On Mar. 29, nearly 250 residents participated in the Wild and Scenic On Tour Film Festival’s movie night, which showcased inspiring examples of environmental stewardship locally and around the globe.
The evening took place at Wilton High School and showcased the successful collaboration of seven local, environmental nonprofits coming together to educate and inspire residents.
In advance of the 10-movie marathon, participants were invited to learn more about these partner organizations, including Wilton Go Green, Wilton Land Trust, Woodcock Nature Center, Trout Unlimited, Norwalk River Valley Trail, Norwalk River Watershed Association and Pollinator Pathway.
The films touched on topics including creating paint colors from polluted streams to fund clean water, allowing spaces in one’s own backyard to grow wild, removing unnecessary structures in streams and rivers for fish and wildlife to prosper, and saving creatures on land that serve as an essential ecosystem for insects and animals.
“The inaugural Wild & Scenic Film Festival in Wilton was an incredible success, showcasing local efforts that are dedicated to outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship,” NRVT Executive Director Andrea Gartner said.
“Coming together with these passionate partners and seeing our community come out for a night of thought-provoking films was inspiring,” Gartner added. “The Norwalk River Valley Trail was proud to be part of this event, and we are excited to return next year to continue building awareness and enthusiasm for our natural spaces.”
Attendee Bob Swider agreed. “It was very enlightening and encouraging at the same time,” he said.
In one evening, sponsorships and sales of tickets and raffles sales raised over $9,000 for these local partners to advance their missions and support sustainable environments in the Wilton community.
Many upcoming events aim to foster similar connectivity and commitment in the community. Wilton residents and surrounding community members are encouraged to take part in and continue the momentum from movie night.
Every event is an opportunity to get educated, inspired and involved in important causes that benefit the health of the community and the planet.
Saturday, May 17, 9 a.m.-Noon: Wilton Go Green Community Shred Day
Fairfield County Bank Parking Lot
Learn more
Saturday, May 3rd, 12-8 p.m.: Woodcock Nature Center Frothy Forage
Learn more
Friday, May 16, 10-11 a.m.: Wilton Land Trust Spring Books and a Blanket Programs
Friday, June 20, 10-11 a.m.: Wilton Land Trust Spring Books and a Blanket Programs
Learn more
Norwalk River Valley Trail
Learn more about getting out on the trails, anytime.
Norwalk River Watershed Association
Learn more about protecting the watershed
Pollinator Pathway
Learn about No Mow May
Trout Unlimited
Participate at an upcoming event
Learn more
More photos of the event can be viewed here (https://photos.app.goo.gl/vb5fgw3DsQD8sDYx6). Thank you to Wilton High School photography student Christopher Gordon.