House Republican Press Release

January 22, 2007

Press Office: 860-240-8700

REPRESENTATIVE FREY: BOND COMMISSION EXPECTED TO AUTHORIZE $470,000 TO SUPPORT REPAIR OF LOCAL DAM

State Rep. John H. Frey, R-Ridgefield, today said the State Bond Commission is expected to approve a $470,000 grant for the repair of the Woodcock Dam in Ridgefield. The funding item is on the Bond Commission’s agenda for Friday, January 26^th, when it meets at the State Capitol complex in Hartford. 

Woodcock dam is a state-owned dam, receiving this grant to enable repairs so Ridgefielders can again enjoy the dam without any significant risk to the public. The local dam is adjacent to the Woodcock Nature Center. The 146-acre-property features numerous walking and hiking trails. The Woodcock Nature Center has been a private non-profit source of nature and environmental education in Southwestern Connecticut since 1972.  The staff of the Center works with the local protected wildlife to serve as a resource for educating the community about our natural surroundings.

“Through the years, Woodcock dam has been a beautiful attraction for Ridgefield,” said Rep. Frey. “This funding allows for significant repairs to permit residents to once again make use of this wonderful resource. “

“I appreciate and thank Governor Rell for her continued support of this project. Her active assistance permits the dam to be restored and allows Ridgefield to showcase its natural splendor to attract more visitors to the area. The Woodcock Nature Center, through its programs, encourages a mutual respect for nature and with the restoration of this dam; the Center’s message is echoed.