Highstead in Redding

Friday, 04 June 2010 00:00

A sanctuary founded in 1982 by Mr. and Mrs. James Dudley of Redding continues to flourish as a place to study the woodland habitat and the native species. It has expanded its mission to include ecology andconservation studies across a larger area. The property is open to members who may participate in programs or use the research materials available in the timber-frame barn headquarters. The barn also houses a space for lectures and exhibits, the arboretum office, a workshop and a propagation greenhouse. The herbarium has more than 1000 specimens and the reference library contains more than 900 volumes.

On the grounds are the native tree and shrub collection, the laurel collection, azalea collection, and sweet pepperbush collection. One of Highstead's study projects is assessing the effect of white-tailed deer on the landscape and assessing the effects of hunting on deer populations. Highstead's 2011 Open House & Trails Day will be Saturday, June 11, with a guest lecture on "Coyote at the Kitchen Door: Living with Wildlife in Suburbia." Visitors may make an appointment to take a self-guided tour Monday through Friday, 8:30 to 4. Membership fees begin at $25.

Details

Highstead is at 127 Lonetown Road (Route 107) in Redding, the second driveway on the left after the Redding Country Club. To make an appointment to visit, call 203-938-8809. For more information, visit www.highsteadarboretum.org.