At Natural Lands, we’re all about open space. But we also recognize that development isn’t inherently “bad” and that vibrant communities expand and change. So we’re here to help municipal leaders make smart, proactive decisions today so their towns can green as they grow tomorrow.
Each time land is developed, there is an opportunity to add to community open space. All that’s needed are a few straightforward amendments to existing municipal codes. Our ground-breaking Growing Greener: Conservation by Design approach helps save an average of 62% of land in new developments as open space.
Watch this brief video to learn more.
As the proverb goes, “He who fails to plan, plans to fail.” Effective conservation efforts depend on reliable, in-depth information about a community’s resources and growth patterns. Natural Lands offers a wide range of planning and mapping services to help municipal leaders make informed decisions about their open space investments.
Contrary to the old adage, “let nature take its course,” natural areas need help to become—and remain—places where people, plants, and wildlife can thrive. With more than 23,000 acres of our own land, we’re experts in cost-saving and sustainable methods to manage open space. But we also recognize that caring for land is more than just pulling weeds; it’s also about finding ways to connect people to the outdoors
Green spaces are essential for healthy, thriving communities. More than just pretty places, they are productive assets that have significant economic value. Natural areas increase our home values, clean the air we breathe and the water we drink, and improve our health and state of mind.
Natural Lands is pleased to administer the PECO Green Region Open Space Program. Recognizing that open space in our communities is a crucial element of the quality of our lives, the PECO program awards grants for southeastern Pennsylvania municipal efforts to preserve, protect, and improve open spaces.
Interested in learning more? Send a message to Ann, our Senior Director of Community Planning.