By Janet McMahon
As Greenwich Land Trust (GLT) celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2026, we reflect not only on how far we’ve come, but also on how we can best care for the land entrusted to us for the next 50 years. One of the most important ways we do that is through native habitat restoration—and this year, we will be tackling three major restoration projects on some of our most special preserves: Shell Island, Ross Meadow at Converse Brook Preserve, and Duck Pond Hill.
So, what exactly is native habitat restoration, and why does it matter?
Native habitat restoration is the process of helping land recover from stress caused by invasive plants, overabundant deer, and human disturbance. By removing harmful non-native species and replanting vegetation that naturally belongs here, we can restore healthy ecosystems that support birds, pollinators, and other wildlife. Native plants also help clean our water, stabilize soil, reduce flooding, and make landscapes more resilient to climate change. In short, restoring native habitats helps protect the natural systems that quietly support our community every day.
Here’s a closer look at the three restoration projects across Greenwich.
Shell Island
Shell Island is truly one of a kind. It is GLT’s only island preserve teeming both with ecological potential and historic interest. Located just offshore in Captain Harbor, this 5.23-acre island includes forest, grassland, and dune habitats that are critical for coastal wildlife.
Over time, invasive plant species—many originally introduced as landscaping—spread aggressively, crowding out native vegetation and degrading habitat quality. As a result, wildlife lost valuable nesting and foraging areas. This spring, thanks to a generous grant from the Long Island Sound Futures Fund and matching support from Belle Haven Yacht Club, the Town of Greenwich, and SoundWaters, a comprehensive restoration project will begin.
The work will focus on removing invasive plants and reestablishing native coastal forests, grasslands, and dune vegetation. These improvements will strengthen the island’s natural defenses against erosion and storms while creating healthier habitat for priority bird species, native pollinators, and other wildlife that depend on coastal environments.
Ross Meadow at Converse Brook Preserve
If you haven’t yet visited Converse Brook Preserve, consider this your invitation! Located just off Cherry Valley Road in Greenwich’s backcountry, this 80-acre preserve is a favorite among hikers and nature lovers. Within it lies Ross Meadow, a native wildflower meadow created in memory of longtime GLT supporters and volunteers Nancy and Bill Ross.
Situated near the parking area, Ross Meadow has become a seasonal showstopper. For the past three years, it has burst into bloom with native wildflowers, drawing pollinators and delighting visitors. Now, thanks to the generosity of thoughtful donors and friends of Bill and Nancy Ross, the meadow will grow even more vibrant. Over the next few years, the existing native meadow will be expanded by an additional acre and further enhanced to support wildlife.
Native meadows like Ross Meadow provide essential food and shelter for bees, butterflies, birds, and other species, while also requiring fewer long-term management needs. With careful preparation already underway, this spring marks the start of a transformation that will result in one of the most lush and colorful native wildflower meadows in Greenwich—and permanently protected for future generations!
Duck Pond Hill
Duck Pond Hill is a 12-acre preserve in Greenwich’s midcountry, characterized by forest, meadow, and wetland habitats. This project focuses on restoring balance in areas that have been heavily impacted by invasive plants and overbrowsing deer.
With support from a grant from the Connecticut Land Conservation Council, restoration efforts will include planting native trees and shrubs within a fenced deer exclosure—an area designed to protect young plants while forests regenerate. Smaller exclosures will also be added nearby, along with improvements to an existing wet meadow.
This spring, GLT will plant a diverse mix of regionally native trees, shrubs, and wildflowers. These efforts will create healthier forests and meadows that can better support wildlife, withstand environmental stress, and grow stronger over time.
These three restoration projects will unfold over the coming years, and while the changes may take time, their impact will be lasting. We invite the community to learn more about these projects, and join us as we continue caring for Greenwich’s open spaces—one habitat at a time. Be sure to like, share and follow us on our social media accounts on Facebook (@GLTRUST) and/or Instagram (@greenwichlandtrust) for exciting updates on these restoration projects and more!
