Upcoming Events

Conservation of Stone Walls with Robert Thorson

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Hebron, CT stone wall by Robert Thorson
Date: Wed May 21, 2025
Time: 6:00 pm
Place: Lyme Public Hall, 249 Hamburg Rd, Lyme CT
Contact Email: education@lymelandtrust.org
!!! seems it only displays well the 2nd time? ugh.

Stone wall interpretation provides new opportunities to thread together historical, archaeological, aesthetic, geological, and ecological interests. Historically, the walls are important adjuncts to the thousands of historic houses and buildings, cemeteries, battlegrounds, and monuments throughout the region. Archaeologically, they are above-ground ruins. Aesthetically, they convey essential themes in literature and art. Psychologically, they provide boundaries in space and time. Geologically, they are signature land forms for the Anthropocene epoch, the counterpart to the babbling brooks, inland wetlands, coastal dunes, kettle ponds, and bedrock ledges of the postglacial Holocene Epoch. Ecologically, they create dry lands as porous, elevated, and elongate volumes of surface stone that drain quickly.

These words by Robert Thorson convey the importance of New England’s unique stone walls, and he is the authoritative expert, having written the book Stone by Stone: The Magnificent History in New England’s Stone Walls back in 2002. His urgent mission is the preservation of these ubiquitous structures: a step wise approach to the conservation and interpretation of New England’s stone walls that considers these diverse values while also remaining respectful of the presence of Indigenous stonework in the landscapes. We invite you to come and explore these ideas with Dr. Thorson in this fascinating talk – it’s one you won’t want to miss! Learn more.  Conserving the Historic Stone Walls of New England by Robert Thorson. 

Robert Thorson has advised countless federal, state, and town governments, non-profit historical societies, conservation groups, law practices, and private landowners. In a 2023 Smithsonian essay he linked the history of stone walls to literature, ecology, climate change and geoscience, an article selected by the History News Network for the “Best History Writing of 2023.” At the University of Connecticut, he coordinates the Stone Wall Initiative as scholarly engagement within the Connecticut State Museum of Natural History. For three decades he’s been a stump evangelist for the preservation of New England’s historic landscapes.

Co-sponsored with the Lyme Public Hall


Stone wall interpretation provides new opportunities to thread together historical, archaeological, aesthetic, geological, and ecological interests. Historically, the walls are important adjuncts to the thousands of historic houses and buildings, cemeteries, battlegrounds, and monuments throughout the region. Archaeologically, they are above-ground ruins. Aesthetically, they convey essential themes in literature and art. Psychologically, they provide boundaries in space and time. Geologically, they are signature land forms for the Anthropocene epoch, the counterpart to the babbling brooks, inland wetlands, coastal dunes, kettle ponds, and bedrock ledges of the postglacial Holocene Epoch. Ecologically, they create dry lands as porous, elevated, and elongate volumes of surface stone that drain quickly.

These words by Robert Thorson convey the importance of New England’s unique stone walls, and he is the authoritative expert, having written the book Stone by Stone: The Magnificent History in New England’s Stone Walls back in 2002. His urgent mission is the preservation of these ubiquitous structures: a step wise approach to the conservation and interpretation of New England’s stone walls that considers these diverse values while also remaining respectful of the presence of Indigenous stonework in the landscapes. We invite you to come and explore these ideas with Dr. Thorson in this fascinating talk – it’s one you won’t want to miss! Learn more.  Conserving the Historic Stone Walls of New England by Robert Thorson. 

Robert Thorson has advised countless federal, state, and town governments, non-profit historical societies, conservation groups, law practices, and private landowners. In a 2023 Smithsonian essay he linked the history of stone walls to literature, ecology, climate change and geoscience, an article selected by the History News Network for the “Best History Writing of 2023.” At the University of Connecticut, he coordinates the Stone Wall Initiative as scholarly engagement within the Connecticut State Museum of Natural History. For three decades he’s been a stump evangelist for the preservation of New England’s historic landscapes.

Co-sponsored with the Lyme Public Hall


Astronomy Observing Session

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Date: Fri May 23, 2025
Time: 9:00pm - 11:00pm
Place: Trail 53 Observatory
Contact Email: astronomy@lymelandtrust.org
!!! seems it only displays well the 2nd time? ugh.

Young or old, experienced, or totally unfamiliar, we look forward to exposing you to our uniquely dark skies here in Lyme. We have several different telescopes that are on display including a 14″ Schmidt-Cassegrain housed in a permanent observatory.

Registration required. Upon registration you will receive a link to directions and observing session guidelines.

For more information and to register: Astronomy Events


Young or old, experienced, or totally unfamiliar, we look forward to exposing you to our uniquely dark skies here in Lyme. We have several different telescopes that are on display including a 14″ Schmidt-Cassegrain housed in a permanent observatory.

Registration required. Upon registration you will receive a link to directions and observing session guidelines.

For more information and to register: Astronomy Events


Tour Mt Archer Woods Bird-friendly Sugarbush with a Forester

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Rosa Goldman
Date: Sat May 24, 2025
Time: 9:30 -11:30 am
Place: Mt. Archer Woods, Mt. Archer Rd., Lyme CT
Contact Email: education@lymelandtrust.org
Presenter: Audubon
!!! seems it only displays well the 2nd time? ugh.

