Help Greenbelt protect 32 acres of rare wildlife habitat, farmland and forested uplands in West Newbury!
Greenbelt has until May 2024 to raise $100,000 to complete funding for the protection of Evergreen Farm.
Previously a beloved local Christmas tree farm, Evergreen Farm went on the market last summer after the owner passed away. Greenbelt was able to secure a contract to purchase and
protect the property, while keeping the farm intact.
Evergreen Farm will be protected using two mechanisms.
Shortly after Greenbelt acquires the property, 18+/- acres (approximately half of the property) will be sold to the Massachusetts Dept. of Fish & Game - MassWildlife, which will combine
this land with their adjacent Crane Pond Wildlife Management Area and manage it forever as habitat.
The remaining 18+/- acres will be sold to a private buyer, subject to a 14-acre +/- conservation restriction acquired jointly by the Town of West Newbury and Greenbelt.
The 4+/- acres that will remain unrestricted contain the existing residence and barn.
Ensures the majority of farmland at Evergreen Farm can continue to be farmed
Protect 18 acres as wildlife habitat for critically endangered Blanding’s Turtle
Thanks to a generous neighbor, protect a total of 36 acres and help to catalyze additional conservation in the area
Financing
West Newbury residents generously authorized the use of $175,000 in Community Preservation Act funds toward the CR purchase at the Fall 2023 Town Meeting.
Funding Sources:
MA Dept. of Fish and Game, Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (DFG): $525,000 (Secured)]