Introduction

The Scantic River Watershed Association, reestablished in 2002, has
recently completed a survey of the entire river from its origin in Stafford to the point where it joins the Connecticut River in East Windsor Hill. We are currently compiling the information and plan to publish a field guide in the near future; however in the meantime we wanted to publish this booklet to give you an overview and interest you in the Scantic River.

The Scantic River Watershed Association was originally started in 1972 by a group of concerned citizens to preserve and protect the natural resources of the river and surrounding watershed. After years of valuable service, SRWA dissolved and its assets were left to the Northern Connecticut Land Trust (NCLT) for safekeeping.

In 2002, NCLT felt the time was right to reintroduce SRWA to the region, fulfilling the role of watchdog and protector of the river and its environs. Although the SRWA operates separately from the NCLT the association is unique in that the Land Trust is able to purchase properties along the Scantic. Such an achievement has been accomplished in Somers where 47 acres have been procured and, with many hours of volunteer time, has been transformed into the “Scantic Riparian Area”.

The recent “River Walk Survey” found that there are many sections of
the Scantic that are blocked by fallen trees and debris, thus
making it difficult to navigate The main project for 2006 will
be to clean up these areas and hopefully make a “canoe trail”
along the river. Please feel free to contact us if you are
interested in working on this project.