Smith Richardson Wildlife Preserve and Christmas Tree Farm

For Connecticut residents, finding a local spot that seamlessly blends natural beauty, ecological preservation, and even a cherished holiday tradition is a rare treat. The Smith Richardson Wildlife Preserve and Christmas Tree Farm in Westport, CT, is precisely such a place. Managed by the Connecticut Audubon Society, this unique property offers a diverse landscape that serves as a vital habitat for wildlife while also providing a beloved seasonal experience for families: the opportunity to cut their own Christmas tree. It's a testament to thoughtful land stewardship and community engagement, truly a gem in the heart of coastal Connecticut.

The Smith Richardson Wildlife Preserve encompasses approximately 75 acres, featuring a 12-acre Christmas tree plantation alongside a 36-acre evergreen plantation and a 14-acre field habitat. This combination creates a varied ecosystem that supports a wide array of birds, insects, and mammals. Originally a Christmas tree farm, the land was generously gifted to the Connecticut Audubon Society, which has since dedicated itself to restoring and enhancing its ecological value. This includes ambitious projects to remove invasive plants and introduce native species, transforming areas into rich coastal forests, shrublands, and pollinator meadows. These ongoing restoration efforts highlight a commitment to preserving sensitive wildlife in what is otherwise a significantly developed area.

While some visitors might note that parts can be "a bit overgrown in summer," reflecting its wilder, natural state, the preserve offers a genuine experience of immersion in nature. Its relatively "small" size for a nature preserve doesn't diminish its ecological importance or its recreational value. It's a place where you can take a peaceful walk, observe migratory songbirds, or simply find a moment of quiet reflection, even being "just off the highway." During the holiday season, it transforms into a bustling hub of festive activity, inviting families to participate in the joyous tradition of selecting and cutting their own Christmas tree, with proceeds supporting the conservation efforts of the Connecticut Audubon Society – a truly "great cause."

The Smith Richardson Wildlife Preserve and Christmas Tree Farm is located at 1-19 Sasco Creek Rd, Westport, CT 06880, USA. Its location offers excellent accessibility for residents throughout Fairfield County and beyond. For those traveling by car, the preserve is conveniently situated just off I-95. If coming from the south, take Exit 18, turn left at the end of the ramp, then left again onto Route 1 (Post Road). From there, precise directions would involve turning right onto Greens Farms Road and then a right onto Sasco Creek Road. If coming from the north on I-95, take Exit 18, turn right at the end of the ramp, and then proceed as above. The farm is typically located about 0.1 miles down Sasco Creek Road on the left.

While the address is on Sasco Creek Road, it's important to note that access may vary depending on the season and specific activities. During the Christmas tree farm season, there will be clear signage and staff to guide visitors for parking and tree selection. For general preserve visits outside of the Christmas tree season, visitors should look for designated parking areas that allow access to the walking paths. Given its setting, personal vehicle transportation is the most practical way to reach the preserve, allowing visitors the flexibility to explore at their leisure.

Services Offered:

• Nature Preserve Access: Year-round public access to the wildlife preserve for passive recreation such as walking, birdwatching, and enjoying nature.
• Christmas Tree Farm (Seasonal): During the holiday season (typically late November through December 23rd), visitors can cut their own Douglas Fir, White Spruce, and Blue Spruce trees.
• Pre-Cut Trees (Seasonal): The farm also offers pre-cut Fraser Fir, Canaan Fir, and Balsam Fir trees for convenience during the holiday season.
• Gift Shop (Seasonal): A seasonal gift shop offers a variety of holiday items including wreaths, roping, tree stands, decorations, swags, and firewood bundles.
• Conservation Programs: The preserve actively participates in ecological restoration, including invasive species removal and native plant reintroduction, contributing to local biodiversity.
• Educational Opportunities: The Connecticut Audubon Society may host occasional walks or events that educate visitors about the preserve's ecology and conservation efforts.
• Tree Wrapping: During the Christmas tree season, tree wrapping services are available to assist customers with transporting their chosen tree.

Features / Highlights:

• Dual-Purpose Land Use: A unique combination of a thriving wildlife preserve and a functioning Christmas tree farm, showcasing how human activity can coexist with environmental stewardship.
• Important Bird Habitat: The preserve is a vital area for breeding birds, migratory songbirds, and other avian species. Active monitoring and restoration projects aim to enhance its value as a bird haven.
• Ecological Restoration in Progress: Visitors have the opportunity to see firsthand a significant habitat restoration project, where invasive plants are being replaced with native species, transforming the landscape for greater biodiversity.
• Beautiful Christmas Trees: The farm offers a variety of high-quality cut-your-own and pre-cut Christmas trees, known for their freshness and beauty, making it a beloved annual tradition for many families.
• Proceeds Support Conservation: All proceeds from the Christmas tree farm directly benefit the conservation work of the Connecticut Audubon Society, allowing visitors to contribute to a "great cause" while enjoying the holiday spirit.
• Varied Habitats: The 75-acre sanctuary includes a diverse mix of habitats, from Christmas tree plantations to evergreen plantations and open fields, providing a rich environment for various species.
• Community Engagement: The farm and preserve foster a strong connection with the local community, encouraging participation in both holiday traditions and ongoing conservation efforts.

Promotions or Special Offers:

As a nature preserve and a seasonal Christmas tree farm whose proceeds benefit conservation, the Smith Richardson Wildlife Preserve and Christmas Tree Farm does not typically offer traditional commercial promotions. Their main "offer" is the unique experience of cutting your own fresh Christmas tree, knowing that your purchase directly supports the vital work of the Connecticut Audubon Society. During the Christmas tree season, pricing for trees is usually set per foot or by type, and gift shop items are available for purchase. For general visits to the wildlife preserve outside of the tree farm season, access is typically free. Any special events, such as guided walks, workshops, or volunteer days, would be advertised through the Connecticut Audubon Society's official channels, often requiring pre-registration or a small fee to cover materials or expertise.

Contact Information:

Address: 1-19 Sasco Creek Rd, Westport, CT 06880, USA

Phone: (203) 259-6305

Mobile Phone: +1 203-259-6305

For specific inquiries regarding Christmas tree farm hours, available tree types, gift shop offerings, or details about visiting the wildlife preserve, it is best to contact the Connecticut Audubon Society at the provided phone number. They can also provide information on any planned events or volunteer opportunities related to the preserve's conservation efforts.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Connecticut residents, the Smith Richardson Wildlife Preserve and Christmas Tree Farm offers a remarkable blend of year-round natural enjoyment and cherished seasonal festivities, making it an incredibly suitable and valuable local resource. Its dual identity as a crucial wildlife habitat and a beloved Christmas tree farm means it serves diverse community needs, from providing a serene escape into nature to fostering a joyous holiday tradition.

Throughout the year, locals can benefit from the preserve's quiet "nature walks," offering a peaceful respite and opportunities for birdwatching and connecting with the local ecosystem. The ongoing habitat restoration projects are a testament to Connecticut's commitment to environmental stewardship, providing a unique educational aspect for visitors. Then, as the holiday season approaches, the farm transforms into a festive destination where families can participate in the heartwarming tradition of cutting their own Christmas tree, knowing that their contribution directly supports vital conservation work. This cyclical relationship between recreation and conservation creates a deep sense of community pride and engagement. For any Connecticut resident seeking to embrace both the natural beauty of their state and the joy of local traditions, the Smith Richardson Wildlife Preserve and Christmas Tree Farm is an essential and enriching destination.

Smith Richardson Wildlife Preserve and Christmas Tree Farm

1-19 Sasco Creek Rd, Westport, CT 06880, USA