Greenbelt's land conservation program works across Essex County to conserve land that has scenic, ecological and agricultural significance. Greenbelt acquires land and perpetual conservation restrictions (easements) by gift and purchase. In addition, Greenbelt works closely with municipalities, other nonprofits and state and federal agencies on land conservation projects that mesh with Greenbelt's mission.

Sinc our founding in 1961, we have protected over 12,000 acres of land. We own and manage 4,800 acres of land that comprises our reservation system; we hold over 150 conservation restrictions totaling over 4,600 acres, and we have assisted in conserving 3,000 additional acres.

In keeping with Greenbelt's founding philosophy, we are particularly interested not only in conserving more land, but in building contiguous areas of protected land that are oriented along scenic roads, rivers and streams, wildlife corridors, and trails. To this end we seek to conserve parcels that are adjacent or proximate to existing Greenbelt land or restrictions, or to land that is protected by other nonprofits, communities or agencies. In this way, we hope to focus our energies and resources and ensure that as a region we always have access to excellent outdoor recreational opportunities, clean water, abundant biodiversity, and the beautiful, varied and unique landscape that we all value so highly.