Connecticut Advocacy
From clean air and water to public health and a strong economy, Connecticut’s forests, parks, and trails are essential to our quality of life. But this legacy requires dedicated funding and strong protection at the State Capitol to endure.
Since 1897, the Connecticut Forest & Park Association (CFPA) has been your voice in Hartford, advancing a conservation agenda that protects these natural resources and helps ensure Connecticut remains an outstanding place to live, work, and enjoy the outdoors.
The Focus for 2026
The 2026 Connecticut General Assembly convenes on February 4 and adjourns on May 6. This legislative session presents a critical opportunity to secure the future of our natural spaces. Our agenda targets key areas where state action can make the biggest impact: ensuring our state parks have the resources they need, championing healthy forest management, and investing in the trails that connect us all. Read the full agenda to see how we’re working to protect the places you love.
View the Full Agenda
Be an Advocate for Your Forests, Parks, and Trails
Lawmakers care about your views and opinions. As a constituent, you have the unique ability to share your concerns about the issues affecting Connecticut’s environment—and be heard. The most effective conservation efforts start with your voice.
Advocacy in Action
Explore our advocacy archive.
- FEBRUARY 26, 2025 — CFPA Gives Testimony in Support of the 2026-7 Biennial Budget Proposal (HB 6864)
- FEBRUARY 2025 — CFPA’s Congressional Appropriations Request and Legislative Priorities
- APRIL 09, 2024 — CFPA Gives Testimony in Opposition of Proposed Conveyance of State Lands (HB 5520, HB 5522 & SB 460)
Our Impact
When our members, volunteers, and advocates speak up, we achieve real, lasting victories for conservation. Your support has made all of this possible.
2023: Greening Our Cities
Secured a new goal to increase urban tree cover by 5% in environmental justice communities and funded 15 new State Park Maintainer positions.
2018: Protecting Public Lands in the State Constitution
Led the charge for a statewide referendum that passed with 85% support, creating powerful new protections for state lands against being sold off without public input.
2017: Creating the "Passport to the Parks"
Championed the landmark program that now generates over $20 million annually for state parks and grants free entry to all Connecticut residents.
2012: Ensuring Resilient Roadside Forests
Chaired the State Vegetation Management Task Force after major storms, leading to new legislation that balanced electric reliability with healthy forests.
2011: Amending CT's Recreational Liability
Drafted legislation and advocated for amendments to CT’s Recreational Liability statutes to protect landowners, including municipalities and municipal entities, from liability for personal injury lawsuits as long as they do not charge a fee for access to the property.
2009: Establishing a National Scenic Trail
Successfully advocated for Congress to designate the New England Trail (NET), which CFPA maintains across 20 towns, as a National Scenic Trail.
