Land Conservation: Climate Strategy
Climate Prioritization
Greenbelt is using the latest climate data to evaluate land conservation projects. We use mapping technology to guide strategic investments in climate resilient parcels and to work with municipalities and partners to inform open space planning.
This work is generously funded by the Land Trust Alliance, Mass Office of Coastal Zone Management, New England Biolabs Foundation, and the Towards Sustainability Foundation.
Conservation Prioritization
In 2019, Greenbelt undertook an ambitious project to identify and prioritize land parcels across Essex County that can absorb floodwater, safeguard drinking water, cool urban heat islands, support biodiversity in a warming climate, and protect both habitat and agriculture. Beyond integrating these findings into our own conservation efforts, we collaborate with municipal partners to create maps for open space planning, municipal vulnerability assessments, and master plans.
Kamon Farm
Kamon Farm in Ipswich is a public reservation with scenic hayfields and wooded trails, but its true value lies in its role in inland flood mitigation and drinking water protection. The farm’s wooded wetlands capture, store, and filter rainwater and snowmelt, allowing it to infiltrate the ground and remain on the land, rather than running off into streets and homes where it could cause flood damage.
Artichoke River Woods
Artichoke River Woods in West Newbury safeguards a crucial drinking water resource for both the City of Newburyport and the Town of West Newbury. By preserving the forest cover instead of clearing the land for homes, lawns, and roadways, the property continues to offer long-term community benefits, particularly in protecting the local water supply.
Backshore
Gloucester’s Back Shore showcases the breathtaking beauty of Cape Ann, offering stunning views of its rugged coastline. By preserving this area in its natural state, we help mitigate the impacts of severe weather events, providing spaces where storm surges can flow in and out with minimal damage to infrastructure.
Climate Resilience Webinar
In 2020, Greenbelt shared the findings of our analysis to prioritize parcels for flood mitigation, urban cooling, natural resilience, and drinking water protection. We engaged with municipal and land trust staff to explore how these results can inform planning efforts and support grant funding opportunities.