| | | Saratoga Welcomes a New Community Forest
The Open Space Institute (OSI) celebrated the creation of the Graphite Range Community Forest (GRCF) in Saratoga County, which will preserve much-needed green space for recreation in one of New York’s fastest-growing regions. OSI provided critical financial and programmatic leadership to make the GRCF a reality, including initial funding, legal services, and partner coordination. Over the years, OSI has supported the creation of more than two dozen community forests in New York, Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont, conserving more than 40,000 acres for community use and benefit.
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| | | | Major 1,800-Acre Acquisition for Black River Initiative
As part of the visionary Black River Initiative, the Open Space Institute linked the rural town of Andrews with the Black River by acquiring the Weyerhaeuser tract - an 1,800-acre property within walking distance of the town’s main street. The Black River Initiative will protect mature forested wetlands that can absorb flood waters; conserve habitat for endangered wildlife; and beckon outdoor enthusiasts from near and far to the 70-mile-long destination water trail and surrounding communities. |
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| | | | Award for Growing Greenways Plan
The Open Space Institute’s (OSI) visionary effort to connect and improve more than 250 miles of trails in New York’s Orange, Sullivan, and Ulster counties was recently recognized with the American Planning Association’s Award for Leadership in City and Regional Planning. OSI’s “Growing Greenways” plan highlights opportunities to link rural and urban communities, promote off-road transportation, advance equitable access to nature, and more. |
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| | | | “Small But Mighty” Property Acquired in South Carolina
A tranquil refuge on densely populated James Island, South Carolina, the Bradham property was once slated for development. Now, thanks to the Open Space Institute, the land has a new future as a county park. At just 24 acres, the tract boasts a beautiful pond, trails, and much-needed access to the Stono River for fishing, crabbing, and paddling. |
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| | | | New Jersey Greenway Plans Move Forward
The Open Space Institute (OSI), community leaders, and outdoor recreation enthusiasts celebrated as New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy announced the first phase of development for the Northern New Jersey Greenway. After more than a decade of stalled attempts to secure the former rail line, OSI negotiated the acquisition and played a key role in securing funding for the project. Once completed, the Greenway will provide a nine-mile linear park for one of the most densely populated and diverse regions in the nation |
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| | | | Safeguarding Water for 200,000 Maine Residents
Together with the Loon Echo Land Trust, the Open Space Institute (OSI) helped save more than 360 acres of forested property on Sebago Lake, source of drinking water for 200,000 Maine residents. OSI’s Appalachian Landscapes Protection Fund supported the purchase of a conservation easement that permanently secures public access for fishing, hiking, and other recreational activities, while prohibiting development that could negatively impact the pristine lake. |
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| | | | Hudson Highlands Acquisition Supports Clean Water and Trail Connections
The Open Space Institute (OSI) has acquired nearly 170 acres to strengthen trail connections and safeguard sources of clean drinking water in New York’s fast-growing Orange County. The newly protected land has the potential to form an offroad trail connection between Black Rock Forest and Schunnemunk State Park. The property was listed as a priority acquisition in OSI’s Highlands West Trail Connectivity Plan, which highlights opportunities to permanently protect and enhance the region’s landscape. |
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