The problem: Early successional habitats (such as grassland and shrubland), essential for plant and animal species adapted to open, sunlit conditions, have become rare. About half of Johnson Farm features these habitats, but they are threatened by invasive species. At the same time, the forested half of the preserve is suffering from both invasives in the understory, and from beech tree mortality due to diseases.

Project plan: Over a three-year period, we will be treating invasives, conducting selective canopy thinning, encouraging new growth of desired native species, and planting seeds/seedlings of others. We will be monitoring and documenting all phases of the project. Check below for updates and announcements.

November 2025: Stewards will be thinning out the shrubland areas in the northern half of Stand #3 (see map).

December 2025: Clearing begins in the northern half of Stand #3. Heavy machinery will be used. Some trails will be closed.

Excavation work is happening through December 17th

To see the project’s pictures, you can grab the image and slide to the right or left. You can also click on the arrows that are on the right or left sides of the picture.

Help Support the Project

In addition to our grant from the Connecticut Land Conservation Council and the many volunteer hours put in by our stewards, ELT will need considerable funds to realize our vision. Please consider donating to support the project!