101 Marchant Road, Redding, CT, 06896

(203) 938-2117

OUR Purpose

More than 50 years ago, actress and environmentalist Carmen Mathews had a dream for the land she loved. She wanted her 102 acres of pastures, woodlands, and wetlands to serve as an oasis where people of all ages could connect with the natural world. Carmen began by inviting urban youth to a summer camp. Building on this initial small and personal summer program, New Pond Farm Education Center opened its doors in 1985. Since then, it has evolved into a comprehensive environmental teaching facility with a model working farm. It offers many school programs and classes for children, teens, adults, and families.

OUR MISSION

We inspire and educate each generation to become stewards of the land by championing conservation and sustainable farming practices to protect and preserve our natural world.

Our Vision

We are an idyllic and dynamic learning environment where all communities can be immersed in our woodlands, wetlands, meadows, and pastures. By fostering awareness, appreciation, and respect for our natural world, we encourage every generation to steward, protect and enjoy the Earth.

OUR VALUES

EDUCATION

We are all about education! One of the most successful facets of our educational outreach is our work with area schools. Over 5,000 children visit the Education Center each year for hands-on field trips that bring their classroom studies to life. Our programs connect them to the natural world and promote scientific inquiry. Our seasonal calendars are filled with inspirational activities for children, adults, teens, and families throughout the year. Our programs focus on five areas: the environment, agriculture, local history, science, and the arts.

STEWARDSHIP

The practice of responsible and sustainable environmental stewardship of the land defines us; this includes the management of our woodlands, wetlands, and small working farm. We share our knowledge and love of nature with all who come and visit so they, too, will become good stewards. Our most powerful lessons emerge through our example of ecological responsibility. Together with the Redding Land Trust, which has a conservation easement over a portion of our property, we seek to protect the beauty of this land for future generations.

Community

Community is at the heart of everything we do. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff welcomes our members and visitors, introducing them to our property’s many wonders and offerings. We prize collaboration with local schools and neighboring organizations and businesses. We honor our heritage by sharing the long history of our area’s inhabitants, including the Eastern Woodland Indians and the colonial settlers.

rEGENERATION

Our property is a haven of peace and beauty. Here, young and old alike can recharge in a serene and pleasing environment. Our members and visitors are invited to enjoy the tranquility of the open spaces, rolling pastures, and surrounding hillsides.