🌱Drought Conditions And CT Farmers + Learn About Indigenous People

Hello all. I'm back in your inbox this morning to walk you through everything you need to know about what's happening these days in town. Let's dive in.

First, today's weather:

Partly sunny and humid. High: 83 Low: 67.

Here are the top three stories today in Essex-Chester-Deep River:

1. The drought situation in Connecticut has become dire in some areas. According to a press release issued from the office of Governor Ned Lamont, the governor has announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture has designated New London and Windham counties as Primary natural disaster areas due to drought conditions and Hartford, Middlesex and Tolland counties have been designated as contiguous counties. Farmers in approved areas are eligible to apply for emergency loans due to production losses. This assistance includes FSA emergency loans. Farmers in eligible counties have eight months from the date of the declaration to apply for emergency loans. FSA considers each emergency loan application on its own merits, taking into account the extent of production losses on the farm and the security and repayment of the operator. Farmers interested in applying for the assistance must contact their local Farm Service Agency office."(Office of the Governor)
2. Would you like to learn more about the Indigenous people of the area? There will be a very special Indigenous Connecticut River Celebration held on September 17 from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. at the Connecticut River Museum in Essex. This free outdoor event will be centered on Indigenous arts, traditions, stories and language. Nehantic and Abenaki representatives will share personal stories Humble Spirits drum group Schaghticoke Tribal Dancer Jennifer Lee returns to present her wigwam and artifacts and there will be plenty of hands-on activities for everyone. Hope to see you there! (CT River Museum)
3. Mark your calendars for Thursday, September 15 at 5 p.m. for the Fern Ledge Hike & Happy Hour at Surfridge Brewery 252 Westbrook Road, Rt. 153. Park next to Middlesex Occupational Health Facility. According to Land Trust's Facebook post this is an opportunity to, "explore this expanded Essex Land Trust 20 acre preserve which sits astride the Essex-Westbrook town line and, after the recent purchase of 3 acres, now connects to Farm Hill Estates, four-acre plot in Ivoryton and Westbrook deeded to the land trust when a housing development was established along Carol Drive. With its steep terrain and high ledge overlooking a working farmer’s field, Fern Ledge has a unique place among Essex preserves. Trails wind through woodlands and among old stone walls, offering glimpses of Birch Millpond below. The planned hike will be followed by a drive to Surfridge Brewery for socializing (located at the former Witch Hazel factory, next to the Essex Steam Train)." Hope to see you there! (Essex Land Trust)

Today in Essex-Chester-Deep River:

• Walking Tour of Essex Village (5 p.m.)

From my notebook:

• Chester CT Historical Society: "Come see us at the Chester Fair this weekend in our little red building. It's full of new exhibits. Meanwhile, our Chester Museum at The Mill be closed for the weekend. You might also enjoy watching this old film of the Chester Fair." (Chester CT Historical Society via Facebook)
• Essex Library: "Informational meeting of Teen Advisory Board (gr. 7-12): September 14 at 4 p.m. Teens! Do you want a say in what YA books the library orders? Have some ideas for cool library programs? Help make the library a fun place for teens! " (Essex Library via Facebook)
• Deep River Public Library: "Calling all babies! Find out about the benefits of massage for your little one! Registration is required." (Deep River Public Library via Facebook)

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• Your CBD Store | SUNMED - Clinton! WISHLIST WEDNESDAY! (August 31)
• Concert and Dinner at Rettich Preserve (September 3)
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Alrighty, you're all good for today! I'll see you soon.

— Karena Garrity

About me: I am a native of Connecticut, who currently resides in the Tri-Town community of Chester, Deep River and Essex. I have been a community reporter for the better part of the past 20 years. I love my small town community and I am honored to be a part of Patch.com. You can reach me at; karena.garrity@patch.com.

Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming Essex-Chester-Deep River Daily? Contact me at karena.garrity@patch.com