Conserving land for all of Newtown
Open SpaceThe Conservation Commission acquires and preserves land for future generations.
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Plan of ConservationThe 2014 Plan includes Newtown's vision for conserving natural resources and open space.
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About the CommissionOur mission is to conserve and maintain Newtown's natural resources.
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Native Plant Policy for Newtown
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Follow-up Vegetation Study Completed at High Meadow
On September 7, 2021 a follow up vegetation survey was conducted in the High Meadow 5-acre test site at Fairfield Hills campus, Newtown.
Data collected for this 3-year study was compared to the initial vegetation study done in August of 2017. The report concluded that the meadow is becoming more biological diverse. Several plant species of high pollinator value have been identified.
Continued monitoring of invasive plants will be necessary. Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) is a particular concern along meadow edges. Often an overlooked infiltrator of meadow habitats, it has no value to pollinators or other wildlife. Mugwort crowds out beneficial plant species and also contributes to hay fever allergies.
Japanese Knotweed: A Growing Problem
Japanese knotweed, resembling bamboo, is a persistent plant spreading in Newtown and across the U.S., harming native vegetation and property values. It's native to Japan but now found in 42 states and eight Canadian provinces. Its extensive underground rhizomes enable rapid spread and even pavement penetration. While it's not visible year-round, its presence can significantly lower property values. Unlike the UK, the U.S. lacks legal protections for buyers of infested property. Controlling knotweed is possible, with some towns taking action. Newtown residents are urged to report infestations to help map the problem areas.
Newtown Pollinator Pathway
A continuous corridor of public and private lands Healthy habitat for bees, butterflies and other important pollinators.
Bee on it!
- Go Pesticide Free
- Include Native Plantings
- Reduce Your Lawn
- Leave Some Natural Areas
- Provide a Source of Clean Water
For more information on how to join the Newtown Pollinator Pathway, go to:
About the CommissionThe Newtown Conservation Commission is dedicated to the acquisition, preservation and protection of 2,000 acres of town-owned open space. In addition, the Commission is actively working to encourage healthy habitats and increase the diversity of our native wildlife and vegetation.
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Stay ConnectedNewtown Municipal Center
3 Primrose Street Newtown, CT 06470 (203) 270-4276 |