GOAL:
Preserve Connecticut's cultural heritage.

OBJECTIVE:
Adopt cultural heritage preservation as an element in state and local planning and development processes.

STATUS & TRENDS:
Land settlement patterns and development pressures will continue to threaten and destroy the State's archeological and historic sites worthy of preservation. On July 1, 1987, the Connecticut General Assembly approved An Act Creating a Statewide Heritage Park System which focused on cities having significant historical and cultural attributes that could be incorporated into a statewide preservation system. The Thames Estuary (New London/ Groton), Norwalk, Willimantic and Windsor Locks Canal sites were identified as having significant potential; feasibility studies and development planning were undertaken. A master plan was completed for Fort Griswold State Park and one is in process for Putnam Memorial State Park. In 1990, Weir Farm in Ridgefield was incorporated into the National Park System as the State's first National Historic Site, after acquisition by the State. Currently under study by the National Park Service is the Quinebaug-Shetucket River corridor; this project's goal is to preserve the rural and mill village character of Northeastern Connecticut including its agricultural heritage. Also underway is a project to preserve the Cream Hill School, the first agricultural school in the United States, through relocation and restoration at the C onnecticut Antique Machinery Museum site in Kent.

STRATEGIES:

1. Establish and develop the Thames Estuary, Norwalk, Willimantic, and Windsor Locks Canal sites as part of the State Heritage Park Program.
2. Continue site feasibility studies and development planning for those other communities identified as having potential to be included within a State Heritage Park System.
3. Prepare comprehensive management plans for those state-owned lands and buildings determined to have historical and cultural significance.
4. Encourage private restoration and program development reflecting the State's heritage.
5. Promote and encourage the preservation of Connecticut's agricultural heritage.
6. Develop an outreach program between State, local and private historical organizations to coordinate preservation efforts.
7. Encourage participation of vocational and professional societies in the implementation of a cultural heritage management program.
8. Acquire unique historical and cultural sites under the Natural Area Trust Program.
9. Preserve existing hydropower facilities on Connecticut's rivers, including dams and generating facilities.