Mt Archer Woods, a town-owned preserve in Lyme, has been recognized by Audubon’s Bird-Friendly Maple program for forest management that supports songbirds in the sugarbush, the forest area where maple sap is collected by Fat Stone Farm. In celebration of this honor, Audubon forester Rosa Goldman will lead a tour to explain the Bird-Friendly Maple program and how Mt Archer came to be recognized. We will visit various examples of habitat, and learn about the birds they support.

Space is limited on the walk. Please Register: openspace@townlyme.org

Through the Bird-Friendly Maple project (a collaborative effort between Audubon, Cornell, the New York State Maple Producers Association, and the Maple Syrup Producers Association of Connecticut), the Mount Archer Woods sugarbush is managed in ways that provide more resilient bird habitat. An Audubon bird habitat assessment and recommendations for future management are provided for each property in the program. 

Fat Stone Farm has been collecting organic sap from the maple trees on an approximately 32-acre area in Mt Archer Woods for ten years through a lease agreement with the Town of Lyme. Fat Stone Farm is located in Lyme, a short distance (as the crow flies) from the Preserve. Their syrup is available in local stores, at farmers markets, and online. Mt Archer Woods is a 275-acre preserve that is part of a larger block of about 2000 acres of preserved property including the River-to Ridges-Preserves and conservation easements on adjacent private properties. 

Co-sponsored by the Lyme Land Trust and Town of Lyme. 


Mt Archer Woods, a town-owned preserve in Lyme, has been recognized by Audubon’s Bird-Friendly Maple program for forest management that supports songbirds in the sugarbush, the forest area where maple sap is collected by Fat Stone Farm. In celebration of this honor, Audubon forester Rosa Goldman will lead a tour to explain the Bird-Friendly Maple program and how Mt Archer came to be recognized. We will visit various examples of habitat, and learn about the birds they support.

Space is limited on the walk. Please Register: openspace@townlyme.org

Through the Bird-Friendly Maple project (a collaborative effort between Audubon, Cornell, the New York State Maple Producers Association, and the Maple Syrup Producers Association of Connecticut), the Mount Archer Woods sugarbush is managed in ways that provide more resilient bird habitat. An Audubon bird habitat assessment and recommendations for future management are provided for each property in the program. 

Fat Stone Farm has been collecting organic sap from the maple trees on an approximately 32-acre area in Mt Archer Woods for ten years through a lease agreement with the Town of Lyme. Fat Stone Farm is located in Lyme, a short distance (as the crow flies) from the Preserve. Their syrup is available in local stores, at farmers markets, and online. Mt Archer Woods is a 275-acre preserve that is part of a larger block of about 2000 acres of preserved property including the River-to Ridges-Preserves and conservation easements on adjacent private properties. 

Co-sponsored by the Lyme Land Trust and Town of Lyme. 


Family Trail Time with Tori–Hartman Park

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Date: Sun May 25, 2025
Time: 10:00 am
Place: Pleasant Valley Preserve, MacIntosh Rd, Lyme CT
Contact Email: vharris1391@gmail.com
Presenter: Tori Harris
!!! seems it only displays well the 2nd time? ugh.

Walk the Family Faery Quest Loop, search for fairies and visit the Fairy Circle. Click here to see the Faery Quest map. Meet at the Main entrance to Hartman Park on Gungy Rd.

Join Tori and family on the 4th Sunday of every month for a “mile-ish” hike geared towards families with children under 5, but no age limit!

Kindly email vharris1391@gmail.com to register.

Tori is a Mom of two littles – Kade, 4 yrs, and Quinn, 1 yr. Hiking and wandering in the local preserves, has really given her family the safe space to let Kade run loose and has a calming effect on Quinn. Working full time, volunteering in many organizations and finding time to enjoy the outdoors with the whole family, can be tough, but it is worth it!

For more information about the preserves and directions. 


Walk the Family Faery Quest Loop, search for fairies and visit the Fairy Circle. Click here to see the Faery Quest map. Meet at the Main entrance to Hartman Park on Gungy Rd.

Join Tori and family on the 4th Sunday of every month for a “mile-ish” hike geared towards families with children under 5, but no age limit!

Kindly email vharris1391@gmail.com to register.

Tori is a Mom of two littles – Kade, 4 yrs, and Quinn, 1 yr. Hiking and wandering in the local preserves, has really given her family the safe space to let Kade run loose and has a calming effect on Quinn. Working full time, volunteering in many organizations and finding time to enjoy the outdoors with the whole family, can be tough, but it is worth it!

For more information about the preserves and directions. 


Tuesday Trek: Chestnut Hill Preserve/Nehantic State Forest to Uncas Lake and back – Wendy

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chestnut hill
Date: Tue May 27, 2025
Time: 9:00 am
Place: Roadside parking at Chestnut Hill entrance, Sterling Hill Rd, Lyme
Contact Email: openspace@townlyme.org
Presenter: Wendy Hill
!!! seems it only displays well the 2nd time? ugh.

