Friends of Bennett's Pond Organization Established
On September 19, 2002, a new, non-profit organization called "Friends of Bennett’s Pond" was incorporated. An application for charitable 501(c) (3) status has been filed with the IRS for this new association that will be dedicated to the preservation and protection of the Bennett’s Pond property. This new organization will share some officers and members with ROSA, but will be a wholly independent organization with a separate mission. ROSA will continue in a broader role as an advocate for open space preservation and protection of our region’s natural heritage.

Friends of Bennett’s Pond will focus on protection of the 458-acre property and facilitating public access and enjoyment. Some of our short-term and long-term plans include:

• Maintenance of trails and bridges
• Creation of a public parking area
• Restoration of 8-acre field/meadow habitat north of the old Fox Hill Inn site
• Creation of a 5-acre arboretum with interpretive signage
• Restoration of root cellar, gazebo and stone walls on Bennett’s Farm Road
• Protection of the 100+ acre Bennett’s Pond wetland system as wildlife habitat

First project
Friends of Bennett’s Pond is currently working in cooperation with the Ridgefield Conservation Commission to restore an 8-acre field/meadow habitat which has become overgrown with invasive species such as barberry and multiflora rose. Field habitat is increasingly rare in Connecticut, and provides important nesting and breeding areas for many Connecticut songbirds. It is our hope that a successful restoration will encourage nesting of these declining species on the property, and create significant bird watching opportunities for the public. Numerous Connecticut DEP experts have been consulted on the field restoration project, and the initial mowing of the field will take place in mid-November.

When the property is conveyed to the State, the organization will continue its activities under the jurisdiction of the State DEP.

Fundraising event planned
On Sunday, January 26, 2003, a "Friends of Bennett’s Pond" benefit event will be held at the Community Center. Invitations to this event will be mailed in December.