The Ottauquechee River Riparian Habitat

The Woodstock History Center property, which abuts the Ottauquechee River, has been subject to several floods in recent times. Tropical Storm Irene in 2011 decimated the lower part of our property. Riprap (stones), fill, landscaping fabric, and some trees were used to “repair” the damage. Since that time, we have left the bank to rewild itself and have monitored it for invasive species like Japanese Knotweed. In 2019 and 2023, we suffered other flood events. A large portion of the riprap was carried away. The bushes and trees helped to protect the rest of the bank. Lesson learned, we’ve decided to expand the rewilding and restoration of our portion of the riparian habitat.

In collaboration with the Ottauquechee Natural Resources Conservation District, Connecticut River Conservancy, and Redstart with grant support from Greater Upper Valley Trout Unlimited, we planted 56 native trees and bushes along the riparian zone or habitat.  A riparian habitat or zone is the interface between land and fresh water. Riparian habitats are crucial to local ecosystems as they support a diverse range of plant and animal life, regulate water quality, and help stabilize stream banks. This project will protect and stabilize our 50’ wide buffer along the Ottauquechee River. It will also provide flood resilience as well as pollinator habitat as it becomes an un-mowed natural area.

The following is a list of native trees and bushes that were planted on May 28, 2025.

Silver Maple, 5; CottonWood, 5; Sycamore, 5; White Oak, 5; Red Oak, 5; Choke Cherry, 10; Nannyberry, 11; Highbush Cranberry, 10

The Georgina Williamson Memorial Garden- Lilac Hedge & Benches

Established in 2015, this garden hedge was given in memory of Georgina Williamson. For many years, Georgina held her annual lilac party at her house, the Three Gables, on The Green. This is a nice place to sit and look at Mt. Tom and the Ottauquechee River.

The Dana Emmons Crab Tree

This tree was given in honor of Dana Emmons by The New Century Club in 2007. Dana was highly involved at the Woodstock Historical Society (now Woodstock History Center) and was descended from the Dana family.