On October 4th WLCT hosted a Stewardship Forum at our signature property, Westport Woods. We volunteered to host after attending another Stewardship Forum facilitated by the Buzzards Bay Coalition this past spring. A large number of peer conservation organizations from the region gathered for meaningful lectures, open discussion, and networking opportunities. We were inspired, and the group was enthused to have another opportunity to learn together in the Fall.
Propagating Ideas
The Fall Stewardship Forum was decidedly focused on native grasslands, a topic becoming very popular amongst conservation organizations, and homeowners alike. Topics included site preparation, seed sourcing, equipment options and annual maintenance to name a few. The open discussion format allowed for individuals and organizations to share information about their own projects as well as the successes and challenges experienced along the way.
Geographic Representation
The forum was well attended, with over 40 folks making their way to Westport. We had representation spanning from Westerly, RI all the way out to Orleans on Cape Cod. In the weeks following the forum we’ve made new connections via phone and email, and the group continues to exchange information and inquire with each other about future projects.
We believe it is important to constantly be experimenting, learning, and evolving. Forums like this create that opportunity, and also create the ability to expand each organization’s reach beyond their communities.
Read more about WLCT’s approach to siting and managing grasslands in this blogpost.