In keeping with the mission and strategic goals of the GCT, the trustees are pleased to announce a recent collaboration with the Massachusetts Department of Game & Fish (MDF&G) in the acquisition of 37 acres south of Rte. 119 in Pepperell, adjacent to the Groton border.   Purchased from the  McCann family, the property provides a variety of habitats including mixed hardwood/conifer, shrub swamp, wooded hardwood swamp, deep marsh, and intermittent streams.  

Anne Gagnon of MDF&G approached the GCT requesting funds for a required land survey to carve off an existing house lot.   Along with other parties, the GCT quickly voted to provide funds that allowed the purchase to proceed on schedule. “We recognize that sometimes our goal of land conservation requires outreach beyond Groton’s borders,” said GCT vice-president Mark Gerath. “The trust did not hesitate to support MDF&G in this important acquisition.”

Throne Hill and the adjacent lands are one of three areas in Groton that the GCT believes are critical for protection as habitat and as migration corridors.   These adjacent parcels offer buffer and additional sanctuary for protected wildlife.

The GCT is currently working with MDF&G and others to protect another large property adjacent to the Throne complex in Groton.   This effort will likely require a substantial expenditure by the GCT and, if so, this could become one of our first fundraisers for a specific land purchase in many years. The GCT is excited about this possibility, so stayed tuned for more details.

Your support is crucial to our efforts in keeping critical habitats protected. Thank you for your membership and your partnership!