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 property. Preserving these 26 acres at the corner of Candlewood Road and Essex Road (Route 133) will help safeguard public drinking water and protect important wildlife habitat while expanding the network of conservation land in the region.
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 safeguard Ipswich’s drinking water
- Restore important wildlife habitat
- Expand a regional network of conserved land
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 November 30, 2026 to raise $1,825,000 to conserve this unique property.
| Source | Status | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Ipswich Open Space Bond | Awarded | $500,000 |
| MA Drinking Water Supply Program Grant Grant | Awarded | $350,000 |
| Greenbelt Contribution (from sale of house & private fundraising) | In progress | $975,000 |
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