This Commission is concerned with the development and conservation of natural resources, including water resources, within the territorial limits of Canton.

Established in 1966 this commission was created to advise on development and conservation of Cantons natural resources.  Though the Commission has no regulatory powers, it does evaluate subdivision applications and make open space recommendations to the Planning and Zoning Commission to enhance passive recreation and address environmental concerns.

Collinsville Pollen Trail

Collinsville Pollen Trail (Collinsville, CT) is a community planting effort to build an extended native plant garden along a stretch of the former Central New England (CNE) railroad line. Planting for pollinators, planting for biodiversity, planting for birds, bringing wildlife back and creating a welcoming space for residents and visitors is our mission.

The project began several years ago with an impressive invasive plant management effort, headed by Canton resident, Karen Berger, along with Cherry Brook Garden Club and the UConn Extension Master Gardener Program. In March 2019, Eversource's Vegetation Management team supervised the clearing of the trail of trees to ensure electrical service to the area would not be compromised. While it was an abrupt change to the landscape, it created a blank canvas and set the stage for our collective vision. Click here for more information on invasive species.

With cooperation and assistance from Eversource and Canton Department of Public Works, neighbors joined together to research and plan for the first phase of planting which was completed in Fall 2019 with 31 native shrubs. Cherry Brook Garden Club members, local residents and Allen Place property owners planted dozens of perennial bulbs, mulched beds and broadcast thousands of milkweed seeds along the slope leading to the woods. 

The objective is to continue eradicating invasive plants and commit to only planting natives along Allen Place. We are planting for the future by successively filling in empty areas with native trees, pollinator-attracting shrubs and perennials, native sedges and grasses, bringing wildlife back to this unique section of trail treasured by many residents and visitors. Click here for more information.

Agendas, Minutes & Meeting dates

Invasive Species Resources

Right to Farm Ordinance

Natural Resources Inventory

Open Space Management Plan

Cannon Open Space Management Plan

Carpenter Open Space Management Plan

Connecticut Association of Conservation and Inland Wetlands Commission - CT Conservation Commission Handbook

Native Plant Policy