Earlier this month, Greenbelt successfully purchased 330 acres in Gloucester and Manchester, marking the completion of the DeNormandie Woods/Long Hill conservation campaign. This acquisition safeguards vital natural habitats, a well-established trail network, and essential watershed lands, ensuring they will remain preserved and protected from development — now and for generations to come.
"This conservation effort spans decades, and it has been incredibly rewarding to see all the pieces finally fall into place over the past year,” says Greenbelt President Chris LaPointe. "Opportunities to preserve such a vast and ecologically rich landscape in this region are becoming increasingly rare, making this a significant win for the community.”
The DeNormandie Woods conservation campaign also included Long Hill and links together City of Gloucester drinking water supply land, conservation land owned by the Town of Manchester, and parcels owned by Greenbelt and Manchester Essex Conservation Trust. It total, the protected forestland covers more than 1,400 acres.
"Conserving this land was truly a team effort, and we are deeply grateful to the many committed citizens, partner organizations, and donors who, over the years, have recognized its importance and played a vital role in making its preservation possible," adds Chris.
With support from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Manchester Community Preservation Act funds, the Manchester Essex Conservation Trust, foundation grants, and numerous generous private donors, Greenbelt acquired the DeNormandie/Long Hill property for $3 million.
In the coming months, Greenbelt will finalize conservation restrictions on the DeNormandie Woods property associated with this project. As warmer weather approaches, the Greenbelt team will also begin mapping trails, designing wayfinding signage, and adding the property to the GreenbeltGo trails app.
This spring, a series of free guided public walks will be offered at the DeNormandie site, providing an opportunity for community members to explore and learn more about the property. Stay tuned for details!