Discussion: Tree clearing in The Preserve Register

Date and Time:
Sat, Mar 21, 2026; 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM  (Eastern)

Organized By: Shoreline Group

Location: 60 Old Boston Post Rd, Old Saybrook, CT 06475, USA

Map | Directions

Event Organizers:
Jeffrey Gross
   jcgoss8@gmail.com
   860 208 8266
Susan Petit
   horse5879@gmail.com

We are at a critical point in our effort to actually preserve The Preserve!

Connecticut DEEP’s Final Forest Management Plan for The Preserve State Forest has just been signed by Old Saybrook leadership and the State. It is now urgent to try to steer what and how much will be done to disturb this unique coastal forest, to its trails, to its endangered species, and to its future as a haven for hikers on two legs or four.

The plan posted to the State’s website: Forest Management Plan calls for active logging across all but two protected core areas over the next 30 years. Almost all of The Preserve will be affected. This means woods trails will be turned into logging roads, stream crossings installed for heavy equipment, and infrastructure expanded that threatens water, soils, and wildlife habitat. The plan does not acknowledge, nor does it include input from our years of comments regarding DEEP’s proposal. But the state is moving ahead on an Operational Plan that starts with the heart of the forest.

As you are likely aware, The Preserve is Connecticut’s largest remaining intact coastal forest and wetland system: 1000 acres in Old Saybrook with smaller tracts in Essex and Westbrook. It is jointly owned by Old Saybrook and CT DEEP, with a conservation easement held by The Nature Conservancy and the northern portion owned by the Essex Land Trust. This biodiversity gem is unique and ecologically vulnerable: home to 43 wetlands, 38 vernal pools, and documented habitat for more than 25 species of amphibians and reptiles, 30 species of mammals, and 57 species of birds. Many are threatened or endangered species.

This discussion will be lead by Lea Sloan and Judy Preston of the Preserve Protection Alliance, a group of concerned citizens who want to keep others informed about DEEP’s plans, and make sure DEEP hears our input, and responds. The Preserve is an intact forest that could be irreparably damaged by the proposed logging, consequent introduction of invasive species, and road infrastructure construction.