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Preston CAC advances Mary‑Dora Woodlands projects and community conservation activities
Summary
The Preston Conservation and Agricultural Commission reported progress on Mary‑Dora Woodlands Phase 2 trail signage and plant inventory, discussed Phase 3 planning and invasive Russian olive removal, and weighed partnerships to distribute Pollinator Pathway signs ahead of community events and the Thursday Farmer's Market schedule.
The Preston Conservation and Agricultural Commission on April 27 reviewed progress on several land‑management and community outreach efforts at Mary‑Dora Woodlands and elsewhere in town.
Chairman Gary Piszczek said Phase 2 work at Mary‑Dora Woodlands is underway: trail signage and a plant inventory are in progress, the parking lot has been cleared, and pollinator and habitat areas still need to be identified. The Connecticut Forest & Park Association provided trail maps to assist CFPA trail marking and signage work.
The commission discussed next steps for a proposed Phase 3 of improvements at Mary‑Dora Woodlands and planned a targeted removal of invasive Russian olive; commissioners debated timing, with Piszczek suggesting fall removal and Commissioner Ray Offenbacher recommending late summer for cutting and stump treatment.
Commissioners also reviewed community outreach and events: Pollinator Pathway signs remain from earlier purchases (a few sold at the Scarecrow Festival) and Rebecca Hayes proposed partnering with the Garden Club to identify candidate gardens for sign placement. Piszczek reported the commission’s Farmer’s Market will be held on Thursdays and include band entertainment and other activities. He also reported a successful Osprey nest installation and credited CAC and Norwich Lumber for assistance.
On funding and grants, Piszczek said Amos Lake Association’s grant application status was uncertain and he would follow up if the grant is awarded. The commission noted an Aquarion Water Company grant opportunity with a May 8 deadline among its communications.
The commission approved the March 23, 2026 minutes by motion of Lynwood Crary, seconded by Matthew Snurkowski. The meeting adjourned at 7:41 p.m.
