Dear CLT Supporters and Friends,

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, we’re reflecting on the many ways our community has come together this fall to explore, learn, and appreciate Charlestown’s natural beauty. Thank you to everyone who joined us for our recent events—it’s been a wonderful season of connection, and we’re looking forward to what’s ahead.

So far this fall, we’ve enjoyed several guided walks exploring Charlestown’s ecosystems. At Mill Pond Preserve, foraging experts Laura and Ken Orabone led participants on a guided mushroom-identification walk. Heather Faubert, former director of the URI Plant Protection Clinic, shared her expertise on the plants and insects at the historic Amos Greene Farm. We also had a great time at our beloved S’mores Social—an evening hike followed by a campfire and s’mores. Thank you to everyone who joined us!

In October, we held our Annual Meeting at Kettle Pond Visitor Center to reflect on the past year and share updates on CLT’s ongoing work. We extend our heartfelt thanks to outgoing Board members Angela Brunetti, Kathie Gibson, and Bill McCusker for their years of dedicated service, and we’re delighted to welcome Amy Hecht as our newest Board member. Coming from Brooklyn, NY, Amy recently made Charlestown her full-time home and brings her talents as a graphic designer to our Development Committee.

Looking ahead, we still have a few opportunities this season to get outside and give back. CLT is once again taking part in the statewide “Litter-Free RI” initiative with a community cleanup at Charlestown Town Beach, and later this month, we’ll be #OptingOutside on the day after Thanksgiving for our post-holiday Turkey Trot at Patricia Sprague Forest Preserve.

As the holidays approach, we’re also celebrating with two special fundraisers. Our online auction returns in December with a wonderful selection of local gifts, experiences, and art—all in support of CLT’s conservation work. And new this year, join us for Pet Photos with Santa at Bend Studio during Charlestown’s Holiday Ramble—a festive way to support the Land Trust while capturing a fun holiday memory!

We’re so grateful to everyone who takes part in CLT’s work—whether you’re joining us for a cleanup, bidding in the auction, or enjoying a quiet walk at Mill Pond Preserve. Your involvement helps protect the lands, waters, and wildlife that make Charlestown special.

With gratitude,

All of us here at CLT

Please note that due to the government shutdown, we are temporarily unable to access our office phone line. For now, you can reach us by email at [email protected].

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Upcoming Events

Community Cleanup at Charlestown Town Beach ♻️

Annual Turkey Trot 🦃

Holiday Bazaar Fundraising Auction ❄️

We are gearing up for our 5th Annual Holiday Bazaar Fundraising Auction, and we’d love for you to be a part of it! This online auction, running from December 5th to December 8th, will feature unique items, services, and experiences donated by generous community members like you.

We’d be thrilled if you could donate an item, service, or experience to our auction! Your contribution is fully tax-deductible and helps us raise critical funds to continue our mission. If you are a business, we’d love to feature you as a sponsor on our auction homepage with your logo and website, as well as alongside your donated item.

To donate, please reach out to Kathan Teepe, our Executive Director, at [email protected]. We’d also be happy to arrange a pickup for your donation.

Charlestown Holiday Ramble: Pet Photo Shoot with Santa! 📸

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