Co-sponsored by the Branford Land Trust and the Branford Historical Society
Help kick off the Jarvis Creek Farm Salt Marsh Migration and Restoration Project! The Branford Land Trust is sponsoring this series of FREE, fun & educational activities for all ages to learn about the importance of salt marshes, starting with “Our Salt Marshes and the History of Salt Haymaking in New England Marshes,” a presentation by Shaun Roche Visitor Services Manager at U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) at the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge. The presentation, co-sponsored by the Branford Historical Society, will be held on Monday, July 28, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the Blackstone Memorial Library (758 Main Street, Branford).
Did you know…the Branford Land Trust preserves many acres of salt marsh that protect our coastal communities from increased flooding due to climate-related sea level rise? They also provide important habitat for native species like Purple Martins, a Species of Special Concern here in Connecticut.
A salt marsh is a tract of land located between the ocean mud flats and the grassy upland. It is subject to flooding by the tides twice daily. The salt marsh ecosystem has one of the highest productivity and biomass per square yard of any ecosystems in the world. Salt marsh grass has a nutritional value for livestock that is much higher than that of normal hay.
Shaun will describe the marshes’ crucial habitat for unique species before telling the stories and sharing historic images of thrifty colonial farmers who toiled there to produce the sustainable fodder for their livestock.
Click below to learn about this and other upcoming Salt Marsh Celebration events!