Chestnut Hill Preserve/Nehantic State Forest to Uncas Lake and back. We’ll look for spring ephemeral plants, and check out the recent forest management in Nehantic along the way. About 2.5 miles. Roadside parking at Chestnut Hill entrance, Sterling Hill Rd, Lyme

Register: openspace@townlyme.org

View the Tuesday Trek Schedule


Chestnut Hill Preserve/Nehantic State Forest to Uncas Lake and back. We’ll look for spring ephemeral plants, and check out the recent forest management in Nehantic along the way. About 2.5 miles. Roadside parking at Chestnut Hill entrance, Sterling Hill Rd, Lyme

Register: openspace@townlyme.org

View the Tuesday Trek Schedule


Tour de Lyme 2025

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Joe Standart
Date: Sun June 1, 2025
Time: starting at 7 am
Place: Ashlawn Farms, Bill Hill Road, Lyme CT
Contact Email: kristina.white@lymelandtrust.org
Presenter: Lyme Land Conservation Trust
!!! seems it only displays well the 2nd time? ugh.

 

Please join us for the annual Tour de Lyme cycling event with beautifully scenic routes for all ages and levels. We’re looking forward to seeing you!

Registration begins January 8!

For more information, visit the Tour de Lyme webpage:

The Lyme Land Trust inaugurated Tour de Lyme in 2013 as an annual bike ride to raise funds to support its mission of preserving and protecting environmentally important land in Lyme.


 

Please join us for the annual Tour de Lyme cycling event with beautifully scenic routes for all ages and levels. We’re looking forward to seeing you!

Registration begins January 8!

For more information, visit the Tour de Lyme webpage:

The Lyme Land Trust inaugurated Tour de Lyme in 2013 as an annual bike ride to raise funds to support its mission of preserving and protecting environmentally important land in Lyme.


Tuesday Trek: Banningwood Preserve – Jim

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Hiking Club Banningwood2021
Date: Tue June 3, 2025
Time: 9:00
Place: Meet at parking lot on Rt. 82.
Contact Email: Jim.arrigoni@lymelandtrust.org
Presenter: Jim
!!! seems it only displays well the 2nd time? ugh.

Mostly gentle 2-mile walk through floodplain and upland forests and check out the native plant restoration project between Roaring Creek and the Red Trail.

Register: Jim.arrigoni@lymelandtrust.org

View the Tuesday Trek Schedule


Mostly gentle 2-mile walk through floodplain and upland forests and check out the native plant restoration project between Roaring Creek and the Red Trail.

Register: Jim.arrigoni@lymelandtrust.org

View the Tuesday Trek Schedule


Dusk Hike with Quinn – CT Trails Day

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Photo by Wendy Hill
Date: Sat June 7, 2025
Time: 7:00-8:30 pm
Place: Hartman Park, Gungy Rd, Lyme CT
Contact Email: ryan.p.quinn@gmail.com
Presenter: Quinn
!!! seems it only displays well the 2nd time? ugh.

Join Quinn, Lyme Land Trust board member, for a family friendly (ages 5 and up) hike at the magical time of dusk, just before the darkness creeps in. We focus on how our perceptions change and appreciate what the coming night brings to the forests and ponds of Lyme. There will be an almost full moon. As it gets darker, we will not be using artificial light, but you are invited to bring an emergency flashlight. Dress warmly and bring a walking stick. 

Registration appreciated: ryan.p.quinn@gmail.com


Join Quinn, Lyme Land Trust board member, for a family friendly (ages 5 and up) hike at the magical time of dusk, just before the darkness creeps in. We focus on how our perceptions change and appreciate what the coming night brings to the forests and ponds of Lyme. There will be an almost full moon. As it gets darker, we will not be using artificial light, but you are invited to bring an emergency flashlight. Dress warmly and bring a walking stick. 

Registration appreciated: ryan.p.quinn@gmail.com


Tree Collective- Teen Hike and Steward Group Meet-up

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Date: Sun June 8, 2025
Time: 1:30 -3:30 pm
Place: Register to learn location
Contact Email: reganstacey@gmail.com
!!! seems it only displays well the 2nd time? ugh.

The Tree Collective is a program designed to engage young conservationists ages 14-18 in outdoor fun and education while working to maintain trails in our beautiful town of Lyme, CT. It is sponsored by the Lyme Land Trust under the leadership of environmentalist/artist Regan Stacey. Each time we meet, we offer a different topic, often with a hike and trail work in a selected preserve.

Tools and gloves provided.

For more information. 

Registration required: reganstacey@gmail.com.

Click on flyer to enlarge.

 


The Tree Collective is a program designed to engage young conservationists ages 14-18 in outdoor fun and education while working to maintain trails in our beautiful town of Lyme, CT. It is sponsored by the Lyme Land Trust under the leadership of environmentalist/artist Regan Stacey. Each time we meet, we offer a different topic, often with a hike and trail work in a selected preserve.

Tools and gloves provided.

For more information. 

Registration required: reganstacey@gmail.com.

Click on flyer to enlarge.

 


Tuesday Trek: Mt. Archer Woods – Quinn

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Mt Archer work party
Date: Tue June 10, 2025
Time: 9:00 am
Place: Meet at the Mt. Archer Woods parking lot.
Contact Email: ryan.p.quinn@gmail.com
Presenter: Ryan Quinn
!!! seems it only displays well the 2nd time? ugh.

Let’s go hike around the top of Mt. Archer. This hike will be a little over 2 miles and we will have a lot of fun exploring the woods just before the start of summer.

Contact: ryan.p.quinn@gmail.com

View the Tuesday Trek Schedule


Let’s go hike around the top of Mt. Archer. This hike will be a little over 2 miles and we will have a lot of fun exploring the woods just before the start of summer.

