The Loss of a Community Asset
A local and national treasure flows through our town—the Wild and Scenic-designated Farmington River—which every resident should be able to enjoy.
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Since 2001, residents of all abilities have enjoyed the accessible fishing pier at the Farmington Land Trust’s Douglass-Mount property, located directly off the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail in Unionville.
Unfortunately, the changing path of the river caused wear and tear on the fishing pier and it was removed in September 2025.
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As a result, people with physical disabilities can no longer access this unique spot. It is FLT’s ethos to make sure everyone has access to the beauty and benefits of nature.
Original accessible pier
Original pier under water, prior to removal
Removal of original pier. Fall 2025
Original accessible pier
A Vision to Restore River Access for All
Restored riverbank
Remediation of riverbank
Restored riverbank
Since removing the pier, FLT has restored the riverbank to its natural state, but our work doesn’t end there.
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To ensure that people of all abilities have safe, easy access to the river for decades to come, FLT is partnering with DEEP, the Farmington River Watershed Association, the Lower Farmington River and Salmon Brook Wild and Scenic organization, the National Parks Service, New Horizons Village, and the Town of Farmington to:
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Build a new 80-foot accessible pier and viewing platform to ADA standards
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Add native plants along the riverbank for beautification, habitat, and resiliency against storms
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Improve access to this serene spot for resting, fishing, and enjoying the view
Help us complete this project​
This project will be funded by grants and the generosity of our community. It is scheduled to be completed by the Fall 2026. Please make a donation today.
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Right now, you can double your impact!
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Thanks to the generosity of the Richard P. Garmany Fund, all donations will be matched up to $50,000!​​​​
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The Cate Grady-Benson
Honorary Fund:
Restoring River Access for All
After four years of exemplary leadership and community impact, Cate Grady-Benson retired as FLT’s executive director on June 30.​ She will continue to lead the effort to transform the Douglass-Mount parcel with a new pier and viewing platform accessible by people of all abilities.
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You can help FLT complete this project for the Farmington community by making a donation in Cate’s honor today.
Our Community Partners & Collaborators
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We are grateful to our community partners for their vision and commitment to supporting this project, which will benefit the entire Farmington community: The Richard P. Garmany Fund, Farmington Community Chest, Ion Bank, Farmington River Watershed Association and Lower Farmington and Salmon Brook Wild & Scenic organization.