 | | | Thanks to you, we’ve had an incredible year at Steep Rock. We acquired new properties, blazed new trails, reduced ecological threats, monitored wildlife populations, provided over 3,400 pounds of fresh vegetables to neighbors in need, expanded our conservation efforts in Washington and the Litchfield Hills, offered dozens of programs and events for our community, and made many, many new friends. We are truly indebted to you. You funded our projects, volunteered your time, energy, and expertise, provided us goods and services, and graced us with your enthusiastic presence at many events. In recognition of all our generous donors, I hope you’ll take a moment to view our 2022 Gratitude Report. On behalf of all of us at Steep Rock, thank you for your contributions to our success. We wish you a happy and healthy holiday season and a year of abundance in 2023. See you on our trails… Brian Hagenbuch, Ph.D.
Executive Director | | | | | | Volunteer Spotlight This month, we celebrate all our volunteers for their amazing contributions to Steep Rock. In 2022, we had 217 volunteers (a record) log a total of 3,311 hours (another record). Two "super" volunteers logged over 200 hours each! Our dedicated volunteers contributed 1,615 hours to Judea Garden, growing and distributing organic vegetables to food banks and those in need. Trail managers and work parties logged 1,128 hours to keep our trails open, remove invasive species, monitor our preserves, and build the new Boulders Trail. Volunteer community scientists spent 422 hours monitoring nest boxes, counting pollinators, and catching dragonflies and damselflies. Volunteers spent 100 hours tabling at our events and spreading the good news about Steep Rock as well as 46 hours helping in the office. We also recognize our wonderful team of Trustees and Committee members who spend countless hours contributing their knowledge and experience to ensure our organizational success. We are truly indebted and thankful for the spirit of volunteerism within the Steep Rock Community. See the list of volunteers in our Gratitude Report and please thank them for their efforts. | | | | | | | | Winter Saunter
Dec. 7, 9:30am Join Steep Rock Executive Director Brian Hagenbuch and retired Flanders Nature Center Executive Director, Arthur Milnor, for an easy to moderate casual walk in Steep Rock Preserve. A great opportunity to get outside, observe what’s happening in the natural world, learn something new and maybe even meet new friends. These hikes are not just for seniors. All are welcome! For info and registration >more | | | | Holiday in the Depot
Dec. 9, 5:45pm-8:30pm Join us for Washington’s Annual Holiday in the Depot on Friday, December 9th! Organized by Washington Parks and Recreation and the Washington Business Association, this annual event is not to be missed. Stop by the Steep Rock Association table for bird seed ornament kits! For more information >more | | | | Christmas Bird Count
Dec. 18, 10:00am - 12:00pm Your eyes, ears, and enthusiasm are needed to collect data for the nation’s longest-running community science bird project, Audubon’s 123rd Christmas Bird Count. Everyone from seasoned ornithologists to first-time birders, individuals to families with children are welcome to participate in this special holiday activity. Join us on a 1 ½-mile winter birding excursion through the diverse habitats of Macricostas Preserve. For info and registration >more | | | | Winter Solstice Celebration
Dec. 21, 5:00pm Join us as we celebrate by the firepit behind Steep Rock House. The winter solstice is the moment in the year when Earth is tilted as far away from the sun as it will be all year. This is the day with the shortest daylight all year. Join us to bid farewell to shorter days and welcome increasing daylight. We will gather and celebrate with warm refreshments and friends around the fire! For info and registration >more | | | | | | | | | | Honor or remember someone special by making a gift in their name. | | | |  | Steep Rock Association
PO Box 279, Washington Depot, Connecticut 06794
860-868-9131 • info@steeprockassoc.org | | | | | | | | | |
