Help Protect the Former Candlewood Golf Course Land!
Preserving Scenic Landscape, Wildlife Habitat, and Clean Water
Greenbelt and the Town of Ipswich have an exciting opportunity to permanently protect the former Candlewood Golf Course. Preserving these 26 acres at the corner of Candlewood Road and Essex Road (Route 133) will help safeguard public drinking water, scenic views, and important wildlife habitat along one of the region’s most iconic scenic byways.
The Candlewood property has long been a high conservation priority for Greenbelt and the Town of Ipswich. The property is adjacent to two public drinking water wells and lies within the aquifer recharge area that supplies these wells. Preserving and restoring this land will help filter water entering the aquifer and improve flood mitigation, groundwater recharge, and habitat for vulnerable species.
Conserving this land will:
- Help protect Ipswich’s drinking water
- Expand the regional network of conserved land
- Allow Greenbelt to restore important wildlife habitat
- Provide an opportunity for a new public trail
- Further preserve views along the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway
Vote YES on Article 8 at the October 20 Special Town Meeting in Ipswich!
Meeting Details
- Date: Tuesday, October 20
- Time: 7:00pm
- Location: Ipswich Middle/High School, 134 High Street, Ipswich
Article 8 authorizes the Town of Ipswich to acquire a conservation restriction on Candlewood Road for $850,000, of which $500,000 will come from Ipswich Bond Funds ($9 per household per year for 10 years) and $350,000 from the already-awarded MA Drinking Water Supply Program Grant.
Greenbelt has until the end of November to raise $1,825,000 to conserve this vital property.
| Source | Status | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Ipswich Open Space Bond | Pending | $500,000 |
| MA Drinking Water Supply Program Grant Grant | Awarded | $350,000 |
| Greenbelt Fundraising (from sale of house and private fundraising) | In progress | $975,000 |
| Remaining Funds Needed | Ongoing | $95,000 |
If you would like to discuss gift options, including pledges, gifts of stock, or other donations, please contact Rachel Horgan, Director of Development and Community Engagement, at 978-768-7241 ext.122.
Click here for more ways to give.
Your Gift Can Help Protect 26 Acres along Candlewood Road
Let our Development Staff Assist You
- Rachel Horgan
Director of Development & Community Engagement
978-768-7241 ext. 122 - Anna Fletcher
Membership & Annual Giving Manager
978-768-7241 ext. 110