Coogan Farm

Just off the coast of the Atlantic in southern Connecticut, Coogan Farm stands proudly as a community staple. The property’s sweeping views, grassy meadows, and peaceful forests—alive with the sound of songbirds—create a place of solace and inspiration. Its massive stone walls and remnants of early settlements are a connection to local and regional New England history.

Trust for Public Land partnered with the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center (DPNC) to raise over $4 million to purchase the 34-acre farm in 2013, ensuring that it will be protected for generations to come. The land gives the DPNC a place to introduce children and adults to the region’s birds, wildlife, and natural history through its educational programs. The land also links the nature center to the Denison Homestead and Avalonia Land Conservancy’s valuable wildlife habitat in the heart of Mystic, creating a nearly 300-acre preserve with easily accessible trails for hiking, biking, and even cross-country skiing.

In addition to community recreation and environmental education, Coogan Farm also supplies fresh produce for local food pantries. The farm’s “giving garden”—2 acres used to grow seasonal vegetables—is harvested from May to October. The bounty of spinach, tomatoes, sweet peppers, beans, and eggplants is then distributed by United Way to over 90 food pantries in the county.