To the Editor:

The Newtown Forest Association's position on the High Meadow parcel found at Fairfield Hills is that it should remain intact, undisturbed and managed as a wildlife preserve. We recognize the importance of ensuring its preservation and management and the possibility it may become a living part of this memorial effort is one we support.

The High Meadow area of Fairfield Hills is a natural wildlife habitat for endangered species of mi-grating song birds. It's one of our best, wild, wonderful and scenic spots and we feel it needs to be preserved in its natural state. It can be a testament to our community's sensitivity as a natural place for healing and quiet reflection.

The meadows and grassland habitat found here have already been noted by the State of Connecticut regionally and by local natural resource professionals as significant for preservation in their natural state. It has also been studied and recognized by our own conservation officials as a valuable piece of town open space at Fairfield Hills for wildlife and passive recreation.

We feel it's important we all share in helping to preserve this special place in its natural state and managing it for future generations while honoring those we have lost. Let the healing power of nature be an integral part of this planned memorial by preserving the High Meadow as the special place it already is.

Warm Regards,

Bob Eckenrode

On behalf of the NFA

Board of Directors

PO Box 213, Newtown         February 21, 2016