Funding supports ADA-accessible entry, ecological enhancements, and expanded learning opportunities at a key Darien natural area.

The Darien Land Trust has received a $100,000 grant from The Darien Foundation to advance the Olson Woods & Piacentini Preserve Access Initiative. The initiative aims to increase public access to the 16-acre preserve, strengthen environmental stewardship, and create opportunities for community engagement. Located along the Noroton River, the Olson Woods and Piacentini Preserve (OWPP)—the Darien Land Trust’s second-largest publicly accessible property—features native habitat, abundant wildlife, and mature woodlands.

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L-R Ward Glassmeyer, Chair of the Board of The Darien Foundation; Rob Farley, Director on the Board of The Darien Foundation; Stefanie Desai, Director on the Board of The Darien Foundation; Amy Sarbinowski, President of the Board of the Darien Land Trust; Sarah Woodberry, Executive Director of The Darien Foundation; Elizabeth Mathus, Executive Director of the Darien Land Trust; John O’Brien, Treasurer of the Darien Land Trust. Photo Credit: Katharine Calderwood/Calderwood Photography calderwoodphotography.com

Planned Improvements

The grant will support upgrades that enhance access, improve ecological health, and promote outdoor education, such as:

• A new ADA-accessible parking area off Hoyt Street and an expanded trailhead with maps and benches
• Tree identification markers and educational signage
• New native tree and shrub plantings to improve habitat quality
• Nesting boxes for owls, bluebirds, and bats; trail cameras

These improvements will help transform OWPP into a more welcoming, and enjoyable natural resource for students, scouts, hikers, and all who value open space.

“This generous grant allows us to open the gates to a spectacular natural resource that’s been hidden from view,” said Amy Sarbinowski, President of the Board of the Darien Land Trust. “We’re immensely grateful to The Darien Foundation for supporting an initiative that will allow more people to enjoy the wildlife and tranquility of Olson Woods and Piacentini Preserve.”

“Although I grew up in Darien, I hadn’t visited the Olson Woods and Piacentini Preserve until last year,” said Ward Glassmeyer, Chair of the Board of The Darien Foundation. “We’re thrilled to partner with the Darien Land Trust to enhance this protected space so that it will be more accessible and welcoming.”

About the Darien Land Trust

The Darien Land Trust preserves and protects land in perpetuity, connects the community with nature and promotes conservation awareness. The organization, established in 1956, is a 501(c)(3), is not affiliated with the town of Darien and stewards over 230 acres across 87 properties.

darienlandtrust.org

About The Darien Foundation

The Darien Foundation is a community-based 501(c)(3) public charity that funds technology and capital projects benefiting Darien, CT. Since 1998, it has awarded more than $7 million in grants supporting youth, public safety, and quality-of-life initiatives.

darienfoundation.org

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“This generous grant allows us to open the gates to a spectacular natural resource that’s been hidden from public view,” said Amy Sarbinowski, President of the Board of the Darien Land Trust.