Open Space Management Plans

What is the Focus?

Municipalities that have recently purchased land for open space can receive assistance with the preparation of management plans for the property. NRCS specialists evaluate the area’s natural resources and document the natural values (such as upland wildlife habitat or water quality renovation). Working with the municipality, NRCS looks at actions that can accommodate intended uses (such as trails for passive recreation or educational uses) while preserving as many of the natural values as possible. The assessment information and management actions are then documented into the plan.

What Does NRCS Offer?

Resource inventories, analysis, and plan reports.

What is an Example of an Open Space Management Plan?

TOLLAND, CT – The Town of Tolland acquired a 65.3 acre parcel of land (Shafron Property) that abuts Connecticut Water Company land. NRCS was asked to become involved in the preparation of a stewardship plan for the property. NRCS staff conducted field reviews and collected resource information from the area including watershed and hydrologic descriptions, animal resources, cultural resources, threatened species, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data. The connection of property to wildlife corridors was examined. After the data was analyzed, a report was compiled using the findings and a description of alternatives for the maintenance and management of the property.

Who are the Partners?

• Town of Tolland

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