Community Corner

Farmington Land Trust To Improve River Access In Unionville

The trust recently received a major piece of funding to help it plan to build a new fishing deck off the Farmington River in town.

The Farmington Land Trust recently received funding to help it plan for improved fishing and public access to a section of the Farmington River in Unionville.
The Farmington Land Trust recently received funding to help it plan for improved fishing and public access to a section of the Farmington River in Unionville. (Farmington Land Trust)

Farmington Land Trust

FARMINGTON, CT — A local land trust has garnered a significant slice of funding that will soon pay for a new location for folks to fish and admire the Farmington River.

The Farmington Land Trust announced Monday it has received a $20,000 grant from the Richard P. Garmany Fund at the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving.

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This will be utilized for the planning phase of the "Accessible Fishing Pier" project in Unionville, focusing on the removal of the existing pier, the restoration of the riverbank, and the creation of an accessible viewing platform.

The current fishing pier, located on the Farmington River, has deteriorated due to frequent flooding, making it unsafe and inaccessible.

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The trust has been working with the Lower Farmington River and Salmon Brook Wild & Scenic organization to create a plan for the project.

This grant marks a significant step forward in the Farmington Land Trust’s commitment to ensuring everyone can safely enjoy the natural beauty of the river.

“The existing fishing pier has fallen into disrepair due to the effects of flooding at the site. It is important to the Farmington Land Trust to create a safe access area for all of the community to enjoy the natural beauty of the wild and scenic-designated Farmington River in Unionville," said Cate Grady-Benson, executive director of the Farmington Land Trust, in a statement.

"We are so grateful to the Garmany Foundation for their continued support of the Farmington Land Trust's mission.”

In the future, the Douglas Mount Fishing Pier will be easily accessed off of Railroad Avenue in
Unionville or from the parking area off of River Road, ensuring it remains a cherished spot for fishing and nature observation for years to come.

To contribute to the Farmington Land Trust's mission of land conservation, contact them at office@farmingtonlandtrust.org.

For more information on the Farmington Land Trust, click on this link.

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