Community Corner

At the Sheep Farm, Not A Lamb In Sight, But Myriad Flora, Fauna

Colonial-Era Farm, Now An Open Space Preserve

Just in time for spring, the ancient, historic, 63-acre site known as the Sheep Farm on Hazelnut Road in Groton, will open to the public.

The farm is intended to be used for what's called "passive recreation" or low-impact activities like walks in the woods that respect the natural environment.

The property was recently bought and cleaned-up by the Groton Open Space Association, and it offers a window into Colonial farm life. The space includes evidence of an 17th century grist mill, stone walls and stone animal pens, as well as unique geographic features including soon-to-be rejuvenated vernal pools.

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“Spring . . . couldn’t be a better time to invite (the community) to explore the Sheep Farm,” said Association President Joan Smith.

With the help of a bridge loan from a Virginia-based conservation fund, the association was able to demolish buildings, and clean the area of lead and asbestos in short order.

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Crews removed miles of rusted fencing and an old fuel tank, and demolished dilapidated buildings including a barn, children’s playhouse and chicken coop. With the exception of skilled abatement and demolition workers, volunteers handled most of the clean-up and trash removal.

“The whole community has helped us do this," Smith said. "…donations, support, volunteers and so many experts volunteering their time.”

Last fall, the state Department of Environmental Protection awarded the association $534,300 from the Open Space and Watershed Land Acquisition Grant Program and $82,200 from the Long Island Sound Fund. The total covered about three-quarters of the cost of the site. Private donations picked up the rest.

The Department of Environmental Protection  described the site as a “rugged, yet ecologically sensitive, property” that the association has saved from developments, including a proposed 34-lot residential subdivision.

The site is prized for its mountain laurel forest and meadows, pools, brooks and waterfall.  Rich and diverse wetlands that support myriad flora and fauna, and with its proximity to existing protected wetlands and open spaces including Bluff Point and Haley Farm State Park. And it’s wildlife: hawks and owls; salamanders and rare snails; red fox and bobcats.

On April 14, the association will hold its annual Celebration of Open Spaces event featuring music, dinner auction. For more information on events, the Sheep Farm and relevant conservation news and events check out its website at gosaonline.com.

Groton Open Space Association, a local land conservation group, “played key roles” in preserving Haley Farm State Park and Bluff Point State Park and Coastal Reserve. All these lands are open for public use.




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