Who are we?

Our quality of life in Madison is closely linked to our natural environment, a rich legacy of our rural past. Today, this green and historic character is threatened as our town's population swells and puts ever greater pressure on a dwindling land resource. Our open spaces need looking after. That's what the Madison Land Conservation Trust is here to do. The MLCT is a private, non-profit corporation of individuals in Madison. Our role concerns the big picture - the preservation of rural character in our town. But preservation goes beyond community aesthetics. For example: wetlands - both saltwater and freshwater - are life support systems for so many plant and animal species; trees are vital to air quality; and significant areas of open space are needed by songbirds in order to breed successfully. Without the Land Trust, critical acreage easily taken for granted might never be identified and protected.

About our work

As of 2006, the Trust protects more than 1600 acres of woodlands and wetlands, fragile and vital habitats which might otherwise have been consumed by development or misuse. You've probably seen our small signs posted in nooks and crannies around town-perhaps even in your own backyard. We obtain land through donations, bequests, and, if the situation warrants it, purchase. As caretakers of a wide variety of ecosystems, the Trust is often utilized as an education resource by Madison schools, area universities and the Department of Environmental Protection. We may be best known for the system of blue-blazed trails that the Trust maintains throughout Madison. These trails not only afford Madison residents the opportunity to experience nature in close proximity, but also to visit historic sites, such as the Paper Mill on the Hammonassett River or the old Iron Works near Guilford. Hikes are regularly held on these trails. We are, essentially, stewards, or caretakers, of Madison's open space. Our job as owners of the precious lands is to preserve them in their natural state for the public, and for the plants and animals which live there. On a grassroots level, many members actively participate in our Stewardship Program, carefully watching over MLCT properties to ensure that they remain pristine. Forests and tidelands know no boundaries. Because the MLCT recognizes the importance of regional land preservation, we worked with neighboring Land Trusts on everything from hikes to land purchases. For example, we worked with the Middlesex Land Trust to purchase the Mica Ledges, an important 100-acre area spanning the Madison-Durham border. This is the first cooperative effort of its kind in the state.

The Lay of The Land

As a member, you will receive a year's subscription to The Lay of The Land, our periodic newsletter, where you'll be sure to hear about upcoming hikes, programs and opportunities to become actively involved, something critical to the success of our work. We'll also send you a window decal for your car to let others know that you care about the natural heritage of the town, and the region, where you live. If you're interested in becoming actively involved, we have a spot for you. From working outdoors on trails, stewardship and events, to helping with paperwork, mailings and communications volunteer opportunities are endless, always outnumbering available volunteers! And no experience is necessary - just a willingness to help out, meet other dedicated people and have fun.

Join us in helping to preserve the marshlands, woodlands, swamps and fields that are our town's most valuable resource. These lands mean the difference between existing and thriving for all who live here now-and for generations to come. Join us!