Evergreen Farm

In 2024, Greenbelt successfully conserved 32 acres of vital wildlife habitat, farmland, and forested uplands, collectively known as Evergreen Farm, in West Newbury.

Once a beloved local Christmas tree farm, Greenbelt acquired the property following its owner's passing, securing its conservation and preserving its legacy as a working farm. This initiative also played a key role in protecting the habitat of the critically endangered Blanding’s Turtle.

In support of this initiative, West Newbury residents voted at the Fall 2023 Town Meeting to approve funding for the Conservation Restriction purchase. Additionally, the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game, Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, awarded a grant, and Greenbelt raised additional support through private contributions.

After acquiring the property, Greenbelt sold approximately 18 acres to MassWildlife. This land was incorporated into the adjacent Crane Pond Wildlife Management Area and is now managed as protected habitat. The remaining 18 acres was sold to a private buyer, subject to a conservation restriction covering roughly 14 acres. This restriction, jointly acquired by the Town of West Newbury and Greenbelt, ensures that the land will be permanently preserved from development.