In 2003-2004, with the help of Terry D’Alton and the Trust for Public Land, the land trust raised about $1 million from major grants and donor contributions to buy the 197-acre north parcel of the Kent School property on Skiff Mountain. The land straddles the Kent/Sharon border. It was a huge achievement for a small land trust.
The property is home to rare and endangered birds and flora and fauna. It has three meadows, hardwood forest and a rare 34-acre red spruce swamp. It is surrounded by large tracts of protected property. It also has trails (somewhat overgrown) which are used by local residents and horse riders from the Kent School. Last year we announced an effort to restore a blueberry patch on the property. That effort was completed - sapling trees removed, brush and undergrowth cleared, and blueberry bushes pruned and rehabilitated.
This year we hired Hunter Brawley, a noted local environmentalist, to conduct an in-depth study, mapping, and a management plan for the preserve. He will be working with Laurie Doss from the Marvelwood School who has been monitoring bird sightings on the property for several years. The Audubon may also be involved in this study. Hunter’s plan is due to be completed by the end of the year.
The purpose of this project is first to fully understand what actually exists in the very diverse ecosystems of the property. Then to have a long-range plan to protect, maintain and improve the preserve as well as to make it more accessible to local residents. This last objective would include a parking area, signage and extended trail systems. This effort is major.
