Aton Forest closed on the 60.5 acre Burnell property inholding on Tuesday, May 7th. This project was initiated decades ago by Frank Egler himself and we are happy for these long term efforts to finally come to fruition! With this new addition Aton Forest is comprised of over 1250 contiguous protected acres in the northern hill country of Connecticut. Acquisition of the Burnell parcel was critical in preventing the possibility of development from penetrating the heart of the preserve. Not only is it strategically placed, but ecologically significant. The parcel lies uphill from Knox Swamp, home of a number of important species, and also hosts a tributary of Sandy Brook for the length of the property. A trail has already began to be cleared following an abandoned logging road through the parcel ending at the stream.
This purchase was made with the help of the Norcross Wildlife Foundation, who provided an interest-free bridge loan. Aton Forest is currently raising funds to pay off this loan within the allotted year. See map below for an idea of how the new property fits into the preserve:
