Momentum Builds for Wenham Conservation Project; Site Walk Scheduled for April 16

This spring, Greenbelt is making a final fundraising push to protect the 125-acre Streeter property in Wenham — also known as “Old Farm” — which features a rich mix of mature forest, wetlands, farmland, and a beaver pond. These natural resources provide critical wildlife habitat and help safeguard a public drinking water supply serving nearly 90,000 people. The property also includes a scenic trail system that will be opened to the public for the first time.

In addition to its significant natural assets, the property contains two historic homes. Greenbelt is working with Historic New England to protect the 1689 main house — listed on the National Register of Historic Places — and its surrounding 15 acres with a Historic Preservation Restriction before selling it to a private buyer. The smaller cottage will also be sold, potentially as an affordable housing option for the community.

To date this project has received funding from the Town of Wenham through the Community Preservation Act (CPA), a Local Acquisitions for Natural Diversity (LAND) grant, and generous support from private donors. With funds from the anticipated house sales included, Greenbelt now has just $85,000 left to raise before the project closes on May 15.

Greenbelt is especially grateful to the Streeter family for their partnership in conserving this land. As dedicated stewards of the property for more than 50 years, their collaboration has been instrumental in ensuring the permanent protection of this treasured landscape.

To share this beautiful property with the public, Greenbelt will host a guided site walk on Thursday, April 16, at 10:00am. The event is free, but space is limited. Please register in advance to reserve a spot and receive parking details.