Biological Diversity Policy

Connecticut does not have a formal biodiversity policy. However, the state has several related policies. It is state policy to "manage harvested and nonharvested wildlife to insure their continued participation in the ecosystem." (Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. 26-107f) In addition, a statute declares that state policy is to "conserve, improve and protect its natural resources." (Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. 22a-1)

Status of Biodiversity Science

Connecticut does not have a coordinated assessment system in place. Instead, the state uses its Natural Diversity database and GAP. The Natural Diversity database contains information on the status and locations of state-listed species. Information on other non-listed species is maintained by the Department of Environmental Protection.

Endangered Species

Connecticut has an endangered species law that covers all species and subspecies of plants and animals. (Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. 26-303 et seq.) Species are listed based on scientific criteria. The law requires agency consultation and the designation of critical habitat, although none has ever been designated. Penalties include cease and desist orders and civil fines of up to $10,000 and/or a jail term of up to one year.

State Agency Management for Biodiversity

State-owned Lands

Few state natural resource agencies plan and manage their lands in a biologically sustainable manner. The impact of all-terrain vehicles on state land is required to be minimized. (Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. 23-26C) In addition, state natural area preserves are required to have management plans that limit fencing and other structures so as not to hinder wildlife travel. (Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. 23-5a-h)

Cooperative Efforts

Some state agencies are required to engage in cooperative efforts to improve land management across ownership boundaries. For example, the state is required to "improve and coordinate state plans, functions, programs and resources" by cooperating with federal and local governments. (Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. 22a-la) A 1995 Multiple Use Rivers Act aims to coordinate resource management among adjacent river communities by creating local river commissions and river management plans.

State Agency Training

This report did not identify any biodiversity training programs for agency staff.

Impact Assessment

Connecticut has a "little NEPA," requiring assessment of major proposed agency impacts on biological resources. (Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. 22a-14 to 20; Conn. Agencies Regs. 22a1a-1 et seq.) In addition to the Connecticut Environmental Policy Act, all water development project proposals are required to address any adverse environmental impacts prior to construction.

Habitat Acquisition

Connecticut has few programs for land acquisition. A Natural Areas Preserves program was established by statute in 1969. (Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. 23-5a-h) However, the program is not managing any property. A Recreation and Natural Heritage Trust Fund uses bond revenues to acquire lands for recreation and wildlife habitat. (Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. 23-73 to 80) Specific levels of funding were not provided.

Private Land Conservation

Connecticut has some private land conservation programs. For example, conservation easements are authorized by statute. (Cone. Gen. Stat. Ann. 47-42a-c) Reduced assessments for property taxes for farmland, open space and managed forests are also authorized. In addition, the purchase of development rights on agricultural lands by the state is permitted by statute. (Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. 22-26aa-ii)

Exotic Species

Connecticut has few laws designed to control the introduction and spread of exotic species. The importation or release of live fish, birds or quadrupeds is prohibited without a permit. (Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. 26-55) Penalties include license suspension and fines ranging from $10 to $200 and/or imprisonment of not more than 60 days. (Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. 26-61, 26-64) For plants, noxious weeds and seeds are regulated. Sale of listed species is prohibited. (Conn. Agencies Regs. 22-59)

Predator or Animal Damage Control Activities

Connecticut has an animal damage control program that operates in conjunction with the federal government. The state deals with mammals while the federal agency focuses on migratory bird problems. Special permits are required to take any species not considered common. In addition, the use of toxins is prohibited by state statute.

Additional Legal Protections for Biodiversity

Though not in the constitution, a state statute declares that there is a public trust in the air, water and other natural resources of the state. (Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. 22a-15)

In addition, the state has a citizen suit provision authorizing actions for pollution, impairment or destruction to the air, water and other natural resources. (Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. 22a-16)

Related Issues

Connecticut utilizes Project WILD. In addition, the state is expected to publish a wildlife viewing guide in 1997.

By statute, the Commissioner of Environmental Protection is required to formulate a statewide environmental plan "for the management and protection of the quality of the environment and the natural resources of the state." (Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. 22a-8)

Connecticut does not currently have a takings law. A bill was not introduced in the 1995 session.

Contacts:

Department of Agriculture
165 Capitol Ave.
Rm. 273, State Office Bldg.
Hartford, CT 06106
203-566-4667

Department of Environmental Protection
79 Elm St.
Hartford, CT 06106-5127
203-424-3400

University of Connecticut
Cooperative Extension System
Dean, College of Agriculture and Natural
Resources
Box U-66
1376 Storrs Rd.
Storrs, CT 06269-4087
203-486-2917

Connecticut ADC State Director
463 West Street
Amherst, MA 01002
413-253-2403