What have we been doing this year?
Bringing Back Natural Habitats
GOSA continues tackling invasive plants such as Japanese Knotweed and Bittersweet vine on all our properties, and working to encourage the growth of native habitats. After removing more than an acre of knotweed at the corner of Flanders Rd and Rt 1, this year we planted 140 native trees and shrubs along with native grasses and wildflowers. In 2026, we are planning a major project to restore 8 overgrown acres by the parking area at Sheep Farm North.
Thanks to the Kitchings Family Foundation for grant funding, to volunteers from Pfizer and the crew of submarine U.S.S. Arizona for their help, and to Groton Parks and Recreation for providing water.
Getting Kids Outdoors
For three years and counting, GOSA volunteers have been leading hikes for every kindergarten, first, second, and third grade class in the Groton Public School system, and for the Groton Parks and Rec summer camps. GOSA further supports this continued partnership by supplementing funds for school buses for transporting the students. In 2025, volunteers led 17 hikes, getting 927 kids out into nature.
Every child who goes on a hike with GOSA gets a sticker!
Keeping Trails in Shape
Trail maintenance and improvements are an ongoing task for the GOSA Stewardship Crew. In 2025, the crew made a major improvement with the installation of a new bridge at the Larchmont Circle entrance to Candlewood Ridge to replace a deteriorated narrow bridge and boardwalk. The new bridge meets our standards of 4’ width with railings on both sides offering better safety and accessibility.
What is the latest with the New Center Groton Preserve? Is it open?
GOSA’s surveyor, Steven Marien, made an interesting discovery as he worked on the survey for the Center Groton Preserve. This nearly 90-acre property, which is a part of the Haley family and acquired by GOSA in November 2023, apparently lacked authoritative surveying over the centuries. Mr. Marien following the deeds as far back as the 17th century, and found omissions, errors, a phantom property, and a deed missing 25 acres. His concerted efforts led us to delay mapping, laying out trails, and formally opening the property to the public. Stay tuned for more to come on an official opening.
An Appeal to Our Members
The findings at Center Groton Preserve will take time and money to legally resolve these mapping discrepancies and establish clear boundaries. The outcome will afford GOSA a connection with Candlewood Ridge and Avery Farm to the east resulting in more than 500 contiguous acres of fields and woodlands that will be preserved intact, and enormous gains for wildlife. While we have been successful in receiving grants for many of our projects, very few institutions give grants for legal and survey expenses. Your help in this endeavor is greatly appreciated.