Farmington Land Preserve Garners Large State Grant
FARMINGTON, CT — The Farmington Land Trust’s historic Wilcox-Bushley Homestead has secured a $250,000 boost from the State Bond Commission, according to a joint announcement from local legislators. The funds are earmarked for the on-site Environmental Learning Center and the land trust’s headquarters.
Located on Coppermine Road, the 24-acre preserve across from West District School serves as a hub for passive recreation and educational activities aimed at promoting land conservation and environmental stewardship. Originally donated by Mary and Ruth Bushley in 2013, the property traces its roots back to 1880 and holds significant historical value.
The legislative announcement was made by state Sen. Derek Slap, D-West Hartford; state Sen. Rick Lopes, D-New Britain; and state Rep. Mike Demicco, D-Farmington. The state funding will facilitate the completion of ongoing renovation projects and the continuous funding of educational programs designed to raise awareness about climate change mitigation and land preservation.
Slap emphasized the educational benefits: “The Farmington Land Trust is a true asset to Farmington and the Greater Hartford community, and I am thrilled they will receive these funds. With this funding for their educational programs, the Land Trust can continue to educate local youth about the importance of land preservation and being conscious stewards of our environment.”
Demicco highlighted the dual impact of historical preservation and educational enhancement: “This project will not only preserve an important piece of local history but will expand our environmental education programming to inspire more youth across the region to appreciate and protect our natural spaces.”
Farmington Land Trust officials expressed their gratitude. “We are truly delighted to receive such generous funding from the State of Connecticut for the Wilcox-Bushley Homestead Environmental Learning Center,” said Francie Brown Holmes, president of the Farmington Land Trust Board. “These funds will allow us to expand our outreach to the Greater Hartford region and increase access to nature and environmental education.”
Thank you to our sponsor, Farmington Storage, located at 155 Scott Swamp Road, Farmington, CT. Contact them at 860.777.4001 for your storage needs.
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