Founded in 1913 by Alain and May White, the White Memorial Foundation protects about 4,000 acres of wetlands and uplands around Bantam Lake and the Bantam River in Litchfield, Connecticut. Its varied habitats support a rich diversity of wildlife, including 238 recorded bird species, 50 mammals, 35 reptiles and amphibians, and 29 fish. Created to prevent development and preserve the landscape’s natural character, it also promotes education, research, and public recreation through trails, water access, camping, and the White Memorial Conservation Center. Its broader preservation efforts also helped establish two of Connecticut’s first 15 state parks.