Bill Flynn of the New Canaan Nature Center presented a plan to build a new native-seed propagation greenhouse on town-owned nature-center property, outlining how the structure would support habitat-restoration work, education and community giveaways of locally propagated plants.

Flynn told the Conservation Commission the project fits a three-phase approach: (1) the new greenhouse adjacent to the herb cottage, (2) an education building to support preschool classrooms and programming, and (3) work to address the existing 1982 greenhouse later. He said the greenhouse manufacturer example shown in his slides is a prefabricated model; the project’s all-in cost is currently estimated at about $350,000 and the center already holds a $200,000 grant and plans to use its capital-improvement fund to cover the remainder. Flynn emphasized that the nature center is not asking for town operating dollars for construction and that the town will retain ownership of the building if approved.

On methods and goals, Flynn described a native-first land-management approach developed with Larry Weiner Associates, including chemical-free invasive removal, the use of goats and mechanical mulching where appropriate, solarization and seed harvest and propagation. He said the greenhouse will allow the center to propagate genetically local seed stock, run demonstrations and provide community giveaways in spring to promote pollinator gardens across New Canaan.

Commissioners asked about permitting, accessibility and timing. Flynn said he hired Keith Simpson to prepare construction documents and navigate planning and zoning approvals; the plans include an ADA walkway from the upper parking lot. He described procurement logistics and a 6–12 month lead time for the prefabricated greenhouse after order, and set a target of the 2027 growing season for first full operations. Flynn also estimated at least one part‑time staff position would be needed to manage the greenhouse once operational.

Flynn asked for the commission’s support on promotion, community outreach and, where appropriate, assistance connecting with town processes. He also described ongoing ecological-survey work (with Frank Gallo) and use of iNaturalist to document species on the property; those baseline surveys will help measure restoration outcomes.

What’s next: Flynn said he will present to the board of selectmen and the planning/zoning bodies as part of the formal approvals process; the commission offered to help promote the initiative and to participate in educational events and site planning as requested.