008
Simsbury Land Trust Annual Membership Dinner
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
6:00 - 9:00 p.m. • Hop Meadow Country Club
$35.00 for members, $40.00 for non members
Join us for our Annual Membership Dinner. Special guest speaker will be Tom Worthley, Forrester and Extension Educator in Residence from the UCONN Extension Service. His talk, “Stewardship Options and Opportunities on Protected Land” will discuss the public benefit and value of conserved land, and building upon the success of land conservation projects to further additional conservation goals in the community. There will be specific discussion on management and conservation of the Tulmeadow woodlot, the next property to be preserved by the Campaign for Simsbury. Invitations will be sent to members in early March. Non members can RSVP online, or by calling the office at 651-8773.
Volunteer Thank you Breakfast and Sign-up
Saturday, April 12, 2008
9:00 - 10:30 a.m. • Simsbury Farms Apple Barn
Join us for a thank you breakfast and learn about upcoming volunteer opportunities at the Simsbury Land Trust. This event is open to all current and potential volunteers. Bring a friend and stop in for this informal event. RSVP's are requested by April 8 to 651-8773.
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Amphibian and Bird Watching Hike
Sunday, April 13, 2008
2:00 p.m. • Great Pond State Park
Join Jay Kaplan from Roaring Brook Nature Center for an amphibian and bird watching hike at Great Pond State Park. Please wear appropriate shoes for a wet trail, and bring along binoculars for bird watching if you have them. RSVP’s are requested to 651-8773 by
April 6.
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March 2008
Family Evening Hike
March 1, 2008
3:30 - 6:30 p.m. • Flamig Farm
Members Free
Non members $10 per person, $25 per family
Join us for an evening family hike! Meet in Flamig Farm’s event room. We’ll divide into two groups, beginner and advanced. One group will take a short hike on a slower pace. The second group will have a slightly longer route and a faster pace. For those not wishing to walk, a hayride will leave at 4:30. The groups will cross the street and head through the woods to Tulmeadow Farm. At 5:00 or 5:30, we will regroup in the Flamig Farm event room for a light meal of soup, sandwiches, hot chocolate, coffee and dessert. This event is suitable for ages 10 and over.
Space on the hayride is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Members are free, non members are $10 per person, $25 per family. Space is limited, so RSVP’s (and prepayment for non members) are required by February 25. Call 651-8773 to reserve your space!
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February 2008
Wild & Scenic Presentation
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
7:00 p.m. • Apple Barn
 The Simsbury Land Trust will host a presentation on the Lower Farmington River/Salmon Brook Wild & Scenic Study which is currently underway and involves ten area towns. The towns are Avon, Bloomfield, Burlington, Canton, East Granby Farmington, Granby, Hartland, Simsbury and Windsor.
Come and learn what the requirements are for a “Wild & Scenic” river, how a river is designated Wild & Scenic, and what benefits the designation brings to the river and to river communities. Also, enjoy photographs of the Farmington River and its beauty, and find out about current threats to the river.
To learn more about the Lower Farmington River/Salmon Brook Wild & Scenic Study, visit the website www.lowerfarmingtonriver.org or www.salmonbrookwildandscenic.org.
Refreshments will be served at the presentation. To help with planning, we ask that you register online at www.simsburylandtrust.org or by calling the Simsbury Land Trust office at 651-8773.
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November 2007
Join us for a walk, a talk and supper!
Sunday, November 4
3:00-6:00 p.m. • The Master’s School Parking lot and cafeteria
 Help us celebrate the successful completion of the acquisition and permanent protection of 80-acres of the west ridge by joining us for a hike, a talk and a light supper. Knowledgeable guides will lead small groups of hikers on a one hour hike on the west ridge trail. A shorter one mile loop is available at our adjacent property located on 60 Westledge, at the base of The Master’s School driveway. After the hikes, come inside for a light soup and sandwich supper and an informational talk on the archaeology of West Simsbury by special guest speaker Ken Feder. RSVP’s are requested for those planning to have supper to amyzeiner@aol.com or 651-8773.
RSVP to 651-8773 or reply online.
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Pilfershire Hike
Sunday, November 11, 2007
1:00 p.m. • Meet at the northwest corner of Highridge Road, West Simsbury
 Join Trustee Fred Feibel on a tour of old cellar holes and remnants of what had once been "Pilfershire Village”. Hikers will step back in time to get a feel for how some of our earliest settlers lived. Learn how the houses had looked and get some insights about the people who had once made them their homes. Explore stone walls, streams and examine native plants, many of which Native Americans had shared the uses of with our colonists. Many hikers will return with a new found appreciation for our forefathers on West Mountain and an urge to look even deeper into this beautiful part of Simsbury. Dress for wet weather, parts of the trail can be wet. Meet at the northwest corner of Highridge Road in West Simsbury.
