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CALL TO ACTION
Since January 2023, when DEEP proposed to shut down the center following Beth Bernard's departure and CFPA's decision not to renew their contract with Goodwin, The Friends have rallied to keep the center open. While the facility has remained accessible for several days per week, programming is inconsistent, attendance has declined and the sense of community has eroded. Currently, Mike Ross, state education coordinator at Dinosaur State Park, serves as the acting director. He visits the center once or twice a month to train seasonal workers. However, these workers are temporary and once their hours are completed, they will be replaced by new staff. DEEP's stated goal is to appoint a director for Goodwin. Given the current budget climate, the likelihood of hiring a full-time director remains uncertain. In 2023, DEEP established a partnership program that requested proposals from businesses and nonprofits to work with the state to improve resources for visitors. The Last Green Valley (TLGV) submitted a proposal to move their headquarters to Goodwin and to support the conservation center in the process. (Their updated submission is in the right side bar. It includes short and long-term plans which would offer many attractive amenities.) Over the past year and a half, we have strongly advocated for DEEP to partner with TLGV to ensure consistent programing and staffing at the Goodwin Conservation Center. In August 2024, we met with Representative Pat Boyd, TLGV, and DEEP, and at that time the state indicated a willingness to work with us to advance the proposal. However, at our most recent meeting in April 2025, we were told that DEEP now requires an additional three months to decide whether or not they want to establish a partnership with TLGV. We thank Rep. Boyd for his dedication and invaluable contributions to bring DEEP Parks to the table. Parks' interest in running the center should not preclude a partnership with The Last Green Valley, which we firmly believe would enhance educational and recreational opportunities while increasing visibility for Northeastern Connecticut. Your support is crucial as we navigate this pivotal moment. Please consider reaching out to the following individuals to express your support for the TLGV proposal: Katie Dykes, DEEP Commissioner. [email protected] Brian Wilson, Division Director, State Parks & Public Outreach, DEEP [email protected] Chris Shepard. Assistant to Deputy Commissioner [email protected] Mike Lambert, Bureau Chief, Outdoor Recreation, DEEP [email protected] Lori Brant, Public Outreach Office Director, DEEP [email protected] Governor's office : Constituent Services Consider cc'ing Representative Pat Boyd [email protected] |
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