Contact: ryan.p.quinn@gmail.com

View the Tuesday Trek Schedule


The Lazy Gardener – Lyme Pollinator Pathway Invites you to an Afternoon at Ballek’s Garden Center

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Date: Sat June 14, 2025
Time: 2:00-3:00 pm
Place: Ballek's Garden Center, 90 Maple Ave., East Haddam
Contact Email: Lymepollinator@gmail.com
!!! seems it only displays well the 2nd time? ugh.

The Lazy Gardener – Save Time and the Planet!
How to have a Pollinator Garden without giving up your summer

2-2:30 pm – Nancy Ballek will share her tips on how to plan a beautiful pollinator garden that needs less tending, while helping to build a more sustainable ecosystem for us all.

2:30-3 pm – Nancy and her crew will be available for advice on selecting plants, hands-on planting help.

Register by emailing Lymepollinator@gmail.com

————————————

Shop for eady-made pollinator planters – extensive selection native plants

** Maximum 40 participants ** 

Includes a coupon for 10% off native & pollinator plants for that day

Lyme Pollinator Pathway is an initiative of the Lyme SustainableCT Committee. The Lyme Land Trust is sponsoring member. 


The Lazy Gardener – Save Time and the Planet!
How to have a Pollinator Garden without giving up your summer

2-2:30 pm – Nancy Ballek will share her tips on how to plan a beautiful pollinator garden that needs less tending, while helping to build a more sustainable ecosystem for us all.

2:30-3 pm – Nancy and her crew will be available for advice on selecting plants, hands-on planting help.

Register by emailing Lymepollinator@gmail.com

————————————

Shop for eady-made pollinator planters – extensive selection native plants

** Maximum 40 participants ** 

Includes a coupon for 10% off native & pollinator plants for that day

Lyme Pollinator Pathway is an initiative of the Lyme SustainableCT Committee. The Lyme Land Trust is sponsoring member. 


Tuesday Trek: TBD – Kristina

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Tuesday Trek
Date: Tue June 17, 2025
Time: 9:00 am
Place: TBD
Contact Email: kristina.white@lymelandtrust.org
Presenter: Kristina
!!! seems it only displays well the 2nd time? ugh.

TBD

Register: kristina.white@lymelandtrust.org

View the Tuesday Trek Schedule


TBD

Register: kristina.white@lymelandtrust.org

View the Tuesday Trek Schedule


Take-a-Walk Wednesday: John Lohmann CT River Preserve – Wendy

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Photo by Wendy Hill
Date: Wed June 18, 2025
Time: 10:00-11:45ish am
Place: John Lohmann CT River Preserve, 33 Coult Lane, Old Lyme CT
Contact Email: openspace@townlyme.org
Presenter: Wendy Hill
!!! seems it only displays well the 2nd time? ugh.

A short steep incline opens to a beautiful expanse of meadow. We will walk along the mowed path to reach our destination, Whale Rock, a spectacular outcropping with views of Lord Cove and the CT River. Bring your binoculars. 1.5 miles 

Directions: Parking is along the road near 33 Coult Lane, Old Lyme. Coult Lane is a small road on the west side of Rte 156 just south of the Lyme’Old Lyme border. From Halls Rd, Old Lyme, travel 2 miles north on Rte 156. take a left onto Coult Lane. The preserve is about 1/2 mile in on the right. Look for a mailbox with 33 Coult Lane on it.

Please Reserve.  Please email Caitlin Perkins at cperkins@oldlyme-ct.gov or call (860)434-1605 ext. 241. Free to all.
On the 3rd Wednesday of each month (unless noted) the group will get together at various hiking areas in Lyme and Old Lyme.  Hikes will be led by Wendy Hill, Lyme Open Space Coordinator and the Vice President of Lyme Land Trust. The walks are moderate, dirt paths with some uneven footing and moderate hills, unless noted. Paced to the group-two to three miles. Bring a walking stick, water bottle and dress for the weather. Inclement weather cancels.

Sponsored with the Lyme’s Senior Center.

View the Take-a-Walk Wednesday Schedule


A short steep incline opens to a beautiful expanse of meadow. We will walk along the mowed path to reach our destination, Whale Rock, a spectacular outcropping with views of Lord Cove and the CT River. Bring your binoculars. 1.5 miles 

Directions: Parking is along the road near 33 Coult Lane, Old Lyme. Coult Lane is a small road on the west side of Rte 156 just south of the Lyme’Old Lyme border. From Halls Rd, Old Lyme, travel 2 miles north on Rte 156. take a left onto Coult Lane. The preserve is about 1/2 mile in on the right. Look for a mailbox with 33 Coult Lane on it.

Please Reserve.  Please email Caitlin Perkins at cperkins@oldlyme-ct.gov or call (860)434-1605 ext. 241. Free to all.
On the 3rd Wednesday of each month (unless noted) the group will get together at various hiking areas in Lyme and Old Lyme.  Hikes will be led by Wendy Hill, Lyme Open Space Coordinator and the Vice President of Lyme Land Trust. The walks are moderate, dirt paths with some uneven footing and moderate hills, unless noted. Paced to the group-two to three miles. Bring a walking stick, water bottle and dress for the weather. Inclement weather cancels.

Sponsored with the Lyme’s Senior Center.

View the Take-a-Walk Wednesday Schedule


Botanical Walk at Brockway-Hawthorne Preserve

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Pyrola by Wendy Hill
Date: Thu June 19, 2025
Time: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Place: Brockway Hawthorne Preserve, Brush Hill Rd, Lyme
Contact Email: openspace@townlyme.org
Presenter: CT Botanical Society
!!! seems it only displays well the 2nd time? ugh.

