At the Dec. 11 meeting the Conservation Commission discussed a proposed communications budget to support outreach, events and potential grant-seeking.

Commissioners said they had held preliminary conversations about a speaker program and outreach materials. Tom and Anne reported they had contacted the library’s speaker program lead (Mikaela Porta), which indicated it could partner on conservation-themed events and potentially fund speaker fees and travel if the events have broad appeal. "If we bring speakers forward, proposed speakers work with them on what the event would be; they have the funding to pay speaker fees, travel expenses, and would be willing to meet us," a commissioner reported relaying the library’s position.

The commission discussed printing and direct-mail options, including a direct-mail flyer to every mailbox in town; one commissioner said there are roughly 7,000 households in New Canaan and staff will contact the post office and local land-trust mailing experts for postage and printing estimates. Digital updates to the town website were also discussed; commissioners noted they have access to update content and should be mindful of presentation and community sensibilities.

Separately, commissioners discussed pursuing grants and donor development; examples from neighboring towns (Ridgefield) were cited as evidence that larger state grants can be obtained, and the town does have a grant writer to work with on applications. The commission agreed to add grant funding as a line item on the next agenda and to compile a list of potential grant projects.