Welcome to Waterford Land Trust

With every step you take on Waterford’s lands and shores, you are acknowledging the thoughtfulness and foresight of other town residents who have gone before you and made a decisive gesture to preserve the the environment and the character of our town.

OUR MISSION: We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and protecting the natural resources of the Town of Waterford, Connecticut: land, water, plants and animals, as well unique scenic and historic sites.

We manage the properties we acquire for the benefit of the public for educational, recreational, conservation and scientific purposes, as well as for their historic value. Donors may give outright or discounted gifts of land or other assets, or may grant us conservation easements while still holding title.

Founded in 1974 as the West Farms Land Trust (WFLT) we are now called the Waterford Land Trust.  As the 48th land trust in Connecticut, it was formed by local residents striving to preserve the natural charm of the undeveloped lands and irreplaceable resources of Waterford and Montville.

The original name is rooted in local history. During the 17th and 18th centuries, “West Farms” was the term used for the land now known as Waterford. The center of the colony was situated where New London now stands. The farm land and wood lots, given by English grants to early settlers were west of the colony’s center; hence the name West Farms.

Fitch’s Pond Tract – Path through Mountain Laurels