The Norwalk Land Trust (NLT) and Aspetuck Land Trust (ALT) have announced a strategic merger that will expand resources, expertise, and capacity to protect and care for Norwalk’s open spaces for generations to come. Under the agreement, Norwalk Land Trust will become part of Aspetuck Land Trust, one of Connecticut’s largest and most accomplished regional conservation organizations. 

Like many small, all-volunteer land trusts, NLT has faced challenges including limited resources, fundraising pressures, and the growing complexity of conservation work. Joining with the larger, professionally staffed ALT ensures that Norwalk’s natural areas will benefit from stronger stewardship, deeper community engagement, and long-term sustainability. 

“This merger is about securing the future of land conservation in Norwalk,” said Lisa Shanahan, NLT Board President. “ALT brings ten full-time staff, decades of expertise, and a proven track record in protecting land and connecting people to nature. Together, we’ll be able to do more, and do it better — forever.” 

ALT Board President Bill Kraekel added:

“Aspetuck Land Trust has always taken a regional approach to conservation. Welcoming Norwalk into our network is a natural extension of our mission.” 

As part of the merger, ALT will hire a dedicated staff member to oversee NLT’s 33 properties, totaling 110 acres, and manage signature programs - including the beloved Farm Creek Education Program, which each year introduces Norwalk fourth graders to the ecology of the Farm Creek salt marsh in Rowayton. 

David Brant, ALT Executive Director, noted that the merger aligns with ALT’s Green Corridor 2030 Initiative, a long-term strategy to connect and protect natural areas across the region: “We’re honored that Norwalk Land Trust chose to join this larger vision. By thinking beyond town borders, we can create a connected, sustainable regional landscape that supports both people and wildlife.” 

Amy Blaymore Paterson, Executive Director of the Connecticut Land Conservation Council, praised the collaboration:

“This merger shows the power of a shared vision. Thanks to support from our Advanced Collaboration and Merger Assistance Program, funded by the Peter and Carmen Lucia Buck Foundation, these two organizations are now positioned to achieve even greater conservation impact in Southwest Connecticut.” 

Read more here:  Land trusts unite for conservation, preservation by Cassandra Day, CT Post