RSVP to 651-8773 or reply online.
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October 2007
 Annual Membership Celebration
Saturday, October 20, 2007
11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. • Follow signs for parking at Tulmeadow Farm
Join us for the Annual Membership Celebration at Tulmeadow Farm. Free bbq, hayrides, entertainment, and guided hikes will be offered. Membership brochures and information other Simsbury Land Trust activities will be available. RSVP’s are not required. This will be held rain or shine.
- Free hayrides
- Free BBQ lunch
- Guided hikes
- Entertainment
- Family Fun!
RSVP to 651-8773 or reply online.
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Mushroom Foray and Introduction to Geocaching
Saturday, October 27, 2007
2:00 p.m. • Stratton Brook Park
Mycology naturalist and CVMS member Marlene Snecinski and Geocache club member Judy Cooper will lead SLT members and their guests on a mushroom hike and an introduction to geocaching. This one to two hour hike will be on easy terrain within Stratton Brook State Park in Simsbury. Marlene and Judy will identify fungus we uncover along the trails while learning how to interpret clues using a GPS system to find hidden "caches" around the park. Please dress appropriately for conditions and ticks: Sturdy shoes or boots, socks over long pants and long sleeves with shirt tucked in. It is not necessary to bring a GPS device. Please meet at the lower parking lot adjacent to the covered bridge and picnic area. RSVP's are requested to 651-8773.
RSVP to 651-8773 or reply online.
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September 2007
Farm Bike Tour
Sunday, September 30, 2007
9:00 a.m. • Meet at Rosedale Farms parking lot
Join us on a biking tour of our town's beautiful farms. Bikers will have a choice of three loops, (1) the Weatogue - Simsbury Center loop (7 miles). (This one's great for kids.)
(2) the Weatogue-West Simsbury Loop (15 miles), and (3) the Weatogue -Granby-West Simsbury Loop (25 miles). All loops start and end at Rosedale Farms. Meet at 9:00 a.m. for a guided trip, or check in at Rosedale Farms any time that day and pick up a tour description for a self-guided trip. All bikers please bring helmets and water bottles. RSVP to the Cox Family at 658-6530, and specify guided or self-guided, and your desired loop. Ride will be cancelled in the event of rainy weather.
RSVP to 651-8773 or reply online.
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May 2007
Mushroom Hike and Introduction to Geocaching
Sunday, May 20, 2007
3:00 p.m. • Stratton Brook State Park
Mycology naturalist and CVMS member Marlene Snecinski and Geocache club member Judy Cooper will lead SLT members and their guests on a mushroom hike and an introduction to geocaching. This one to two hour hike will be on easy terrain within Stratton Brook State Park in Simsbury. Marlene and Judy will identify fungus we uncover along the trails while learning how to interpret clues using a GPS system to find hidden "caches" around the park. Please dress appropriately for conditions and ticks: Sturdy shoes or boots, socks over long pants and long sleeves with shirt tucked in. It is not necessary to bring a GPS device. Please meet at the lower parking lot adjacent to the covered bridge and picnic area. RSVP's are requested to 651-8773.
Annual Business Meeting
Thursday, May 17, 2007
7:00 p.m. • Apple Barn
Celebrate our successes in 2006 and our plans for 2007 at our Annual Business Meeting. RSVP to 651-8773.
Wildflower Photography Hike
Saturday, May 5, 2007
9:00 a.m. • Northgate parking lot, McLean Game Refuge
Raindate Sunday, May 6 at 9:00 a.m.
Hunter Neal, SLT Trustee and professional photographer, will lead a wildflower photography hike. Meet in the Northgate parking lot of the McLean Game Refuge, off of Firetown Road. Please bring a camera, a macro lens if you have one, and a tripod with a remote release. Dress appropriately for wet conditions. RSVP’s are required for this event.
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April 2007
West Ridge Hike
Sunday, April 29, 2007
9:30 a.m. • 60 Westledge Road
Join us for a hike starting at SLT's 60 Westledge Road property up to the ridge behind the Master's School. The hike offers an exploration of the Westledge Road woods, with its old stone stairways down into the low area along Hop Brook, and includes a walk to the ridge for wonderful views to the east . The hike will follow the route of the planned red trail which crosses the SLT land, The Master's School land, conservation land and town property. Some of the hike will follow planned SLT trails which are not fully developed, so please wear footwear that is sturdy and suitable for wet spring conditions. Allow 2-3 hours.
