Newtown Forest Association (NFA) has formally announced the acquisition of approximately 49.4 acres of conserved land from The Nature Conservancy of Connecticut at Shepaug Dam Preserve in Sandy Hook along Walnut Tree Hill Road. The newly acquired parcel is open to the public immediately for passive recreation.

Shepaug Dam Preserve is adjacent to NFA’s Knotts Preserve, expanding a contiguous block of protected open space in the region. The preserve offers scenic views of Lake Lillinonah and provides direct access to the Al’s Trail network, further enhancing recreational and educational opportunities for the community.

The acquisition reflects a long-standing partnership between NFA and The Nature Conservancy to achieve more community-based stewardship of ecologically valuable habitats.

Sarah Pellegrino, land protection director of The Nature Conservancy in Connecticut, said NFA is “a natural fit as the new caretaker of the Shepaug Dam Preserve, given the group’s dedication to nature in our state and its existing preserve connected to this land.

“Throughout our years of partnership, we’ve explored a vision of community-based stewardship for Shepaug. We are excited to see that vision come to life and for the parcel to benefit from local knowledge and relationships,” she added.

The property’s diverse landscape and strategic location contribute to regional conservation goals while offering residents and visitors expanded access to trails, lake views, and passive recreation.

NFA Executive Director Trent McCann said as far as open space preservation goes, “this property really checks all our boxes.

“There are through-hiking connections for passive recreation, watershed protection along the Housatonic River, and ample wildlife habitat all preserved in this corridor of protected land. We are thrilled to bring this preserve under the stewardship of the NFA and extend our appreciation to the folks at The Nature Conservancy for helping us realize this long term vision.”

With this acquisition, NFA now stewards over 1,600 acres of open space in Newtown and continues its mission to protect open space, promote responsible public access, and foster a deeper connection between the community and the natural environment.

For more information about Shepaug Dam Preserve or NFA’s preserves and trail system, visit newtownforestassociation.org.