The Connecticut Land Conservation Council has given its first Excellence in Community Engagement Award to the Avalonia Land Conservancy which preserves more than 4,700 aces of land in southeastern Connecticut.

The award acknowledges Avalonia’s commitment to establishing access for people with disabilities in regard to its trails, communication, signage and policy.

“Avalonia is seeking to ensure that the ‘open’ in ‘open space’ means maximum equal opportunity for everyone, regardless of disability, said the council in announcing the award.