Join us for an exploratory walk with the Connecticut Botanical Society at Brockway Hawthorne Preserve. This 82-acre preserve helps protect the Whalebone Cove watershed, with wetlands, vernal pools, mature forest and a healthy hemlock stand. The trail passes former pasture and an abandoned quarry. 

Directions and Parking: We will meet at the main parking lot for the Brockway-Hawthorne Preserve on Brush Hill Road, Lyme, about 1/2 mile south of Hadlyme Four Corners. For a trail map.

Please Pre-register with Lisa or Wendy below. Raindate: June 26

Leaders: Lisa Wahle, lcwahle@gmail.com, 860-304-6184, Wendy Hill, openspace@townlyme.org.  


Join us for an exploratory walk with the Connecticut Botanical Society at Brockway Hawthorne Preserve. This 82-acre preserve helps protect the Whalebone Cove watershed, with wetlands, vernal pools, mature forest and a healthy hemlock stand. The trail passes former pasture and an abandoned quarry. 

Directions and Parking: We will meet at the main parking lot for the Brockway-Hawthorne Preserve on Brush Hill Road, Lyme, about 1/2 mile south of Hadlyme Four Corners. For a trail map.

Please Pre-register with Lisa or Wendy below. Raindate: June 26

Leaders: Lisa Wahle, lcwahle@gmail.com, 860-304-6184, Wendy Hill, openspace@townlyme.org.  


Our Annual Meeting 2025

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Manuel Lizarralde
Date: Fri June 20, 2025
Time: 6:00 pm
Place: Lyme Land Trust Conservation Center, 12-1 Town Street, Lyme CT
Contact Email: info@lymelandtrust.org
Presenter: Professor Manuel Lizarralde
!!! seems it only displays well the 2nd time? ugh.

Please join us for our annual meeting which will include the nomination and voting for new board members, annual financial report, and presentation of volunteer of the year. Everyone is welcome.

Following the meeting, we will have a presentation: Ethnobotany of Southern New England: Plant Knowledge of Indigenous Peoples by Manuel Lizarralde, Professor in Ethnobotany at Connecticut College. Professor Lizarralde will talk about the history and culture of the indigenous people who lived inSouthern New England, and the native plants that have provided food, medicine and everyday use for thousands of years.

Registration required: kristina.white@lymelandtrust.org

Directions: The Lyme Land Trust Conservation Center is at 12-1 Town Street. Park across the street in Banningwood Preserve first field. Handicapped parking on site.

 


Please join us for our annual meeting which will include the nomination and voting for new board members, annual financial report, and presentation of volunteer of the year. Everyone is welcome.

Following the meeting, we will have a presentation: Ethnobotany of Southern New England: Plant Knowledge of Indigenous Peoples by Manuel Lizarralde, Professor in Ethnobotany at Connecticut College. Professor Lizarralde will talk about the history and culture of the indigenous people who lived inSouthern New England, and the native plants that have provided food, medicine and everyday use for thousands of years.

Registration required: kristina.white@lymelandtrust.org

Directions: The Lyme Land Trust Conservation Center is at 12-1 Town Street. Park across the street in Banningwood Preserve first field. Handicapped parking on site.

 


Astronomy Observing Session

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Date: Fri June 20, 2025
Time: 9:00pm - 11:00pm
Place: Trail 53 Observatory
Contact Email: astronomy@lymelandtrust.org
!!! seems it only displays well the 2nd time? ugh.

Young or old, experienced, or totally unfamiliar, we look forward to exposing you to our uniquely dark skies here in Lyme. We have several different telescopes that are on display including a 14″ Schmidt-Cassegrain housed in a permanent observatory.

Registration required. Upon registration you will receive a link to directions and observing session guidelines.

For more information and to register: Astronomy Events


Young or old, experienced, or totally unfamiliar, we look forward to exposing you to our uniquely dark skies here in Lyme. We have several different telescopes that are on display including a 14″ Schmidt-Cassegrain housed in a permanent observatory.

Registration required. Upon registration you will receive a link to directions and observing session guidelines.

For more information and to register: Astronomy Events


Summer Solstice Celebration – A Guided Forest Bathing Experience

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Date: Fri June 20, 2025
Time: 9:30-11:30 am
Place: Pleasant Valley Preserve, Macintosh Road, Lyme CT
Contact Email: regan@reganstacey.com
!!! seems it only displays well the 2nd time? ugh.

Welcome in the season of summer with a guided mindful stroll along the meadow, river, and forest of Pleasant Valley Preserve. Enjoy a gentle mindful movement sequence, nature meditation, and opportunities to connect with the natural world along the way. In honor of the summer solstice, we’ll create a nature-inspired mandala with flowers and items collected from the forest. The session concludes with tea together.

The walk is about 1-mile round trip over easy to moderate terrain.

Registration: free
Register here.

Rain or shine event. Challenging weather cancels.

Forest bathing is inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku – taking in the forest atmosphere. As a growing global wellness movement, it is backed by nearly 40 years of scientific research on the holistic benefits of immersing yourself in nature. These benefits include reduced stress and blood pressure, increased creativity and focus, improved mood and sleep, and a boost to immune functions. 

