Natural resource condition assessment: Weir Farm National Historic Site

Tierney, Geri; Gibbs, James

This Natural Resource Condition Assessment (NRCA) evaluates current conditions and trends for a subset of natural resource indicators and identifies critical data gaps for Weir Farm National Historic Site (WEFA). The resources and indicators included herein reflect the park’s resource setting, status of resource stewardship planning and science, and availability of data and expertise to assess current conditions for a variety of potential indicators. The goal of this report is to provide clear, credible, integrative reporting to assist and inform park managers, stake-holders and the public. Established in 1990, the park preserves a significant site of American Impressionism and maintains a setting of artistic expression, while offering opportunities for inspiration and education. The 28-ha (68-ac) park, located in southwestern Connecticut, preserves about a quarter of the historic farm and woodlot that was the summer home and workplace of J. Alden Weir (1852-1919), a pioneer of the Impressionist tradition in American art. These rolling hills, fields and forest, stone walls, rock outcrops, streams and pond have provided inspiration to artists for more than a century, and continue to do so in the present day. Lying within a network of protected areas extending west and east of the park, WEFA provides valuable forest, wetland and pond habitat within a suburban residential landscape. Species of conservation interest documented in the park include five bat species, one turtle, and several bird species. Using the NPS Vital Signs Indicator Framework, 23 Vital Signs of natural resource condition were selected for assessment and reporting herein. Assessment points were established to distinguish between acceptable or desired conditions (i.e., good condition) and those that warrant moderate concern or significant concern. These assessment points were derived from knowledge of ecological integrity, regulatory or program standards, park management goals, historical data or other sources. Key findings and recommendations for WEFA are summarized below by resource category.

Natural resource condition assessment: Weir Farm National Historic Site

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