Volunteers Needed to Clear Invasive Species at Haddam's Field Park

The following press release was provided by Scott Brookes:

Field Park was established in the mid-1880s by four Field brothers, each making significant contributions nationally and/or internationally for their work.  The park was established as “a gathering place for the people of Haddam.” It is a hidden treasure to the town. Field Park is a non-profit run by The Village Park Society of Haddam, which has a volunteer Board of Directors, but the park benefits all of Haddam’s residents. 

Donations to the park are greatly appreciated. Send to The Village Park Society of Haddam, P.O. Box 272, Haddam, CT 06438.

VOLUNTEERS

Meet at the entrance to Field Park which is located on the west side of Rt. 154 behind the Haddam Town Hall, just south of Hayden Hill Road and Thankful Arnold House. Park up on the hill along Field Park Drive. 

Wear appropriate clothing for working in the woods for clearing brush, old woody vines, and small trees. Wear gloves and sturdy shoes. Hand saws, loppers and pruners will be helpful. We already have two experienced chain saw operators. One more experienced and competent chain saw operator may be helpful.

For more information contact Scott Brookes at 860-682-3132 or email Martha McLaud Tonucci at mclaudtonucci@sbcglobal.net.

The impetus for recent Field Park renovations has been the inspiration of Daria Thompson who is terminally ill with cancer. Because of her energy an inventory of trees has been undertaken by two members of the Connecticut Botanical Society, Ed Richardson and Martha McLaud Tonucci. On this 9+ acre parcel there are 10 Notable Trees that are now registered in a Connecticut Notable tree registry. New tree identification signs made of cedar wood are being made by Gerry Matthews; some of the signs are already in place. A self-guiding brochure is available for visitors; they are located in map box near the parking area at the top of the hill. 

A new American chestnut tree, dedicated to Daria, has recently been planted, with assistance of Ballek’s Garden Center who donated their time to plant the tree.  Several more trees and shrubs of various species will be planted in the spring. Scott Brookes, President of The Village Park Society Board of Directors, has overseen the recent renovations and proposed clearing of invasive species. 

Please visit the park and enjoy its hidden treasures. Bring your children for an enjoyable walk and perhaps bring a brown bag lunch. But please, take out what you bring in and avoid littering. If you find litter, please pick it up. It is requested that your self-guiding maps are returned to the map box for others to use.

HOPE TO SEE YOU ON OCTOBER 5 FOR OUR FIRST CLEAN-UP DAY. THANKS YOU!