Massachusetts Open Space and Recreation Plans

All grants are partnerships between state and local agencies and are based on recommendations the applicant community makes independently in its Open Space and Recreation Plan prepared by volunteer groups or by consultants with help from DCS. DCS approved plans are an eligibility requirement for participation in the grant programs. However, communities often prepare these plans regardless of the availability of grant assistance.

The factors that affect open space are identified and examined during the planning process, and strategies the community may use to protect and enjoy its character, natural resources and open spaces are written. Protecting open space can provide profound economic benefits by helping to avoid the costly mistakes of misusing or overwhelming available resources. An open space and recreation plan is a blueprint for how to obtain the benefits of development without losing valued environmental assets. Open Space Planning Requirements, a companion workbook, and technical assistance are available from DCS.

ADDITIONAL PLANNING RESOURCES
The Manomet Center for Conservation Sciences is dedicated to conserving natural resources for the benefit of wildlife and human populations. Through research and collaboration, Manomet builds science-based, cooperative solutions to environmental problems. A well-prepared Open Space and Recreation Plan combines natural resources information with local values and vision to produce a document that benefits a community's residents, its wildlife, and the resources upon which they both depend. Manomet prepared Planning for Wildlife to help make this happen.

Contact:

Melissa Cryan
(617) 626-1171
melissa.cryan@state.ma.us