The forest has changed over the past 300 years, affected by human activity and by natural disasters. Developments are steadily reducing the amount of forest in Connecticut, and researchers anticipate that climate change will lead to further changes to our forests.

Maintaining large areas of forest is no longer viewed as just a matter of aesthetics or economics. Preservationists now know that forests are essential for the overall health of the environment and of local and global ecosystems. By preserving contiguous parcels of forest land, government and private organizations and individuals can protect our forests, wildlife, and environment.