Regan Stacey is an artist and advocate for the Earth whose passion is to reconnect humans to nature for personal and planetary well-being. She believes we can all awaken the forest within. She is co-founder of The Forest Therapy School, a forest therapy guide training program. Through her private practice, she offers forest bathing walks, mindful nature retreats, and mindfulness training. Regan is also the facilitator of the LLT Tree Collective, connecting teens to nature through stewardship, education, and exploration. Find out more about her work at reganstacey.com or theforesttherapyschool.com


Welcome in the season of summer with a guided mindful stroll along the meadow, river, and forest of Pleasant Valley Preserve. Enjoy a gentle mindful movement sequence, nature meditation, and opportunities to connect with the natural world along the way. In honor of the summer solstice, we’ll create a nature-inspired mandala with flowers and items collected from the forest. The session concludes with tea together.

The walk is about 1-mile round trip over easy to moderate terrain.

Registration: free
Register here.

Rain or shine event. Challenging weather cancels.

Forest bathing is inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku – taking in the forest atmosphere. As a growing global wellness movement, it is backed by nearly 40 years of scientific research on the holistic benefits of immersing yourself in nature. These benefits include reduced stress and blood pressure, increased creativity and focus, improved mood and sleep, and a boost to immune functions. 

Regan Stacey is an artist and advocate for the Earth whose passion is to reconnect humans to nature for personal and planetary well-being. She believes we can all awaken the forest within. She is co-founder of The Forest Therapy School, a forest therapy guide training program. Through her private practice, she offers forest bathing walks, mindful nature retreats, and mindfulness training. Regan is also the facilitator of the LLT Tree Collective, connecting teens to nature through stewardship, education, and exploration. Find out more about her work at reganstacey.com or theforesttherapyschool.com


Family Trail Time with Tori–Pleasant Valley

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Date: Sun June 22, 2025
Time: 10:00 am
Place: Pleasant Valley Preserve, MacIntosh Rd, Lyme CT
Contact Email: vharris1391@gmail.com
Presenter: Tori Harris
!!! seems it only displays well the 2nd time? ugh.

In June, visit the Gnome trail to search for gnomes at Pleasant Valley Preserve. Click here to see the Family Gnome Hunt  map. Meet at the parking lot on MacIntosh Rd.

Join Tori and family on the 4th Sunday of every month for a “mile-ish” hike geared towards families with children under 5, but no age limit!

Kindly email vharris1391@gmail.com to register.

Tori is a Mom of two littles – Kade, 4 yrs, and Quinn, 1 yr. Hiking and wandering in the local preserves, has really given her family the safe space to let Kade run loose and has a calming effect on Quinn. Working full time, volunteering in many organizations and finding time to enjoy the outdoors with the whole family, can be tough, but it is worth it!

For more information about the preserves and directions. 


In June, visit the Gnome trail to search for gnomes at Pleasant Valley Preserve. Click here to see the Family Gnome Hunt  map. Meet at the parking lot on MacIntosh Rd.

Join Tori and family on the 4th Sunday of every month for a “mile-ish” hike geared towards families with children under 5, but no age limit!

Kindly email vharris1391@gmail.com to register.

Tori is a Mom of two littles – Kade, 4 yrs, and Quinn, 1 yr. Hiking and wandering in the local preserves, has really given her family the safe space to let Kade run loose and has a calming effect on Quinn. Working full time, volunteering in many organizations and finding time to enjoy the outdoors with the whole family, can be tough, but it is worth it!

For more information about the preserves and directions. 


Insects with Katherine Dugas – Roaring Brook Preserve

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Date: Sun June 22, 2025
Time: 2:00 - 4:00 pm
Place: Roaring Brook Preserve, Day Hill Rd, Lyme, CT
Contact Email: education@lymelandtrust.org
!!! seems it only displays well the 2nd time? ugh.

Take a walk of discovery with insect expert, Katherine Dugas from the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station.

Space is limited. Registration is required. Register: education@lymelandtrust.org

This is part ofthe Wild Lyme project. Channel your inner Charles Darwin to discover species both new and familiar to you. Along with the joy and wonder of exploration and identification, you’ll contribute to modern-day biology through citizen science.For more information on the Wild Lyme Project and how to install and use iNaturalist. For more information on the Bioblitz Team.

Co-sponsored with Lyme Pollinator Pathway and Town of Lyme


Take a walk of discovery with insect expert, Katherine Dugas from the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station.

Space is limited. Registration is required. Register: education@lymelandtrust.org

This is part ofthe Wild Lyme project. Channel your inner Charles Darwin to discover species both new and familiar to you. Along with the joy and wonder of exploration and identification, you’ll contribute to modern-day biology through citizen science.For more information on the Wild Lyme Project and how to install and use iNaturalist. For more information on the Bioblitz Team.

Co-sponsored with Lyme Pollinator Pathway and Town of Lyme


Tuesday Trek: Johnston Preserve – Wendy

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Wendolyn Hill - Johnston Preserve, Lyme overlook
Date: Tue June 24, 2025
Time: 9:00 am
Place: Meet at the parking area on Rt. 82.
Contact Email: openspace@townlyme.org
Presenter: Wendy Hill
!!! seems it only displays well the 2nd time? ugh.

About a 2.5-mile walk, with a moderate incline to the overlooks and back. We’ll check out the vegetation that has emerged after the bluff meadow restoration work that was carried out in March.

