Anguilla Brook Northern Headwaters Restoration
The Eastern Connecticut Conservation District (ECCD) and Avalonia Land Conservancy (ALC) are working together, with support from the USDA Forest Service and CT DEEP, to restore the Anguilla Brook Northern Headwaters Preserve in Stonington and North Stonington. This 64-acre preserve includes wetlands, forests, and streams at the headwaters of Anguilla Brook, which flows to Wequetequock Cove and Long Island Sound. It is also home to a rare Atlantic white cedar swamp, a critical habitat type in Connecticut.
Project Goals
Remove invasive plants along the brook and in wetlands
Plant native trees, shrubs, and groundcovers to stabilize soils and protect water quality
Expand and enhance Atlantic white cedar swamp habitat
Improve climate resilience, flood protection, and wildlife habitat
What is a Riparian Buffer?
Riparian buffers are strips of trees, shrubs, and other vegetation planted along streams and wetlands. They act as natural filters, improving water quality, reducing erosion, cooling streams, and creating vital wildlife corridors.
Why Atlantic White Cedar Swamps Matter
Atlantic white cedar swamps are rare in Connecticut and provide essential ecosystem services:
Filter and clean water
Store and slowly release floodwaters
Sequester carbon in organic soils
Provide habitat for unique plants and animals
Community Involvement
This project includes opportunities for volunteers to take part in invasive species removal, planting days, and long-term stewardship.
Upcoming Events:
Anguilla Brook Restoration Volunteer Days
October 18, 21, 25 & 28
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Intersection of Minor Pentway & North Anguilla Road, Stonington, CT
Register here:
Anguilla Brook Restoration Volunteer Days – Eventbrite
Project Partner: Avalonia Land Conservancy
The Avalonia Land Conservancy is a nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving natural habitats across southeastern Connecticut for the benefit of people and wildlife. With over 4,500 acres preserved in 45 towns, Avalonia protects forests, wetlands, meadows, and coastal ecosystems that form the foundation of a healthy environment.
ECCD is proud to partner with Avalonia on the Anguilla Brook Northern Headwaters Restoration Project, combining resources and expertise to restore riparian and wetland habitats, improve water quality, and enhance the ecological health of the Anguilla Brook watershed.
To learn more about Avalonia’s conservation work and the ongoing restoration along Anguilla Brook, visit:
Avalonia Land Conservancy
Restoration Work Along Anguilla Brook Continues
Acknowledgments
This project is made possible with funding from the USDA Forest Service, administered by CT DEEP, and through the stewardship and partnership of Avalonia Land Conservancy.