Earth Sky + Water is drawing fresh attention in Wilton this fall. In an October 5 update, the town highlighted the nature publisher’s move to employee ownership. The change took place in April 2026, so this is a look at a local business milestone rather than a new October sale.
Earth Sky + Water keeps a Wilton connection
The Town of Wilton’s business update places the company in the downtown Riverview Mill building. Its work includes illustrated nature guides, books, posters and greeting cards. Subjects range from shells to birds and trees, connecting a local workplace with the outdoor world.
For residents, that offers another way to get to know the town beyond its event calendar. A business can be part of daily community life even when its products travel far beyond Main Street.
How the employee-owned chapter began
According to the Cooperative Development Institute’s account, founder Steven Lewers wanted the business to continue after his retirement. Employees formed a cooperative and purchased the company. Eight people initially became worker-owners.
The process required more than enthusiasm. The team developed bylaws, worked through a purchase agreement and arranged financing. CDI helped with the transition and connected the group with the Cooperative Fund of the Northeast. Meanwhile, Lewers agreed to help the new owners through the handover.
What recent reporting adds
A September 24 NH Small Business Development Center profile describes the planning behind the purchase. Advisor Ed Miles helped the team strengthen its business plan and understand industry benchmarks. His support continued after the sale.
The profile also explains a practical challenge: employees now share long-range planning while keeping up with their existing work. This detail brings the ownership change down to everyday decisions, from purchasing to vendor relationships.
Follow the story from its sources
First, read the town’s October update for the local connection. Then explore the CDI and NH SBDC accounts for the transition story. Together, they offer a useful introduction to Earth Sky + Water and the people shaping its next chapter.
For another way to connect with the community this weekend, see our Wilton Storybook Walk guide for October 17.
