Connected Taconics: Project Update

by Tim Duclos, Conservation Ecologist - Special Projects

In recent Ridgelines, you have likely read about MFFC’s efforts to inspire landowners in the conservation of the 42,000-acre forest block located between the towns of Rupert, Dorset, Manchester, Arlington and Sandgate. If not, see the the Spring 2019 and Summer 2021 Ridgelines at merckforest.org.

Thanks to support from the High Meadows Fund, Merck Forest is continuing work beyond its borders to advocate for, and bring awareness toward, the need for intact forests and connected landscapes in the Taconic to Green Mountain corridor. This season we are offering free 1:1 landowner consultations, workshops, and are further enriching our online presence- Connectedtaconics.org- with new resources, citizen science opportunities, interactive maps, and stories of demonstrative land management efforts and exploration within the block. We are also initiating a camera trap study of animal movements at suspected wildlife crossing hotspots- areas where this block connects with its neighbors.

If you live within the forest block and would like to receive a free consult with a natural resource professional, please visit the Connectedtaconics.org. We are also seeking landowners willing to host a game camera on their lands abutting route(s) 315, 30, 7A, and 313 at select locations. If you are interested in becoming involved, we would love to hear from you: Email tim@merckforest.org.