To Shape The Future Of Connecticut

If you live in the country, you know the healing qualities of silence and space.

For many in Connecticut, the trails and land preserves around the densely populated state provide much-needed space and solitude to walk and think. For others, the signs of wildlife sharpens observation skills and provides teaching potential for families. Hunters and anglers know the joy of time spent in solitude with a goal in mind. Is there room enough for all of these pursuits?

Now CFPA, best known for its management of the blue-blazed hiking trail system in the state, will host the series of three roundtables, starting Friday, Feb. 12 at Holcomb Farm, West Granby, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Members of the public can help guide completion of Connecticut’s federally mandated Forest Resource Assessment and Strategy, and provide input to Connecticut’s Comprehensive Plan of Conservation and Development.

The Connecticut DEP, CFPA, along with those groups and professionals involved with forest issues, with sit down together for a series of roundtable discussions. (Open space and forests don’t just happen, they take work and planning at both the local and state levels.)

Admission to each session costs $21.50. Registration opens at 8:30 a.m. For information, call CFPA at (860)-346-2372.

On March 16, 2010, a final, statewide meeting will pull the local results together into a comprehensive set of vision and action statements for a working strategy to manage Connecticut’s forests. (Fee for this meeting is $25 and includes lunch.)

The Connecticut Division of Forestry and the U.S. Forest Service are among the many agencies and organizations that will use the results to guide policy, management, and financial decision making for the future.

“True silence is the rest of the mind, and is to the spirit what sleep is to the body, nourishment and refreshment.” - William Penn

Note: Cash (exact change) and check payments will also be accepted at the on site registration location at each roundtable.