While many local governments want to enhance the quality of life for
their citizens by conserving important natural resources and
providing recreational opportunities, they often lack the resources
to do so, both in terms of funding and expertise. This is where DLC
can help. Our Public Conservation Areas program offers DLC’s expert
assistance to towns, cities and villages interested in acquiring
important open space land for passive, public recreational use. The
goal is to help communities throughout the County create Public
Conservation Areas so the general public will have more chances to
hike, bird watch or just have a picnic.
This program is locally driven, with municipalities identifying
potential projects and then asking DLC to help complete them. For
instance, once a municipality identifies a project, assesses local
support and perhaps even determines the landowner’s willingness to
sell, they can bring DLC in for hands-on assistance.
Initially an appraisal is acquired to determine the fair market
value of the land for every project. DLC and the municipality can
then negotiate with the landowner on price and secure an option to
purchase the land that allows time to raise any necessary funds. If
the municipality requests, DLC can hold a conservation easement on
the property, ensuring the protection of the land. After the
closing, DLC will work with the local government on a site plan,
management plan, and official Public Conservation Area opening, with
an orientation hike to introduce citizens to their new conservation
area.
Town Hall Partnership Program
The Town Hall Partnership Program is aimed at strengthening DLC’s
already positive relationships with local governments throughout
Dutchess County by contributing to the conservation and ecological
success of the communities we serve. Our work with local
municipalities includes attending and participating at board and
committee meetings, assisting with conservation land use planning,
open space and farmland protection efforts, biodiversity and
conservation mapping projects, scenic road initiatives, reviewing
comprehensive plans and zoning regulations and giving presentations
that address a community’s current open space and conservation
needs. The Town Hall Partnership Program gives DLC the opportunity
to work with our municipal partners to achieve sound land-planning
practices throughout Dutchess County.
If you are interested in learning more about DLC’s Municipal
Assistance Programs, please contact us at (845) 677-3002.
