Connecticut DEEP Kellogg Environmental Center

This location at Hammonasset State Park shows the changing impact of sea-level rise on the coast due to sea level rise.  This area is a restoration project in partnership with CT  Audubon using natural plantings to improve the wetland functions.  Increasing native plantings and dune structure increases the absorbency and reduces potential flooding.  This is critical to the nesting ability of several protected birds, including the Piping Plover and Saltmarsh Sparrow. Watch and help document the plants' growth and water levels over time.  

Hammonasset State Park Wetland Restoration

Dedicated in 2001, this park preserves 177 acres of ecologically important Connecticut River frontage. Tucked into a growing suburban landscape, River Highlands has escaped development to provide a quiet refuge with a wonderful view. Where once there were farm fields and pastures, the woodlands have taken over, and the wetland systems have rebuilt themselves. A great view of the Connecticut River is seen here and you can help us document the changing river as you add photos for this site.  The Connecticut River is the major freshwater system for the Long Island Sound and precipitation impacts its activity as it drains water from its headwaters in Quebec to the mouth of the river in Old Saybrook.

River Highlands State Park Overlook

Osborndale State Park is 350 acres located in Derby, CT, and was willed to the state by Francis Osborne-Kellogg in 1956.  This is a man-made pond and is fed by a natural spring.  The seasonal changes are reflective of precipitation and the availability of water in the water table.  Frequently, the front pond goes dry, and your photos will help connect when it is high and low with changes in weather and precipitation.

Osbornedale State Park,  Derby, CT

This meadow is part of a project to add diversity of native wildflowers to improve pollinator opportunities.  We are part of the Monarch Larvae Monitoring Project, and Monarchs use this site heavily.  The density of milkweed is good but could be used more if there were a higher diversity of flowers to attract them. We hope to add more pollinating options to increase the egg laying activity in this area. Portions are being solarized to remove weeds, and the small open plots are seeded, and planted with native wildflowers and grasses.

Connecticut DEEP Kellogg Environmental Center

Connecticut

4 chronologs managed by Connecticut DEEP Kellogg Environmental Center

Hammonasset State Park Wetland Restoration

River Highlands State Park Overlook

Kellogg Environmental Center, Meadow

Osbornedale State Park, Derby, CT

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