Register: openspace@townlyme.org

View the Tuesday Trek Schedule


About a 2.5-mile walk, with a moderate incline to the overlooks and back. We’ll check out the vegetation that has emerged after the bluff meadow restoration work that was carried out in March.

Register: openspace@townlyme.org

View the Tuesday Trek Schedule


Imagining Lyme–Photo Submission Deadline – Spring

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Asclepias by Kent Girty Private Pollinator Garden
Date: Mon June 30, 2025
Time: midnight
Place: Submit photos to Imagining Lyme website
Contact Email: education@lymelandtrust.org
!!! seems it only displays well the 2nd time? ugh.

Submit up to three of your favorite spring photos to share. The Lyme Land Trust program Imagining Lyme: A Visual Exploration of Lyme’s Preserves encourages everyone to expand their visual awareness and highlight the beauty of the Lyme preserves owned by the Lyme Land Trust, the Town of Lyme, The Nature Conservancy, or the State of CT  by taking photographs prompted by inspiration from professional photographers and artists. Amateur photographers may submit photos. Photographers do not have to be residents of Lyme but all photos must be taken in Lyme in any of these places:

  1. Lyme Preserves owned and/or managed by the Lyme Land Trust, Town of Lyme, The Nature Conservancy, and the State of CT.  View a map of the preserves
  2. Pollinator/wildlife habitat with native plants in Lyme – May be in a backyard, local farm, preserve or in a Lyme Pollinator Pathway garden in Lyme, CT.
  3. Trail 53 – The clear sky above Lyme.

For more information and to submit photos


Submit up to three of your favorite spring photos to share. The Lyme Land Trust program Imagining Lyme: A Visual Exploration of Lyme’s Preserves encourages everyone to expand their visual awareness and highlight the beauty of the Lyme preserves owned by the Lyme Land Trust, the Town of Lyme, The Nature Conservancy, or the State of CT  by taking photographs prompted by inspiration from professional photographers and artists. Amateur photographers may submit photos. Photographers do not have to be residents of Lyme but all photos must be taken in Lyme in any of these places:

  1. Lyme Preserves owned and/or managed by the Lyme Land Trust, Town of Lyme, The Nature Conservancy, and the State of CT.  View a map of the preserves
  2. Pollinator/wildlife habitat with native plants in Lyme – May be in a backyard, local farm, preserve or in a Lyme Pollinator Pathway garden in Lyme, CT.
  3. Trail 53 – The clear sky above Lyme.

For more information and to submit photos


Insects and their Amazingosity with John Himmelman

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Photo by Diane P. Brooks
Date: Tue July 8, 2025
Time: 6:00 pm
Place: Lyme Public Library, 482 Hamburg Rd (Rte 156), Lyme CT
Contact Email: education@lymelandtrust.org
Presenter: John Himmelman
!!! seems it only displays well the 2nd time? ugh.

Join author illustrator John Himmelman for a fascinating presentation about insects geared for kids.

John Himmelman is the author and illustrator of Discovering Moths, Nighttime Jewels in Your Own Backyard and other nature books for children and adults. After the program he will sign books. Books will be available for purchase

To register: programreg@lymepl.org

The program is co-sponsored by the Lyme Pollinator Pathway, the Lyme Land Trust, and the Lyme Public Library.


Join author illustrator John Himmelman for a fascinating presentation about insects geared for kids.

John Himmelman is the author and illustrator of Discovering Moths, Nighttime Jewels in Your Own Backyard and other nature books for children and adults. After the program he will sign books. Books will be available for purchase

To register: programreg@lymepl.org

The program is co-sponsored by the Lyme Pollinator Pathway, the Lyme Land Trust, and the Lyme Public Library.


Astronomy Observing Session

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Date: Fri July 18, 2025
Time: 9:00pm - 11:00pm
Place: Trail 53 Observatory
Contact Email: astronomy@lymelandtrust.org
!!! seems it only displays well the 2nd time? ugh.

Young or old, experienced, or totally unfamiliar, we look forward to exposing you to our uniquely dark skies here in Lyme. We have several different telescopes that are on display including a 14″ Schmidt-Cassegrain housed in a permanent observatory.

Registration required. Upon registration you will receive a link to directions and observing session guidelines.

For more information and to register: Astronomy Events


Young or old, experienced, or totally unfamiliar, we look forward to exposing you to our uniquely dark skies here in Lyme. We have several different telescopes that are on display including a 14″ Schmidt-Cassegrain housed in a permanent observatory.

Registration required. Upon registration you will receive a link to directions and observing session guidelines.

For more information and to register: Astronomy Events


Family Trail Time with Tori–Gillette Castle

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Date: Sun July 20, 2025
Time: 10:00 am
Place: Gillette Castle, Ferry Rd, Lyme CT
Contact Email: vharris1391@gmail.com
Presenter: Tori Harris
!!! seems it only displays well the 2nd time? ugh.

Meet at the Hadlyme Ferry Parking lot on Ferry Rd, Lyme (not Old Lyme) We will begin the walk along the CT River. There is a gentle inclined pathway to get up to the Castle to see the beautiful view. We may get our feet wet.

Join Tori and family on the 4th Sunday of every month for a “mile-ish” hike geared towards families with children under 5, but no age limit!

Kindly email vharris1391@gmail.com to register.

