On June 4, 2003, The Salem Land Trust purchased its first fee property from Bruno and Norma Anhert. This unique 6-acre parcel teems with microhabitats for a great diversity of small wildlife. The property was purchased with donations from Salem residents, grants from the CT DEEP Open Space and Watershed Grant Fund and The Nature Conservancy.
The property is crossed by Big Brook, a tributary to the East Branch of the Eightmile River. While small is size, the parcel is remarkable for its varied wildlife habitats including riverine, riparian, fresh water spring-fed marsh, pond, meadow, early succession forest, vernal pool, Red Maple wooded swamp, and upland mature forest, all on 6 acres. The stream water is clean, clear, and supports native Brook Trout.
Currently, there are no hiking trails, though intrepid visitors are welcome to visit and stroll, with easy access from the road. Dogs are allowed on leashes, no hunting or motorized vehicles.
DIRECTIONS: Park at 480 Hartford Road
From Salem Roundabout, north on Hartford Rd. (Route 85) for approximately 2 1/4 miles. The Preserve parking is on right-hand side just south of where the road crosses Big Brook.
Ahnert Preserve
The Ahnert Preserve- 6 acres
On June 4, 2003, The Salem Land Trust purchased its first fee property from Bruno and Norma Anhert. This unique 6-acre parcel teems with microhabitats for a great diversity of small wildlife. The property was purchased with donations from Salem residents, grants from the CT DEEP Open Space and Watershed Grant Fund and The Nature Conservancy.
The property is crossed by Big Brook, a tributary to the East Branch of the Eightmile River. While small is size, the parcel is remarkable for its varied wildlife habitats including riverine, riparian, fresh water spring-fed marsh, pond, meadow, early succession forest, vernal pool, Red Maple wooded swamp, and upland mature forest, all on 6 acres. The stream water is clean, clear, and supports native Brook Trout.
Currently, there are no hiking trails, though intrepid visitors are welcome to visit and stroll, with easy access from the road. Dogs are allowed on leashes, no hunting or motorized vehicles.
DIRECTIONS: Park at 480 Hartford Road
From Salem Roundabout, north on Hartford Rd. (Route 85) for approximately 2 1/4 miles. The Preserve parking is on right-hand side just south of where the road crosses Big Brook.