Community Members And Climate Groups Seek Protections For The 422-Acre Urban Forest
February 14, 2024
Contact: Bianca Sanchez, bianca.sanchez@sierraclub.org
BRIDGEPORT, CT. – Today, local community members, climate activists, and elected officials gathered to show love for Remington Woods, an urban forest in Fairfield County. Over 2,300 people have signed a Sierra Club Connecticut petition supporting protections for the much-loved nature site right in the heart of Bridgeport. Together, activists, local decision-makers, and other neighbors — including Aspetuck Land Trust, City of Bridgeport Office of Sustainability, Save the Sound and State Representative Joe Gresko — delivered the signatures to the office of Corteva, Remington Wood’s owner.
The 422-acre forest is the only such forest in the local area, earning it the title Fairfield’s Last Lung. Home to a thriving ecosystem and a wealth of outdoor respites for local families and residents, Remington Woods has endless potential as a community green space and needs preservation. The forest helps to address historic environmental injustices, boost climate resiliency, and provide increased access to a fundamental human right — clean air.
Previously, Corteva announced its intent to develop the woods into a business park. However, in 2023, Corteva expressed renewed interest in a conservation approach to the land. Supporters of a protected Remington Woods, including Representative Gresko and Conservation Outreach Manager with Aspetuck Land Trust Reginald Fortcolin, spoke at the petition delivery to further encourage Corteva to engage the public in decision-making and to commit to a conservation solution. With ensured protections, Remington Woods can remain a vital ecological, recreational, and cultural resource to the Bridgeport community.
Following the petition delivery, community groups and local decision makers issued the following statements:
“Remington Woods is an environmental treasure and must be preserved for future generations to enjoy,” said Senator Richard Blumenthal. “We only have one chance to save land from development and I hope the owners of Remington Woods do the right thing for the Bridgeport community and the environment.”
“Remington Woods is more than trees; it's a love letter to our community's health, joy, and environmental harmony,” said Jhoni Ada, Community Organizer, Sierra Club Connecticut. “By preserving this precious resource, Corteva can invest in the future of our community and join our shared commitment to sustainability and stewardship.”