Our Rossetti Beach Natural Area in Colchester is home to a documented population of the state-endangered Beach Heather, a low-growing shrub featuring bright yellow flowers that bloom from May through July.

According to Vermont State Botanist Bob Popp, the Beach Heather population at Rossetti Beach Natural Area is one of only four known populations in Vermont. These plants, which are often associated with coastal sand dunes, were left behind when the Champlain Sea retreated 10,000 years ago.

Last November, under the direction of the State Botanist, a restoration effort was launched to improve the Beach Heather habitat by removing tree limbs overshadowing the population.