Tori is a Mom of two littles – Kade, 4 yrs, and Quinn, 1 yr. Hiking and wandering in the local preserves, has really given her family the safe space to let Kade run loose and has a calming effect on Quinn. Working full time, volunteering in many organizations and finding time to enjoy the outdoors with the whole family, can be tough, but it is worth it!

For more information about the preserves and directions. 


Meet at the Hadlyme Ferry Parking lot on Ferry Rd, Lyme (not Old Lyme) We will begin the walk along the CT River. There is a gentle inclined pathway to get up to the Castle to see the beautiful view. We may get our feet wet.

Join Tori and family on the 4th Sunday of every month for a “mile-ish” hike geared towards families with children under 5, but no age limit!

Kindly email vharris1391@gmail.com to register.

Tori is a Mom of two littles – Kade, 4 yrs, and Quinn, 1 yr. Hiking and wandering in the local preserves, has really given her family the safe space to let Kade run loose and has a calming effect on Quinn. Working full time, volunteering in many organizations and finding time to enjoy the outdoors with the whole family, can be tough, but it is worth it!

For more information about the preserves and directions. 


Astronomy Observing Session

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Date: Fri August 22, 2025
Time: 8:30pm - 10:30pm
Place: Trail 53 Observatory
Contact Email: astronomy@lymelandtrust.org
!!! seems it only displays well the 2nd time? ugh.

Young or old, experienced, or totally unfamiliar, we look forward to exposing you to our uniquely dark skies here in Lyme. We have several different telescopes that are on display including a 14″ Schmidt-Cassegrain housed in a permanent observatory.

Registration required. Upon registration you will receive a link to directions and observing session guidelines.

For more information and to register: Astronomy Events


Young or old, experienced, or totally unfamiliar, we look forward to exposing you to our uniquely dark skies here in Lyme. We have several different telescopes that are on display including a 14″ Schmidt-Cassegrain housed in a permanent observatory.

Registration required. Upon registration you will receive a link to directions and observing session guidelines.

For more information and to register: Astronomy Events


Family Trail Time with Tori–Roaring Brook

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Date: Sun August 24, 2025
Time: 10:00 am
Place: Roaring Brook Preserve, Day Hill Rd, Lyme CT
Contact Email: vharris1391@gmail.com
Presenter: Tori Harris
!!! seems it only displays well the 2nd time? ugh.

Take a walk to the refreshing waters of Roaring Brook where you may get your feet wet.  Map of Roaring Brook Preserve.

Join Tori and family on the 4th Sunday of every month for a “mile-ish” hike geared towards families with children under 5, but no age limit!

Kindly email vharris1391@gmail.com to register.

Tori is a Mom of two littles – Kade, 4 yrs, and Quinn, 1 yr. Hiking and wandering in the local preserves, has really given her family the safe space to let Kade run loose and has a calming effect on Quinn. Working full time, volunteering in many organizations and finding time to enjoy the outdoors with the whole family, can be tough, but it is worth it!

For more information about the preserves and directions. 


Take a walk to the refreshing waters of Roaring Brook where you may get your feet wet.  Map of Roaring Brook Preserve.

Join Tori and family on the 4th Sunday of every month for a “mile-ish” hike geared towards families with children under 5, but no age limit!

Kindly email vharris1391@gmail.com to register.

Tori is a Mom of two littles – Kade, 4 yrs, and Quinn, 1 yr. Hiking and wandering in the local preserves, has really given her family the safe space to let Kade run loose and has a calming effect on Quinn. Working full time, volunteering in many organizations and finding time to enjoy the outdoors with the whole family, can be tough, but it is worth it!

For more information about the preserves and directions. 


Astronomy Observing Session

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Date: Fri September 19, 2025
Time: 7:30pm - 9:30pm
Place: Trail 53 Observatory
Contact Email: astronomy@lymelandtrust.org
!!! seems it only displays well the 2nd time? ugh.

Young or old, experienced, or totally unfamiliar, we look forward to exposing you to our uniquely dark skies here in Lyme. We have several different telescopes that are on display including a 14″ Schmidt-Cassegrain housed in a permanent observatory.

Registration required. Upon registration you will receive a link to directions and observing session guidelines.

For more information and to register: Astronomy Events


Young or old, experienced, or totally unfamiliar, we look forward to exposing you to our uniquely dark skies here in Lyme. We have several different telescopes that are on display including a 14″ Schmidt-Cassegrain housed in a permanent observatory.

Registration required. Upon registration you will receive a link to directions and observing session guidelines.

For more information and to register: Astronomy Events


Astronomy Observing Session

event image
Date: Fri October 17, 2025
Time: 6:30pm - 8:30pm
Place: Trail 53 Observatory
Contact Email: astronomy@lymelandtrust.org
!!! seems it only displays well the 2nd time? ugh.

Young or old, experienced, or totally unfamiliar, we look forward to exposing you to our uniquely dark skies here in Lyme. We have several different telescopes that are on display including a 14″ Schmidt-Cassegrain housed in a permanent observatory.

Registration required. Upon registration you will receive a link to directions and observing session guidelines.

For more information and to register: Astronomy Events


Young or old, experienced, or totally unfamiliar, we look forward to exposing you to our uniquely dark skies here in Lyme. We have several different telescopes that are on display including a 14″ Schmidt-Cassegrain housed in a permanent observatory.

Registration required. Upon registration you will receive a link to directions and observing session guidelines.

For more information and to register: Astronomy Events