Please join us in expanding public access on the New Haven River. With your support, we can add 14.7 acres to the Bristol Flats River Access Park for permanent floodplain protection, revegetation, and public access.
- Protect water quality. This property floods almost yearly, and its floodplain vegetation actively filters and stores sediment, nutrients and organic matter from upstream sources. The revegetating floodplain forest slows the velocity of flood waters and reduces erosion during high-water events. Because it isn’t planted in crops, less soil and nutrients are washed downstream during flood events. Town acquisition of these 14.7 acres will ensure that the newly-established riparian forest is protected.
- Expand public access to the New Haven River. Once acquired, this property will be forever protected for public access. These lands will be merged with Bristol Flats River Access to the north – a day-use area that provides a point of entry to the New Haven River for fishing, kayaking/canoeing, bird-watching, horse-back riding, walking, and recreating. Together, the parcels comprise 54 acres of floodplain forest and 3,800 feet of frontage along the New Haven River.
- Enhance wildlife corridors. Once acquired, the vital riparian habitat for birds, amphibians and mammals will be managed for and enhanced.
Please join us in realizing these goals by donating to the acquisition of the 14.7 acres of easement lands. We only need $5,000 – and your contribution will be matched by a $5,000 donation from the Bristol Conservation Reserve Fund, together providing local match for grant funds secured from the Vermont Housing & Conservation Board.