What We Do

With the mission statement as a guide, the Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park focuses its efforts in three areas: conservation, education, and recreation.  The Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park:

Protects and Conserves Significant Lands.

The area's sandy soils support wild blue lupine, the Karner blue butterfly's host plant. Photo credit: Kate Marcos

Working with partners to leverage resources, the Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park protects and conserves lands of ecological and recreational value.

Maintains and Recovers Imperiled Wildlife Species.
Wildlife populations whose long-term survival is threatened are at the heart of science-based habitat restoration and management activities.  As habitat for the endangered Karner blue butterfly is restored, other at-risk species like the state-threatened frosted elfin butterfly and Blanding’s turtle also benefit.

All of these species depend on the area’s sandy soils, the early successional habitat, and/or the low wetland areas.  The habitat restoration and management work for the Karner blue butterfly benefits all of these species.

Dozens of free public programs are scheduled each year. Photo credit: Sarah Clarkin

Educates the General Public, Children, Groups.

Programs and guided interpretive walks are offered throughout the year.  Education focuses on the local environment and is designed to increase awareness, knowledge, and appreciation of the natural environment.  There are programs for the young and the young at heart.  The Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park believes that environmental education will benefit future generations.

Offers and Sponsors Recreational Opportunities.
The Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park is paradise for those who enjoy muscle-powered outdoor activities.  With thousands of acres and over twelve miles of maintained trails, there are many ways to experience and enjoy the forest, field, savannah, and wetland systems.