Stewardship Work Party
Saturday, April 14, 2007
9:30 a.m. • 60 Westledge Road Property
Join us for a work day Help clear brush and small trees to prepare for our newest trail. Please dress in work clothes, and bring work gloves, lopers and bow saws if you have them. RSVP to 651-8773 so we can plan the days work. Meet in The Master’s School Parking lot. Limited parking is available at 60 Westledge Road.
Annual Membership Dinner
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
6:00 p.m. • Hop Meadow Country Club
Spend an evening with fellow SLT members to celebrate the successes of 2006 and learn about our plans for 2007. David Foster, special guest, will speak about “Wildlands, Woodlands, and Farmlands: A Second Chance to Conserve the New England Landscape.” Hors d’oeuvres, dinner, dessert and coffee are included in the $30 per member fee. Call the office for additional information, 651-8773. RSVP’s are required.
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March 2007
Stewardship Work Party
Saturday, March 31, 2007
9:30 a.m. • 60 Westledge Road Property
Put on your old clothes, grab some work gloves (lopers and a bow saw if you have them) and join us for a work day at the 60 Westledge Property (just past The Master’s School) in West Simsbury. RSVP’s are requested.
Stewardship Work Party
Saturday, March 17, 2007
9:30 a.m. • 60 Westledge Road Property
Put on your old clothes, grab some work gloves (lopers and a bow saw if you have them) and join us for a work day at the 60 Westledge Property (just past The Master’s School) in West Simsbury. RSVP’s are requested.
Bluebird Box Building and Monitoring
Saturday, March 3, 2007
9:00 a.m. • Apple Barn
Join Simsbury Land Trust members to learn about bluebird conservation and help build a bluebird nest box. If you have an appropriate site (a large open area such as a field, meadow or large lawn that is not treated with pesticide), you may take a box to put up following DEP directions. People taking boxes will need to monitor their box weekly from the end to March to September, keep records on the use of the box, and mail a data card to the DEP at the end of the nesting season. This project is an opportunity to learn more about bluebirds, their competitors and preditors. Taking a box requires a commitment to monitoring. Materials and directions will be provided, Limited to 8. Bring an electric phillips screwdriver if you can.
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February 2007
Stewardship Committee Meeting
Thursday, February 15, 2007
7:00 p.m. • SLT Office
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October 2006
Geology Hike
Sunday, October 22
1:00 p.m. • Meet in the North Saddle Ridge Drive cul-de-sac
(Raindate, Sunday, October 29)
Join Trustee Fred Feibel for a geology hike up to the Cathles property, following along the fault line. Enjoy some leaf peeping while learning about some basic geology, including plate tectonics and rock formation, particularly as it relates to the dramatically different formations found on either side of the fault. We will observe the effects of glaciation and examine the unique habitats created here as well. Please dress appropriately and bring water for this moderately difficult hike. No RSVP required.
30th Anniversary Celebration Event
Saturday, October 14
12:00-3:00 p.m. • Simsbury Farms Apple Barn Complex
(Raindate, Sunday, October 15)
Join us as we celebrate the Simsbury Land Trust’s 30th Anniversary! Open to the public, this special anniversary event will include musical entertainment, free bbq lunch, hayrides, educational speakers, animal exhibits, guided hikes, SLT membership and volunteer booths, and more. Watch for additional information. No RSVP required.
Metacomet Ridge Trail Hike
Sunday, October 8
8:30 a.m. • Penwood Park Parking Lot
Join us for a fall hike along the Metacomet Ridge blue trail, starting at Penwood Park. Hikers will have the option of stopping at Wintonbury Road (for a 1-1/2 hour hike), or going all the way to Tariffville center (for a 2-1/2 hour hike). Shuttle back to Penwood will be provided. We'll have coffee and donuts at Penwood Park, and hikers may enjoy an after-hike brunch in Tariffville. This will be a great hike for kids, with some moderate uphill walking and several great views. Please wear sturdy shoes and bring water. RSVP's are required for this event to info@simsburylandtrust.org or to 651-8773 and specify whether you will hike to Wintonbury Road or to Tariffville.
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September 2006
Mushroom Hike
Saturday, September 30, 2007
1:00 p.m. • Town Forest
Enjoy a ramble through the woods surrounding Town Forest Park with amateur mycologist Marlene Snecinski of the Connecticut Valley Mycological Society. We'll walk the varied habitat while identifying fall mushrooms. This hike is flat and suitable for all ages. Wear proper footwear for wet and uneven surfaces and clothing suitable for protection from insects and ticks (socks over long pants/long sleeve shirt, tucked in/hat). Meet at the Town Forest Picnic Pavilion at 1:00 p.m., and allow 2 hours. RSVP to 651-8773 or www.simsburylandtrust.org.
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